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Aqueous Cream 100g

Aqueous Cream 100g

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  • ✔️ Soothes and hydrates dry, itchy, and sensitive skin
  • ✔️ Gentle soap-free formula suitable for eczema-prone skin
  • ✔️ Helps restore moisture to skin affected by dermatitis
  • ✔️ Fragrance-free emollient ideal for daily skin cleansing
  • ✔️ Affordable 100g tub for regular emollient therapy

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What Is Aqueous Cream and How Does It Help Dry Skin?

 

Aqueous cream is one of the most widely used emollients in the UK, available over the counter without a prescription. It is a water-based, soap-free preparation that helps to hydrate and protect dry, sensitive, or irritated skin. Whether you are managing a long-term skin condition or simply dealing with seasonal dryness, it offers a gentle, affordable option. You can browse the full range of skin care products at Cured Pharmacy if you are looking for something to complement your routine.

Aqueous cream BP has been used in UK clinical practice for decades. It is listed in the British National Formulary as an emollient and soap substitute, and the NHS recommends emollients as a cornerstone of managing dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. At just £1.99 for 100g, it is one of the most accessible options available.

 

How Does Aqueous Cream Work as an Emollient?

 

Emollients work by forming a protective layer over the skin surface, reducing water loss through a process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Aqueous cream does this by delivering a blend of emulsifying ointment dispersed in purified water, which softens and smooths the outer layers of the skin (the stratum corneum).

  • Deposits a thin film of lipids onto the skin surface to lock in moisture
  • Reduces friction and irritation caused by dry, flaky skin
  • Softens the stratum corneum, making skin feel more supple
  • When used as a soap substitute, cleanses without disrupting the skin's natural barrier

It is worth noting that aqueous cream contains phenoxyethanol as a preservative. Some studies have raised concerns that this ingredient may cause irritation when the cream is left on the skin, particularly in people with eczema. For this reason, many dermatologists now recommend using it primarily as a wash-off product rather than a leave-on moisturiser.

 

Who Should Use Aqueous Cream and Is It Right for You?

 

Aqueous cream is suitable for a wide range of people dealing with dry or sensitive skin. It is particularly useful as a soap substitute for those who find conventional soaps too harsh or drying. That said, it is not the right choice for everyone — especially as a leave-on treatment for children with eczema.

  • Adults with dry, flaky, or sensitive skin looking for a gentle daily cleanser
  • People with eczema or dermatitis who need a soap-free wash alternative
  • Individuals with psoriasis seeking a simple, fragrance-free emollient
  • Those managing ichthyosis or other chronic dry skin conditions under medical supervision

If you are unsure whether aqueous cream is appropriate for your skin type, speak to your pharmacist. You might also find it helpful to explore our creams and ointments collection for a broader selection of emollient options.

 

How Does Aqueous Cream Compare to Other Emollients?

 

Feature Aqueous Cream 100g E45 Cream
Main ingredients Emulsifying ointment, purified water, phenoxyethanol White soft paraffin, light liquid paraffin, hypoallergenic lanolin
Best use Soap substitute / wash-off emollient Leave-on moisturiser for dry skin
Suitable for children with eczema (leave-on) Not recommended Yes, with guidance
Fragrance-free Yes Yes

 

How Should You Store Aqueous Cream and What Should You Check Before Using It?

 

Store your aqueous cream below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Do not freeze it. Always check the expiry date before use, and discard the product if it has changed in colour, smell, or texture. Keep the lid tightly closed between uses to prevent contamination.

If you have a known allergy to any of the ingredients — including emulsifying wax or phenoxyethanol — do not use this product. Always patch test on a small area of skin before applying more widely, particularly if your skin is already inflamed or broken.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Aqueous Cream 100g specifications
Treatment category Emollient / Skin moisturiser
Mechanism of action Forms a protective lipid film on the skin surface to reduce transepidermal water loss
Effective for Dry skin, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, ichthyosis
Suitable for Adults; use in children only as soap substitute under guidance
Active ingredient Emulsifying Ointment BP in purified water with phenoxyethanol
Pack size 100g
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Emollient
Preparation Cream
Route of administration Topical (skin)

Specifications of Aqueous Cream 100g

 

What Is Aqueous Cream 100g and What Is It Used For?

