Aqueous cream

Key points about aqueous cream

  • Aqueous cream is a non-greasy emollient or moisturiser, used to relieve dry skin conditions such as eczema.
  • It helps to retain moisture on the skin and reduce dryness.
  • Find out how to use it.
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Aqueous cream is a non-greasy emollient or moisturiser, used to relieve dry skin conditions such as eczema.

  • It is made from a mixture of emulsifying ointment and water (also called oil in water emulsion).
  • When used as a soap substitute or wash product, aqueous cream works by providing a layer of oil on the surface of the skin, which traps water beneath it and prevents water evaporating from the skin surface. In this way, it helps to retain moisture on the skin and reduce dryness.
  • Read more about emollients and moisturisers.

There are two main types of aqueous cream

Not all brands of aqueous cream have the same formulation. There are now 2 main types of aqueous cream – one that contains the ingredient called sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and the SLS-free formulation. 

SLS irritates the skin when it is left on for a long time. This can cause skin reactions, such as burning, stinging, itching and redness. These reactions were noticed when aqueous cream was used as a leave-on emollient but not when used as a wash product or soap substitute, that is rinsed off.

Aqueous cream that contains SLS must be rinsed off after use. Do NOT use it as a leave-on emollient or moisturiserSLS-free aqueous cream can be used both as a leave-on emollient and a soap substitute.

Always check with your doctor or pharmacist which type of aqueous cream you have and ask for advice on how to use it. 

Aqueous cream is recommended as a soap substitute, to be used instead of soap. Soaps (including shower gels and bubble baths) can irritate and dry out the skin. This can make eczema worse. Although aqueous cream does not lather or foam like regular soap, it cleanses the skin well. It can be used before or during bathing, showering or washing.

  • If your aqueous cream contains sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), it must be washed off, and not left on the skin for prolonged periods.
  • If your aqueous cream does not contain SLS, it does not need to be washed off and can be left on the skin.

Be careful: When using aqueous cream in the bath or shower, the floor can become slippery so use a bath mat or shower mat to avoid accidents. If you are using it on a baby, take extra care so they don’t slip while bathing.

Side effects with aqueous cream are rare. Some people can get signs of sensitivity or an allergic reaction such as red, itchy skin. This may be confused with a flare-up of eczema or dermatitis. If you get these symptoms, tell your doctor or pharmacist. 

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Credits: Sandra Ponen, Pharmacist, Healthify He Puna Waiora. Healthify is brought to you by Health Navigator Charitable Trust.

Reviewed by: Angela Lambie, Pharmacist, Auckland

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