isopropyl myristate + liquid paraffin: clinical use

Prescribing considerations

• Confirm that a wash-off soap substitute, rather than a leave-on emollient, meets the intended treatment role.
• Assess smoking, open-flame, cooking, oxygen-use and mobility risks, particularly where residue may accumulate on fabrics.
• Explain slip prevention and cleaning of baths, showers and floors.
• Consider another formulation if local irritation occurs or acceptability limits use.

Contraindications and cautions

• Known hypersensitivity to either active ingredient or any excipient.

Monitoring

• Skin tolerance and whether dryness, itching or inflammation is improving.
• Signs of local irritation, allergic reaction or secondary skin infection.
• Understanding of fire and slip precautions where ongoing use is expected.

Clinical pharmacology

Isopropyl myristate and liquid paraffin act as occlusive emollients in the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss and softening dry skin. Cetomacrogol provides non-ionic cleansing action suitable for use as a soap substitute.

Formulation and product differences

• The selected product is a white, opaque wash-off gel rather than a leave-on moisturiser.
• It cleanses gently without foaming and is rinsed from the skin.
• The formulation contains phenoxyethanol and cetomacrogol among its excipients.