 

Aqueous Cream BP is a topical emollient preparation used to relieve and manage dry, itchy, or sensitive skin. It is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning you can buy it without a prescription. The NHS recommends emollients as a first-line treatment for conditions such as eczema, contact dermatitis, and psoriasis, and aqueous cream has long been used both as a leave-on moisturiser and as a soap substitute during washing.

It is important to understand that current NHS and dermatology guidance advises against using aqueous cream as a leave-on emollient — particularly in children with eczema — due to the potential for skin irritation caused by the preservative phenoxyethanol. As a wash-off product, however, it remains a practical and cost-effective option for many people.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Aqueous Cream?

 

Before applying aqueous cream, read the following carefully. There are certain situations where you should not use this product, or where you should seek advice first.

Do not use aqueous cream if you:

  • Are allergic to emulsifying wax, phenoxyethanol, or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Have an active skin infection — emollients should not be applied to infected skin without medical advice
  • Are using it as a leave-on moisturiser for a child with eczema (seek an alternative emollient from your GP or pharmacist)

Warnings and precautions:

  • Aqueous cream can make surfaces slippery — take care when using in the bath or shower
  • Emollient products can be a fire hazard if they soak into fabric; keep clothing and bedding away from open flames
  • Do not apply to broken, infected, or weeping skin without first consulting a healthcare professional
  • Patch test before widespread use if you have highly sensitive or reactive skin

Known drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant drug interactions are known for topically applied aqueous cream
  • If you are using other topical medicines (e.g. topical corticosteroids), apply aqueous cream first and allow it to absorb before applying other treatments, or follow your prescriber's instructions

 

How Should You Use Aqueous Cream Correctly?

 

Using aqueous cream correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Whether you are using it as a soap substitute or a short-term leave-on treatment for adults, follow these steps for best results.

  1. Wash your hands before applying the cream to avoid introducing bacteria
  2. Apply a generous amount to the affected area of skin
  3. Smooth gently in the direction of hair growth — do not rub vigorously
  4. If using as a soap substitute, apply to wet skin, massage gently, then rinse off thoroughly
  5. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel — never rub
  6. Reapply as often as needed, particularly after washing or bathing
Indication Age Group Use Frequency
Dry skin / soap substitute Adults Apply to skin during washing, rinse off As needed, with each wash
Eczema / dermatitis (soap substitute) Adults & children (under guidance) Wash-off use only With each wash
Dry skin (leave-on) Adults only Apply to affected area, leave on 2–4 times daily or as directed

If you are managing a skin condition alongside other treatments, you may also find our baby and toddler skin care range useful for younger family members, where age-appropriate emollients are available.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Aqueous Cream?

 

Like all medicines, aqueous cream can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The most commonly reported issues relate to the preservative phenoxyethanol, which can irritate sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

Common side effects:

  • Mild skin irritation or redness at the site of application
  • Stinging or burning sensation, particularly on inflamed skin
  • Itching or a feeling of tightness after application

Less common side effects:

  • Contact dermatitis (allergic reaction to an ingredient in the cream)
  • Worsening of eczema symptoms with prolonged leave-on use
  • Skin barrier disruption with repeated use as a leave-on product in children

If you notice any worsening of your skin condition after starting aqueous cream, stop using it and speak to your pharmacist or GP. They may recommend an alternative emollient better suited to your skin type.

 

How Should You Store Aqueous Cream 100g?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of your aqueous cream. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat
  • Do not freeze
  • Keep the lid tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Do not share your cream with others to avoid cross-contamination

For a wider selection of emollient and skin care options, visit our creams and ointments collection where you can find alternatives suited to different skin types and conditions.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy aqueous cream online in the UK?

