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.