Abstract
Parental knowledge regarding the role of moisturizers in restoring the skin barrier, as well as regular and long-term use of moisturizers, is critical in the treatment of infantile eczema and the prevention of relapse.The parents of children with eczema were enrolled in this study. Their knowledge of the role, use, and effect of moisturizers on their children, as well as their concerns regarding moisturizers were surveyed.A total of 350 parents were enrolled in this study. Two hundred fifty-two parents (72%) knew that eczema requires moisturizers to restore the skin barrier. Among these 252 parents, 175 parents (50.0%) knew that moisturizers can restore the skin barrier. Only 27 parents (27/175, 15.4%) of them knew that moisturizers can improve eczema. Overall, 69.4% used moisturizers; of these, 75.3% used only moisturizers on the face, 87.2% on dry areas of face and other body parts, and only 6.6% on the entire body. Furthermore, 13.2% used topical moisturizers in the long-term; 62.6% used moisturizers 1 to 2 times per day, while 5.4% used moisturizers once every few days. A total of 80.7% discontinued moisturizers immediately after improvement in dryness, and 75.3% reported skin dryness despite moisturizer usage. Among parents of children who used moisturizers, 16.5% were worried about the side effects of moisturizers.Despite a fair level of knowledge about moisturizers, parents of children with eczema are using them inadequately. Pediatrician should be more patient to educate parents the information on the importance of moisturizers for the improvement of eczema and prevention of recurrence.