Doublebase

Doublebase is an emollient used to treat dry skin. Emollients play a crucial role in managing dry skin conditions such as eczema by keeping your skin moisturised and hydrated. They also help to stop germs from entering and prevent water loss from your skin's surface.

Atopic eczema is the most common form of eczema, affecting about 2-10% of adults worldwide. Symptoms include dry skin, swelling, and itching, which can become more severe if left untreated. It can sometimes lead to infections as well. Discoid eczema is another type that has similar symptoms to atopic eczema. However, the key difference is that discoid eczema features small, coin-shaped patches that can grow into larger areas over time.

Dyshidrotic eczema is a bit different from other types. While it shares many of the same symptoms, it is characterised by blisters forming on the skin. These blisters may contain pus and, if they burst, they can lead to infections spreading to other parts of your body.

Doublebase has two active ingredients: liquid paraffin and isopropyl myristate. Together, these ingredients create a protective layer on your skin, which helps stop water from escaping and keeps your skin moisturised. It also shields you from allergens and germs.

Additionally, the extra moisture can help strengthen and repair your skin barrier, which in turn reduces inflammation.

While glycerol isn't an active ingredient, it helps to keep moisture in your skin and minimise water loss. Using Doublebase regularly can also make your skin feel softer and more flexible.

There are a few different Doublebase products, such as Doublebase gel and Doublebase Dayleve gel. They both have the same active ingredients, but the key difference is that Doublebase Dayleve gel has more oils and glycerol. It also includes a special ingredient called povidone, which helps lock in the oils and water in your skin. This makes it more hydrating and moisturising. Plus, it lasts longer than Doublebase gel, so you don't need to apply Doublebase Dayleve as often.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that Doublebase is an effective emollient. In one particular study, 18 patients who used Doublebase noticed a reduction in water loss and an improvement in their skin hydration. It also outperformed other emollients, such as Diprobase and Ultrabase.

Another study involving 99 participants found that none of them experienced irritation. A third study showed it didn't lead to severe allergic reactions, with just one out of 74 participants having a mild reaction.

For mild eczema, using emollients might be enough to manage symptoms such as dry skin, itching, and redness. However, if your eczema is more severe, you will probably need steroid treatment.

Steroids are medicines that reduce inflammation by stopping certain cells from causing swelling and redness. There are various types of steroids with different strengths. For example, Dermovate is a strong steroid, while hydrocortisone is a mild one. Steroids are available in different forms, such as ointments, creams, and shampoos, with shampoos being particularly useful for treating eczema on the scalp.

If your eczema gets infected, your doctor might prescribe antibiotics in the form of tablets or creams. Fucidin H is a cream that contains two active ingredients: fusidic acid, which is an antibiotic, and hydrocortisone acetate, a steroid. This combination helps treat inflammation that is also infected.

Yes, you can buy Doublebase over the counter, but only from a registered pharmacy. This allows the pharmacist to ensure it's safe and appropriate for you.