What is the primary function of emollients in wound care?

Emollients play a crucial role in wound care primarily by retarding water loss from the skin. Their formulation contains ingredients that create a protective barrier on the skin's surface, which helps to maintain hydration and prevent the transepidermal water loss that can lead to dryness and further complications in wound healing. By helping to preserve moisture, emollients support the skin's natural barrier function, which is essential for healing and maintaining overall skin integrity.

While enhancing skin elasticity, promoting scar formation, and reducing inflammation are important aspects of wound management, these are not the primary functions of emollients. Instead, the focus of emollients is fundamentally on maintaining hydration, which ultimately contributes to a conducive environment for healing.