Oilatum (Junior).
Posted by JP on 20 February, 2008
Oilatum bath formula and junior bath formula both contain light liquid paraffin. It works by providing a layer of oil on the surface of the skin to prevent water evaporating from the skin surface.
Dry skin results from lack of water in the outer layer of skin cells known as the stratum corneum. When this layer becomes dehydrated it loses its flexibility and becomes cracked, scaly and sometimes itchy. The stratum corneum contains natural water-holding substances that retain water seeping up from the deeper layers of the skin, and water is also normally retained in the stratum corneum by a surface film of natural oil (sebum) and broken-down skin cells, which slow down evaporation of water from the skin surface.
Moisturising bath oils and shower gels are useful for dry skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis, which get worse when the skin is allowed to dry out. Used regularly they help restore the skin’s smoothness, softness and flexibility by replacing lost moisture and helping the skin retain moisture. This helps reduce scaling, redness and itching.
The oil can be added to the bath water or applied directly to wet skin instead of soap when washing or taking a shower. After washing the skin should be patted rather than rubbed dry to avoid rubbing off the Oilatum.
In conditions such as eczema, using moisturisers and moisturising bath oils or shower gels regularly, even once the skin has improved, can help prevent flare-ups.
Read more on Oilatum here.
