Exposure to harsh and unfriendly weather conditions can make your skin to become dry. More often than not, dry skin can lead to more problems. In such instances, application of moisturizing ointments can be yield favourable results. You may need to seek out the remedies for such skin conditions and also understand how to use them. Your dermatologist can help in such matters based on your skin condition.
Vitamin A and D ointment is used for treating dry skin. This medication is applied directly onto your skin to moisturize it and also heal conditions such as itchiness, scaling as well as roughness. This medication also has the capabilities to help you avoid such medical conditions. Not stopping with these benefits, the ointment also can be applied to treat irritations you may experience on skin because of exposure to radiation therapy (as part of cancer treatment), rashes that may develop in babies due to diapers, etc.
How does this ointment work?
The ointment – i.e., vitamin A and D – belongs to a class of medications known as emollients. This class of drugs are known for their properties to add moisture to your skin as well as decrease adverse conditions such as itchiness. These ointments function by softening your skin. These creams are also of great use in removing flakes formed on the skin.
Dryness of skin is formed when the top part of your skin is deprived of water. Emollients and ointment containing vitamins A and D can render an oily property to your skin. This oiliness helps retain moisture on the skin and thus prevents dryness. Your skin has a relatively hard substance called keratin. Topical medications help smoothen this top part. In the process, dead cells are eliminated and enhance the capability to your skin to retain water. This whole process makes your skin younger, smoother and moist. The most active ingredients in this ointment are white petrolatum, liquid paraffin, lanolin, vitamin A and vitamin D.
Instructions to be followed prior to use
Its use is recommended for burns (minor level), cuts, skin ulcers, abrasions, sunburn, etc. If you are using it for major burns, you need to consult a doctor. Also, if your skin has developed cuts or other open wounds, it may need to be applied only under proper medical supervision.
You are advised to use the ointment as prescribed for better results. If you are suffering from extra dry skin condition, you may be advised to dampen the affected areas before application.
If you are suffering from sores or other infections on your skin, you are advised to talk to your skin doctor about topical application of this drug. Also, if you have any known allergies to this ointment or any of its ingredients, consult your doctor before using it. Wash your hands well before applying this ointment. Excessive application of this cream may be avoided. Thinners may be used to lessen the impact. If you happen to experience any discomforts, you need to seek medical attention without any further delay. US residents need to medical emergency services. Those living in Canada need to call their local medical helplines.
Other needful precautions
A few people may develop risks of acne when using such drugs. If your skin has such a medical history, check if the product blocks the pores on your skin. If it is known to clog the tiny openings, then the product is likely to cause acne. Hence, stay away from comedogenic (ability to clog the tiny openings) medications. Some of the brands may cause allergic reactions. Common allergies include irritation of your skin, stinging sensation, rashes and burning. However, most people who have used this product have not complained of any major side effects. In extremely rare cases, some acute side effects have been observed. These are drowsiness, gasping for breath, swelling of skin, etc. Seek medical help if patient develops symptoms such as blurring of vision, arrhythmia, increase in thirstiness or frequent urges to urinate, fatigue and overall weakness of the body. The lists of side effects – mentioned above – do not constitute a complete list. Hence, you need to consult a pharmacist or a qualified skin doctor to know the complete list of side effects.
Dosage
You are advised to follow doctor’s instructions. Also read directions on prescription drug label.
Two people having high levels of skin condition may not be advised with same dose. You are advised to follow the treatment plan given by your skin doctor. Your doctor may also advise you to reduce the consumption of alcohol. It is recommended to stop the intake of alcohol while using this drug. Take needful guidance from a qualified dietician about foods which may help your recovery. It is also essential to talk to the dietician about foods that can cause adverse side effects.
You are advised not to perform activities which need a high level of alertness. If you are planning to get pregnant or breastfeeding a baby, you should tell about it to your skin doctor.
What if you miss a dose? Take it as soon as you remember. If it falls close to next dosage, skip and stick to prescription schedule. Refrain from applying the ointment twice. Check with skin doctor for needful advice.
Overdosed?
Seek medical attention immediately. If you are observing undesired and adverse side effects like nausea, vomiting, tremors, dizziness, etc, contact 911 on an emergency basis. You must contact a poison control center without any further delay. Residents in the US should contact a local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 as quickly as possible. Residents in Canada must contact a provincial poison control center on a high priority basis. Signs of a likely overdose are rashes on skin, gasping for breath, inflammation of throat, severe pain in stomach or in the lower abdomen, etc.
It is not recommended to strengthen the dosage of without the prior consent of your treating doctor.
A strengthened dosage of this medication – i.e., consumed without telling your treating doctor – can cause a few unwanted and adverse side effects. An enhanced dose need not necessarily provide a quicker recovery from your current health condition. Always remember to apply this medication at the same times each day. If you are planning to discontinue the intake of this medication without telling your treating physician, it can worsen your current health condition. You must also inform your physician about all your pre-existing skin diseases and disorders allergies such as hypersensitivity to vitamins A and D, other skin problems, nausea, etc.
Storage and general instructions
This drug is stored at room temperature. The storage unit needs to be kept away from sunlight and heat. Ensure to keep the drug from pets and children. You also need to read the instructions printed on the product’s packaging. Careful reading of the instructions may advise you to avoid applying it on shaved part of your skin, broken or chapped skin as well as on your face.
Education: Master’s in Clinical Nutrition from Tufts University. Experience: 6 years of experience as a registered dietitian and freelance writer, creating content on nutritional science and weight management for various health websites.
Exclusive 30% OFF for New Customers!