You can buy Aqueous Cream 100g online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £1.99. It is available without a prescription as a General Sale List medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched quickly to your door.

What is aqueous cream used for?

Aqueous cream is used as an emollient to soothe and hydrate dry, itchy, or sensitive skin. It is commonly recommended for conditions including eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and ichthyosis. It can also be used as a soap substitute to cleanse skin without stripping its natural oils.

How does aqueous cream work on dry skin?

Aqueous cream works by depositing a thin film of emulsifying ointment onto the skin surface, which helps to reduce transepidermal water loss and lock in moisture. This softens the outer layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, making it feel smoother and less tight. The water-based formulation also makes it easy to spread and rinse off.

How do I use aqueous cream step by step?

To use aqueous cream as a soap substitute, apply it to wet skin, massage gently in the direction of hair growth, then rinse off thoroughly with lukewarm water. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing. If using as a leave-on emollient for adults, apply a generous layer to the affected area and allow it to absorb.

How often should I apply aqueous cream?

As a soap substitute, use aqueous cream with every wash or bath in place of regular soap. As a leave-on emollient for adults, it can be applied two to four times daily or as directed by your GP or pharmacist. The more frequently you moisturise dry skin, the better the results tend to be.

Is aqueous cream safe for babies and children?

Aqueous cream is not recommended as a leave-on moisturiser for children with eczema, as clinical evidence suggests the preservative phenoxyethanol may irritate the skin and worsen the condition. It may be used as a wash-off soap substitute in children under the guidance of a healthcare professional. For age-appropriate emollients, browse our baby and toddler range.

Can I use aqueous cream on my face?

Aqueous cream can be used on the face as a wash-off soap substitute, particularly for people with sensitive or eczema-prone facial skin. It is not generally recommended as a leave-on facial moisturiser due to the risk of irritation from phenoxyethanol. If you experience any stinging or redness after use, rinse off immediately and consult your pharmacist.

What are the side effects of aqueous cream?

The most commonly reported side effects include skin irritation, stinging, burning, or redness at the site of application. These reactions are most often linked to the preservative phenoxyethanol and are more likely to occur in people with eczema or broken skin. If side effects persist or worsen, stop using the product and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Who is eligible to use aqueous cream?

Aqueous cream is suitable for most adults with dry, sensitive, or irritated skin and can be purchased without a prescription. It is not recommended as a leave-on treatment for children with eczema, and anyone with a known allergy to emulsifying wax or phenoxyethanol should avoid it. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a complex skin condition, check with your pharmacist before use.

What is the difference between aqueous cream and E45?

Aqueous cream BP contains emulsifying ointment and phenoxyethanol, making it best suited as a wash-off soap substitute. E45 contains white soft paraffin, light liquid paraffin, and hypoallergenic lanolin, and is generally considered more suitable as a leave-on moisturiser. Both are fragrance-free emollients, but they have different formulations and recommended uses.

What are alternatives to aqueous cream?

Common alternatives include E45 cream, Diprobase, Doublebase gel, Cetraben, and Hydromol, all of which are available as leave-on emollients. Your GP or pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate option based on your skin type and condition. You can also explore our skin care collection for a range of emollient options.

Can aqueous cream be used for eczema?

Aqueous cream can be used as a soap substitute for people with eczema, helping to cleanse without triggering flare-ups caused by conventional soaps. However, it is no longer recommended as a leave-on emollient for eczema — particularly in children — due to evidence that phenoxyethanol may worsen the skin barrier. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about a more suitable leave-on emollient for eczema management.

How long can you use aqueous cream for?

Aqueous cream can be used long-term as a soap substitute without significant concern. If you are using it as a leave-on moisturiser and notice any irritation or worsening of your skin condition, stop use and consult a healthcare professional. There is no set maximum duration for use as a wash-off product in adults.

Is aqueous cream a fire hazard?

Yes — like all emollient products, aqueous cream can soak into fabric such as clothing, bedding, and dressings, creating a fire risk if exposed to a naked flame or cigarette. The NHS advises washing clothing and bedding regularly to reduce the build-up of emollient residue. Always keep treated fabric away from open flames, candles, and smoking materials.

