Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Moisturization and Skin Hydration Study

This study aims to find the most effective and preferred way for young people with eczema (atopic dermatitis) to moisturise. While it’s known that moisturising after bathing is good for hydration, there's debate about the exact timing. We're investigating if applying moisturiser while still in the shower or bath is better than applying it after towel-drying. We'll look at how each method affects eczema severity, itching, and skin hydration. Participants will try one method for a month and the other for a month, then tell us which they prefer and how their skin feels.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of British Columbia

Enrolment target

Start

01 Dec 2025

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2026

Atopic Dermatitis (AD)Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

What is this study about?

If you have eczema, you'll know how important it is to keep your skin moisturised. Many doctors suggest putting on moisturiser right after you bathe. However, there are different ideas about whether it's best to put it on while you're still a bit damp in the shower or bath, or after you've dried off with a towel.

This study is for young people aged 12 to 18 who have eczema. We want to find out which of these two ways of moisturising works best for them. We'll be looking at things like how much the eczema improves, whether it helps with itching, and how well the skin stays hydrated. We also want to know which method participants prefer, as comfort and ease of use are important.

By comparing these two methods carefully, we hope to give clearer advice in the future on the most helpful and enjoyable way for young people with eczema to moisturise their skin. Your feedback and measurements will be really valuable in helping us understand this better.

Key takeaways

This study compares two ways of moisturising for young people with eczema.
It checks if putting moisturiser on in the shower/bath or after drying works best.
Participants are aged 12-18 with an eczema diagnosis.
The study lasts two months, with a different moisturising method each month.
It aims to find out which method is preferred and better for skin hydration and itching.
Your input could help improve eczema care for others.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for young people aged between 12 and 18 years old who have been diagnosed with eczema. You need to be able to bathe by yourself and understand and speak English to fill out the questionnaires.

You cannot take part if you have used steroid creams (like topical corticosteroids) on your arms, specifically between one inch above your wrist and one inch below your elbow, within the month leading up to the study and during the study itself. You also can't join if you know you're allergic to the specific moisturiser we'll be providing (called Cerave Moisturizing Cream).

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I am between 12 and 18 years old.
I have been told by a doctor that I have eczema.
I can bathe by myself.
I can understand and speak English well enough to fill in forms.
I have not used steroid creams on my forearms (between wrist and elbow) in the last month, and I won't during the study.
I am not allergic to Cerave Moisturizing Cream.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to join this study, you'll be asked to try out two different moisturising routines. For one month, you'll apply your moisturiser while you're still in the shower or bath. For another month, you'll apply it after you've dried yourself with a towel. The study will last for a total of two months.

Throughout the study, you'll be given the specific moisturiser to use. You'll also need to fill out some questionnaires about which moisturising technique you prefer, how your skin feels, and how much your skin is itching. Researchers will also measure how hydrated your skin is using a special device called a Corneometer® CM825.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially help you find a more effective and convenient way to manage your eczema. Your skin's hydration and eczema symptoms will be regularly monitored, which could provide you with useful insights. The main risk is a possible allergic reaction to the provided moisturiser, though participants with known allergies to it will be excluded. You might also find one moisturising method less comfortable or convenient than the other. Remember, you can choose to stop participating in the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

BC Children's Hospital
Verified postcode
Vancouver, Canada

Common questions

What kind of moisturiser will I use?

You will be provided with a specific cream called Cerave Moisturizing Cream for the study.

How long will the study last?

The study will last for two months in total, with one month for each moisturising method.

Will I have to pay for anything?

No, the moisturiser for the study will be provided to you.

What if I feel uncomfortable during the study?

You can stop participating in the study at any time you wish, for any reason.

How often will I need to moisturise?

You will use the moisturiser according to your usual routine, but applying it at a specific time (either in-shower or after drying) for each month.

How to find out more

Wingfield Rehmus, MD, MPH

dermatologyresearch@cw.bc.ca 1-604-875-2606 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.