A web-based survey on the behavior of moisturizer used in adults with and without atopic dermatitis in Thailand

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Moisturizers play an important role in restoring the skin barrier. They should be used to treat and prevent eczema, especially in atopic dermatitis (AD). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the factors that influence selection of moisturizers in adult patients with AD and without it. Usage behavior between the two groups was also determined. METHODS: A cross-sectional web-based survey was performed. RESULTS: A total of 1,195 participants with mean age of 46.5 ± 14.5 were enrolled. Fifty participants (4.2%) met the William's criteria for AD diagnosis. Most participants reported using moisturizer every day or two times per day. A non-sticky moisturizer, followed by pleasant odor were considered important properties. For choosing a moisturizer, personal satisfaction was the most common answer given by participants. The most common locations that participants applied moisturizer were the extremities (85.1%) and face (84.9%). Physicians' suggestion was also a significant factor that led to moisturizer use by AD patients but it was not significant in the non-AD group (29.2% vs 14.7%, p = 0.007, OR 2.4). A pH of 5.5 and the anti-inflammatory property were important factors in choosing a moisturizer in the AD group. Both AD and non-AD participants preferred liquid soap over bar soap in daily life. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that most participants have basic knowledge of how to use a moisturizer. Physicians' suggestion influenced the selection of moisturizer in AD patients. Thus, physicians should continue to educate in order to achieve good clinical outcomes.