[Protective skin ointments. Their value in preventing occupational dermatoses]

The application of topical skin protectant products is discussed. Their primary indication is prophylaxis of non-allergic contact dermatitis. In persons already sensitized a reliable prevention of allergic contact eczema is doubtful. The methods which have been used in the past to prove the efficacy of skin protective ointments are examined critically. Most of the model experiments are of an acute character. They do not adequately suit the practical work situation, where occupational dermatoses develop after frequent contact with relatively small doses of noxious substances. A repetitive patch-test method is presented and with the use of two skin protective agents it is demonstrated how the efficacy of such products can be proven. For effective preventive measures in industry, it is recommended that skin protection plans be set up. It has been proven that such measures reduce the morbidity rate of occupational dermatoses, which serves to show its economical importance.