Soap is the most popular detergent, but synthetic detergents are also used. However, acute irritated, weeping, or oozing lesions are most comfortably cleansed with only water or isotonic saline. Various ingredients often are added to detergents and other skin preparations to enhance or provide certain properties. For example, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or tar extracts may be added to shampoo for antidandruff action. Water is the principal solvent for cleansing.
Powders dry macerated skin and reduce friction by absorbing moisture.
However, some powders tend to clump and can be irritating if they become moist. Talc is often better than cornstarch, which may promote fungal growth. Powders may be incorporated into protective creams, ointments, and lotions. Collodion and other films provide a flexible or semirigid continuous coating. Hydrophilic polymers can be applied with a gauze cover.