Indications
Lac-Hydrin lotion is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of dry, scaly, or itchy skin, such as those associated with ichthyosis vulgaris or xerosis. It contains 12% ammonium lactate, which works as an emollient to help hydrate and soften the skin. It has a pH range of 4.4-5.5 and is available in a lotion formulation, which can be prescribed or purchased over the counter.
Uses and Dosage
Use Lac-Hydrin lotion regularly to get the most benefit from it. Most moisturizers need water to work well. Apply the product after bathing/showering while the skin is still damp. For very dry skin, your doctor may instruct you to soak the area before using the product. Check the label for directions about any areas or types of skin where you should not apply the product, such as on the face, any areas of broken/chapped/cut/irritated/scraped skin, or on a recently shaved area of the skin. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
- Before using Lac-Hydrin lotion, shake the bottle well to ensure that the active ingredients are well mixed.
- Check the label to see if you need to shake the bottle well before using.
- Apply a thin layer of the lotion to the affected areas of skin as needed or as directed on the label or by your doctor.
- Rub it in gently.
If you are using Lac-Hydrin lotion for diaper rash, clean the diaper area well before use and allow the area to dry before applying the product.
If you are using Lac-Hydrin lotion to treat radiation skin burns, check with radiation personnel to see if your brand can be applied before radiation therapy.
How often you apply the medication will depend on the product and your skin condition. To treat dry hands, you may need to use the product every time you wash your hands, applying it throughout the day. However, it is recommended to use Lac-Hydrin lotion twice daily or as directed by a physician.
Side effect
Common Side Effects of Lac hydrin lotion (Ammonium Lactate):
- Burning/stinging
- Rash
- Skin redness or irritation
Serious Side Effects of Lac hydrin lotion (Ammonium Lactate):
- Allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Dry or irritated skin
- Increased sensitivity to the sun
- Mild reddening or peeling of the skin
- Severe dry skin or peeling
Form and Strength
Lac hydrin lotion (Ammonium Lactate) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Ammonium Lactate: Lotion
- 12%
Caution
- Lac-Hydrin is a lotion that contains ammonium lactate, which is a moisturizer and exfoliant that is used to treat dry, scaly skin conditions such as xerosis and ichthyosis vulgaris.
- The lotion should be applied to clean, dry skin once or twice a day, or as directed by a healthcare provider.
- Common side effects of Lac-Hydrin include burning, stinging, redness, and peeling. If you experience any of these symptoms, speak to your healthcare provider.
- Avoid using Lac-Hydrin on broken or irritated skin, and avoid getting the lotion in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your healthcare provider before using Lac-Hydrin, as the safety of the tablet during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not well established.
- Lac-Hydrin should not be used on children under the age of 2 years old without first consulting a healthcare provider.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight and tanning beds while using Lac-Hydrin, as the medication may increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight.
- Lac-Hydrin may interact with other medications or skin care products, so speak to your healthcare provider before using this medication if you are using any other medicines or skin care products.
- If you accidentally get Lac-Hydrin in your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina, rinse thoroughly with water.
- If you develop a skin rash, hives, or difficulty breathing while using Lac-Hydrin, seek medical attention immediately, as these may be signs of an allergic reaction.
- Long, hot, or frequent bathing/washing can worsen dry skin. If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use Lac-Hydrin on my scalp?
No, Lac-Hydrin should not be used on the scalp. It is only meant to be used on the body.
How long does it take for Lac-Hydrin to start working?
The amount of time it takes for Lac-Hydrin to start working varies from person to person. Some people may notice an improvement in their skin within a few days, while others may need to use the medication for several weeks before seeing results.
Can I use Lac-Hydrin if I have sensitive skin?
Lac-Hydrin may cause irritation in people with sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, speak to your healthcare provider before using this medication.
Can Lac-Hydrin be used on open wounds?
No, Lac-Hydrin should not be used on open wounds, as it may cause further irritation.
Is it okay to use Lac-Hydrin with other skin care products?
Lac-Hydrin may interact with other skin care products, speak to your healthcare provider before using this medication with other products.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1810/lac-hydrin-topical/details
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9960/lac-hydrin-five-topical/details
- https://www.rxlist.com/lac-hydrin-drug.htm
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=3d94a218-ae4d-4158-bd8e-92743c7c8e0d
- https://www.goodrx.com/ammonium-lactate/what-is
- https://www.wellrx.com/lac-hydrin%20five/monographs/
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