The best lubricant is also the greasiest. Patients can choose which moisturizer works best for them. Infants and children tolerate petroleum jelly, but adults are usually unwilling to use such a thick, greasy preparation. Using a moisturizing soap is recommend. Methods of corticosteroid delivery Ointments retain the most water in skin while delivering the medication with a minimum of potentially irritating additives or preservatives.
Many patients find the greasy nature of ointments difficult to tolerate.
Lotions are much thinner but trap less water in the skin than ointments. They are particularly useful on hair-bearing areas. As the lesions begin to dry, apply a topical steroid. To control itching, many dermatologists place patients on an antihistamine, an adjunct to education, lubrication, and corticosteroids. The sedative effects may be more beneficial than its antipruritic properties.