Decoding the language of skin therapies:
- Antibacterial – This therapy contains an antibiotic for treating bacterial infections such as infected wounds.
- Antifungal – This contains an agent for treating fungal infections, like ringworm.
- Anti-inflammatory – This contains an agent or agents used to reduce the level of inflammation.
- Anti-parasitic – This contains an agent for dealing with parasites like lice.
- Anti-pruritic – This is an agent used for relieving itchy conditions.
- Anti-septic – This is a chemical that inhibits the growth of bacteria and other micro-organisms. It is used to cleanse wounds a prevent infections and the spread of infections.
- Astringent – These are drying agents, which are used to harden and protect the skin. They can also be used to reduce the bleeding from small cuts and grazes.
- Emollient – This is used to moisturise and soften the skin. Sometimes other drugs are added to these creams to make the drug easier to apply.
- Sunscreens – This contains agents that protect against ultraviolet (UV) rays, which help to prevent sunburn.