emulsifying ointment at a glance
Medicine class
Topical emollient and soap substitute
Licensed uses
Relief of dry skin symptoms and cleansing without ordinary soap
Important caution
The selected aqueous cream contains sodium lauryl sulfate, which can irritate skin, particularly eczema-prone skin in children.
Fire safety
Keep contaminated clothing, bedding and dressings away from cigarettes, flames and other ignition sources.
What is emulsifying ointment used for?
The selected product is licensed for topical use as:
An emollient for symptomatic relief of dry skin.
A soap substitute for washing skin.
How does emulsifying ointment work?
It hydrates the outer skin and leaves an oily barrier that reduces moisture loss, helping dry or chapped skin feel softer and protected.
How to take emulsifying ointment
For external use only. Smooth leave-on cream gently in the direction of hair growth rather than rubbing vigorously. As a soap substitute, combine it with warm water, spread it over the skin, rinse and pat dry. Treated skin, baths and floors may become slippery.
Avoid contaminating the container.
Keep contaminated fabrics away from cigarettes, flames and heat sources.
Wash contaminated clothing and bedding regularly, although residue may remain.
emulsifying ointment side effects
Common or expected effects
- Stinging, burning, itching or redness, especially when aqueous cream is left on eczema-prone skin.
- Local contact dermatitis from ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate or cetostearyl alcohol.
- Blocked or inflamed hair follicles.
emulsifying ointment in pregnancy
Adverse effects are unlikely during pregnancy when the selected product is used as indicated. Seek professional advice if extensive application is needed or the skin is severely damaged.
emulsifying ointment while breastfeeding
Adverse effects are unlikely when used as indicated. Avoid exposing the infant to product residue and ask a healthcare professional about use on or near the nipple.
emulsifying ointment interactions
The selected product has no known medicine interactions.
Topical corticosteroids and other medicated skin treatments
Applying products together may dilute or spread the medicated treatment.
Common questions about emulsifying ointment
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Can it replace soap?
Yes. The selected product is licensed as a soap substitute and should be rinsed off after washing.
Can it be left on the skin?
The selected aqueous cream is licensed as a leave-on emollient, but it can irritate some people, particularly children with eczema.
What should I do if it irritates my skin?
Stop using the selected aqueous cream and ask a pharmacist or clinician about an alternative if persistent burning, stinging, itching or redness develops.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.