Common questions

What is an emulsifying ointment?

What is an emulsifying ointment?

What is emulsifying ointment? Emulsifying ointment is a mixture of paraffin oils. It is used to moisturise very dry skin such as in eczema or dermatitis. It is greasy and sticky and leaves a thin layer of oil on the surface of the skin that stops water evaporating.

Is emulsifying ointment the same as aqueous cream?

Aqueous cream, also known as simple cream or hydrous emulsifying ointment contains emulsifying ointment, purified water and a preservative such as phenoxyethanol or chlorocresol (1,3).

Can you buy Epaderm ointment over the counter?

You don’t need a prescription to buy this dose, but a pharmacist will need to ensure the treatment is suitable and safe for you.

How do I use emulsifying ointment?

Wet the body. Rub some emulsifying ointment with water between your palms until it lathers, then apply it to the entire body in a downward direction (in the direction of hair growth). Avoid use on your face and scalp, unless directed by your doctor. Wash off with water and gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

Can I wash my hair with emulsifying ointment?

Rub some emulsifying ointment with water between your palms until it lathers, then apply it to the entire body in a downward direction (in the direction of hair growth). Avoid use on your face and scalp, unless directed by your doctor. Wash off with water and gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

Can I use emulsifying ointment as a moisturiser?

You can use it whenever you take a bath, shower or wash your hands, both for washing and afterwards as a moisturiser. You can also put it directly on your skin as a moisturiser whenever you feel it dry. Emulsifying ointment can be used as often as you feel your skin needs it.

Are cream and ointment the same?

Creams and ointments can be either medicinal or cosmetic. The primary difference between the two is the ratio between oil and water. While a cream has equal parts oil and water, ointments have about 80 percent oil.

Is it safe to use emulsifying ointment during pregnancy?

None known. The safety of Emulsifying Ointment during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. Does not affect ability to drive or use machines. Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Emulsifying ointment may exacerbate acne and/or folliculitis.

What are the side effects of emulsifying wax?

Emulsifying wax (which contains sodium lauryl sulphate and cetostearyl alcohol) may cause local skin reactions (e.g. stinging, burning, itching, redness and contact dermatitis), particularly in children with atopic eczema. The package leaflet/label should include the following information:

How to use Epaderm ointment as an emollient?

1 For use as an emollient: Apply Epaderm Ointment to the skin as often as required. 2 For use as a bath additive: Melt Epaderm Ointment in a suitable container of hot water and and shake to mix. Ensure the… 3 For use as a skin cleanser: Use as required when washing or in the shower. More

What kind of alcohol is in emulsifying wax?

Emulsifying wax contains sodium lauryl sulphate and cetostearyl alcohol which may be associated with local skin reactions (e.g. stinging, burning, itching, redness and contact dermatitis) particularly in patients with eczema. See section 4.4.

Share this post