Abstract
This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows: To assess the effect of topical application of emollients on the incidence of invasive infection in preterm or low birth weight infants in low‐ or middle‐income countries. Subgroup analyses are planned based on the following population groups: 1. Trials where participants were from communities where more than 20% of mothers are HIV sero‐positive at antenatal screening versus communities where maternal HIV infection was less prevalent. 2. Trials where participants were predominantly (more than 80%) cared for within a health care facility versus trials where most infants were cared for at home.