Nappy creams aren’t the first thing that pops into people’s heads when it comes to skincare. But there are actually more nappy cream uses than you might think.
At the start of Spring 2015, a Darwin labour hire company was reported to be investing in a nappy cream. A labour hire company! This was in an effort to protect their workers from the effects of acidic and sticky mango sap, during the top end’s harvesting season1.
So what is a nappy cream? A nappy cream is a topical product used to place a physical barrier between the skin and contaminants that may irritate the skin. Some people’s skin frequently undergoes exposure to mechanical, infective, and environmental stresses, leading to dermatological problems or the aggravation of pre-existing skin conditions. People most susceptible are usually those that come in constant contact with water, soap or other irritants. Nappy creams are usually recommended to sufferers of bedsores, people with stomas, athletes that suffer from chafing and people that already have traumatised skin.
5 Nappy Cream uses:
Basic household duties like bathing the kids, washing dishes and using household cleaning products can leave your hands dry, irritated and uncomfortable.
Wearing certain clothing materials or even your favourite piece of jewellery can also irritate skin.
To protect areas around the hair line when you are having your hair dyed or dry areas like heels and elbows if you get a spray tan.
When out running to avoid chafing.
At work, especially if you come in constant contact with water or other irritants. Occupational dermatitis is actually a very common occurrence in certain professions like hairdressers and nurses.
Some things to look out for in a nappy cream are Silicone and Glycerin. Silicone has proven water repellent properties, and when properly formulated, silicone is non-irritating to the skin and has protective benefits; that’s why it has been used after trauma, surgery and skin grafting to promote suppleness and freedom of movement.
The key ingredient, Dimethicone is a silicone polymer and is chemically inert. This means it is one of the safest ingredients to use as a barrier agent when it comes to skin. Also look out for Glycerin in the formulation, which provides a moisturising base to help rehydrate skin and prevent moisture loss.
If you suspect you have symptoms of Occupational Dermatitis please seek professional medical advice.