Best Emollient for Eczema
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Best Emollient for Eczema (BEE) trial: a randomised trial comparing the effectiveness of four commonly prescribed emollients for children with eczema
IRAS ID
214900
Contact name
Matthew Ridd
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bristol
Eudract number
2017-000688-34
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 4 months, 0 days
Research summary
Eczema is a common childhood condition where the skin is dry and itchy. It is usually diagnosed in the first two years of life and in the UK most children are treated by their GP. Moisturisers (emollients) are the main treatment for eczema, but there are many types and we do not know whether one is better than another. This study aims to improve the treatment of childhood eczema by providing evidence to help clinicians and carers/patients decide which emollient to try first.\n\nWe will investigate the effectiveness and acceptability of the main types of emollients - lotion, cream, gel and ointment - in 520 children with eczema recruited from their GP surgery. Participants will be asked to use one of the emollients for at least 16 weeks, but we will follow them up for 52 weeks. This means we can assess longer-term use and effectiveness. \n\nOur main question of which emollient works best will be answered by asking parents/carers to regularly assess and record their child’s eczema symptoms. We will also visually assess eczema severity and collect data on: daily use of emollients and steroids; acceptability and satisfaction with the emollient; quality of life of the child; the impact of the condition on the family; and costs to the NHS and family. We will do this by parent-completed questionnaires and examining medical records. To better understand how emollients are used, we will interview some families to find out how they make judgements about ease of use, what promotes or discourages usage, and perceptions of emollient effectiveness and acceptability.
Research Summary
In summary
All four types of moisturisers are equally effective but satisfaction with the type of moisturiser prescribed is unique to each user. Therefore, it is important that parents and older children can choose from a range of moisturiser types to find one that best suits them.
Our results emphasised the need for health professionals to help parents and children by making them aware of all the options available. Choosing a moisturiser may involve balancing how well a moisturiser works with practicalities such as how easy it is to use, how often application is needed and whether it comes in a bottle, pump or tub.Summary of Results
The study highlighted the importance of parents understanding of the purpose of moisturisers, the different types available and how to use them (for example, how they fit in with other treatments).
Parents and children should be encouraged to give their moisturiser a sufficient “trial period” of at least two weeks unless there are any major problems with a moisturiser.REC name
South West - Central Bristol Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/SW/0089
Date of REC Opinion
12 Jun 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion