1.
bath soaks: temperature should be lukewarm, not hot; limit to 20-30 minutes; oils may make tub slippery
2.
creams: water-based, helps to retain water; cosmetically appealing; in high humidity environments; easily washed off. May contain preservatives
3.
emulsions: water-in-oil preparations that are less occlusive than ointments
4.
fixed: unna's boot (zinc oxide gelatin boot) proper application will aid in decreasing edema; leave the dressing in place for one week, then remove by soaking in warm water
5.
gels: becomes liquid on contact; cosmetically appealing; avoid on acutely inflamed skin because alcohol base may cause stinging
6.
lotion: cools and dries as it evaporates: useful for treating moist or pruritic skin
7.
ointments: oil-based; helps retain water for hydration; avoid use in exudative , infected lesions; may be greasy; complications include folliculitis, maceration, and miliaria. Do no contain preservatives
8.
pastes: less greasy than ointments, with some drying action; good as a protective barrier
9.
powder: promotes drying; increases surface area; decreases maceration and moisture; avoid in open wounds
10.
wet dressings; closed: same as for open, with plastic cover (saran wrap), retains heat and causes maceration
11.
wet dressings; open: apply 6-8 layers of gauze or a handkercheif, applied soaking wet, TID for 15 minutes/session. anti-inflammatory action and vasoconstriction aid in decreased edema and crust removal; evaporation and cooling offer relief of pruritus