Ichthopaste bandages are impregnanted with two active ingredients, ichthammol and zinc oxide. Ichthammol prevents the excessive hardening and thickening of the skin which is seen in conditions such as eczema. It is not fully understood how it works, but it somehow prevents the process by which skin cells become thickened due to the deposition of a protein called keratin (keratinisation). It also has a mild antiseptic effect and can reduce itching. Zinc oxide has astringent properties and plays a role in wound healing chthopaste bandages are used to treat a range of eczematous skin conditions. They may be applied over topical corticosteroid creams and ointments to help manage chronic eczema affecting the legs or arms. The bandages help the corticosteroid to be absorbed into the skin, as well as reducing itching and helping prevent infection. Ichthopaste bandages can also be used in the treatment of leg ulcers, when a protective barrier is required for thin and fragile skin. The bandages reduce itching and help the ulcer to heal. They may be covered with a compression bandage to help blood circulation when the ulcer is caused by varicose veins or poor circulation.

Leg ulcers and chronic ezcema.