Randomisation
Infants were randomised (1:1 allocation ratio) within 4 days of birth to
either twice-daily emollient application for the first 8 weeks of life
(intervention groupintervention - IG) or to standard routine skin care
advice (control group - CG). Parents and research nurses and staff
responsible for recruitment, taking measurements and administering
questionnaires were not blinded to study allocation. The study doctor
performing AD and food allergy assessments was not involved in
recruitment and was blinded throughout the study. Parents in the IG were
instructed to apply the emollient AVEENO® Dermexa Fast & Long Lasting
Balm (Johnson & Johnson Santé Beauté France, JJSBF) twice-daily to the
whole body (excluding scalp) for the first 8 weeks. This product, with
oat ingredient, fatty acids and ceramides, developed specifically for
very dry itchy skin AD-prone skin, was supplied free to the study by the
manufacturer but is publicly available for sale and for use in this age
group. Emollient use after the intervention period was at parental
discretion. The CG were advised to follow the standard skin care advice
given at CUMH, which does not include regular emollient use, unless
indicated. Both groups were provided with AVEENO® Baby Daily Care Baby
Gentle Wash (JJSBF) to be used at their discretion. Adherence was
assessed using questionnaires at 2, 4 and 8-week and diaries completed
over the intervention period. Adherence to the intervention was defined
as using an emollient at least once daily. Contamination in the CG was
defined as emollient on four or more days per week.