Dry skin
Eczema and psoriasis
General questions
Dry skin
What’s the ideal temperature for my bath water?
Your bath shouldn’t be more than 36°C – any hotter and it could dry your skin. An occasional warm bath can be beneficial though, especially if you use a bath oil.
Will the contraceptive pill affect my skin?
As the pill reduces sebum production, you could notice a difference, especially if you’re prone to dry skin. If this does happen, speak to your doctor, who’ll advise you of the best remedy.
What influence does nicotine have on my skin?
Each cigarette loads your skin with around 4,000 extra dirt particles. Smoking’s also known to cause premature aging and wrinkles.
What’s the best way to treat older dry skin?
As you get older, your skin can lose its ability to retain moisture. Following a good daily skincare regime, using moisturising creams, lotions, soaps and shower creams, can help keep your skin supple.
Eczema and psoriasis
Are psoriasis or eczema contagious?
No, neither of these skin conditions can be caught from another person as they’re passed on genetically. However, what’s inherited isn’t the condition itself but the pre-disposition to develop it during your lifetime.
How often can I take a bath if I have either of these conditions?
Try not to take a bath too often as it can aggravate itching, especially if it’s too hot. If you do, add a moisturising bath oil to the water.
Can I take part in sports if I have eczema or psoriasis?
Yes you can, but take a lukewarm shower straight afterwards as sweat can irritate your skin. Using a skincare cream or body lotion can also help. Swimming is particularly helpful, especially in saltwater, as this can have a healing effect on your skin (too much chlorine can make your skin dry).
What sort of clothes should I wear?
Some clothes can trigger unbearable itching when it rubs against the skin, especially anything made from wool or synthetic materials. The best materials are smooth and soft cottons as they don’t irritate your skin.
General questions
Where can I buy E45?
You can buy E45 products online from www.boots.com or www.pharmacy2u.co.uk. E45 is available throughout the UK, Republic of Ireland (through pharmacies and Boots), South Africa and New Zealand. It’s also sold under the name Balneum in Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
Why does E45 contain lanolin?
Lanolin is a natural oil derived from sheep’s wool. E45 Cream* and E45 Lotion contains Medilan(TM), an ultra-purified, hypoallergenic form of lanolin, which has excellent moisturising abilities. It’s also highly unusual to have any kind of reaction to Medilan.
Can I wear jewellery if I’ve got problem skin?
Some jewellery can trigger an allergic reaction and contact dermatitis, particularly if it contains nickel. For this reason, it’s best to wear nickel-free fashion jewellery or high-carat yellow gold.
*Always read the label
