Complete Emollient Therapy
What is Complete Emollient Therapy?
Complete Emollient Therapy or CET is a way of keeping your skin as moisturised as possible at all times by using a combination of products liberally and frequently.
A Complete Emollient Therapy regime help to support your skin’s natural barrier, keeping moisture in and irritants out, all day and every day. Replacing drying soaps with emollient-based cleansers and regularly applying lots of emollient creams helps to keep skin soft and supple.
What do I need for a Complete Emollient Therapy?
A standard CET regime would include an emollient-based cleanser or soap substitute, with regular application of creams or ointments throughout the day.
A cream is a soft moisturiser that you can apply any time, all over the body. Ointments are even better at trapping moisture in the skin than creams, but some people find that they can feel a bit thick and greasy and prefer to use them at night.
How much emollient should I use?
Use as much emollient cream or ointment as you need to cover the whole affected area of skin, and re-apply throughout the day when convenient. Many people apply creams after their morning shower and again before bed, with as many extra doses in between as they need to feel comfortable.
If you use too much emollient, simply wipe off the excess with a tissue - it's better to use too much than not enough.
How long should I follow a Complete Emollient Therapy regime?
Complete Emollient Therapy is a long-term skin treatment, and can be maintained for as long as required. It is important not to suddenly stop your CET regime once your symptoms seem to be improving, as they can quickly get worse again.