What are the latest findings on aqueous cream and eczema?

Research published in the past decade has highlighted that phenoxyethanol — the preservative in aqueous cream — can disrupt the skin barrier and cause irritation when used as a leave-on product in people with eczema. As a result, NHS and NICE guidance now recommends using aqueous cream only as a soap substitute rather than a leave-on emollient for eczema. Patients are encouraged to discuss alternative emollients with their GP or pharmacist for ongoing skin management.

How Should You Use Aqueous Cream?

Aqueous cream is straightforward to use, but applying it correctly will help you get the most benefit from it. Whether you are using it as a soap substitute or a leave-on emollient for adults, the technique matters — particularly for dry or sensitive skin that needs gentle handling.

What Is the Correct Dose of Aqueous Cream?

There is no fixed dose for aqueous cream in the traditional sense — the amount you use will depend on the size of the area being treated and how dry your skin is. As a general rule, apply enough to cover the affected area with a thin, even layer. More frequent application is usually more beneficial than using a larger amount less often.

When Is the Best Time to Use Aqueous Cream?

The best time to apply aqueous cream as a leave-on emollient is immediately after bathing or washing, while the skin is still slightly damp. This helps to seal in moisture and maximise the hydrating effect. Applying it before bed can also be particularly helpful, as the skin has time to absorb the emollient overnight without being washed off.

As a soap substitute, use it every time you would normally reach for soap — during your morning shower, after exercise, or whenever you wash your hands if your skin is very dry.

How Long Can You Use Aqueous Cream For?

Aqueous cream can be used as a long-term soap substitute without any set time limit, provided it does not cause irritation. For adults using it as a leave-on emollient, it can also be used regularly as part of a daily skin care routine. However, if you notice any worsening of your skin condition, increased redness, or persistent stinging, stop use and speak to your pharmacist or GP about a more suitable alternative.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Aqueous Cream?

Most people use aqueous cream without experiencing any significant problems. However, some individuals — particularly those with eczema or very sensitive skin — may notice mild reactions, especially when using it as a leave-on product. The most commonly reported side effects are related to the preservative phenoxyethanol in the formulation.

  • Mild skin irritation or redness at the site of application
  • Stinging or burning sensation, particularly on inflamed or broken skin
  • Itching after application
  • A feeling of tightness or discomfort on the skin

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Aqueous Cream?

Less frequently, some people may experience more noticeable reactions that suggest the skin is not tolerating the product well. If any of the following occur, stop using the cream and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP.

  • Contact dermatitis — an allergic reaction causing a rash, blistering, or swelling
  • Worsening of eczema symptoms with prolonged leave-on use
  • Skin barrier disruption, particularly in children with atopic eczema
  • Increased skin sensitivity following repeated application

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Aqueous Cream?

Serious side effects from aqueous cream are rare. However, if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction — such as widespread rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or dizziness — stop using the product immediately and seek emergency medical attention. This type of reaction is uncommon but requires prompt treatment.

There is also a fire hazard associated with emollient products. Aqueous cream can soak into fabric such as clothing and bedding, and if this fabric comes into contact with a naked flame, it can ignite more easily. The NHS advises washing clothing and bedding regularly to reduce emollient build-up.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you notice mild irritation after applying aqueous cream, rinse the area with cool water and allow the skin to settle. Consider switching to a wash-off application method rather than leaving the cream on the skin. If symptoms persist or worsen after 48 hours, speak to your pharmacist — they can recommend an alternative emollient that may suit your skin better.

Keep a note of when the reaction started and which area of skin was affected, as this information will help your pharmacist or GP advise you more effectively.

Can Aqueous Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions are known for topically applied aqueous cream. If you are using other topical treatments — such as corticosteroid creams or antibiotic ointments — apply aqueous cream first and allow it to absorb before applying the other product, unless your prescriber has advised otherwise. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are using, including over-the-counter products.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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