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Balneum Plus Cream 100g

Balneum Plus Cream 100g

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  • ✔️ Moisturises dry, rough skin with urea 5%
  • ✔️ Relieves persistent itch via lauromacrogols 3%
  • ✔️ Suitable for eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis
  • ✔️ Restores and maintains the skin's natural barrier
  • ✔️ Available over the counter without a prescription

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What Is Balneum Plus Cream and How Does It Help Dry Skin?

 

Balneum Plus Cream is a topical emollient designed to moisturise dry, rough, and itchy skin. It contains two active ingredients — urea 5% and lauromacrogols 3% — which work together to hydrate the skin and ease the discomfort of persistent itching. Dry skin is incredibly common in the UK, affecting people of all ages, and it can be particularly troublesome in conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis. If you're looking for a straightforward, clinically recognised option to manage these symptoms, this cream is worth knowing about. You can explore a wider range of options in our skin care collection.

At just £4.98 for a 100g tube, Balneum Plus Cream offers an accessible way to manage dry and itchy skin without needing a prescription. It's available over the counter and is suitable for regular use as part of a daily skincare routine.

 

How Does Balneum Plus Cream Work on Dry and Itchy Skin?

 

The cream's effectiveness comes down to its two-ingredient approach. Urea is a naturally occurring substance found in healthy skin that helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier. When applied topically, it draws water into the outer layers of the skin (the stratum corneum) and helps prevent water loss — a process known as humectancy. Lauromacrogols, on the other hand, act as a mild local anaesthetic on the skin's surface, reducing the sensation of itch without numbing the area entirely.

  • Urea attracts and binds moisture within the skin's outer layers
  • Lauromacrogols interrupt the itch signal at the skin surface
  • Together, they soften rough, thickened skin over time
  • Regular use helps restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier function

 

Who Should Use Balneum Plus Cream?

 

This cream is suitable for adults and children who experience dry, flaky, or itchy skin. It's particularly useful for people managing chronic skin conditions where both dryness and itch are ongoing concerns. It's also a practical choice for anyone whose skin becomes dry due to environmental factors, frequent handwashing, or ageing.

  • People with eczema or dermatitis experiencing dry, itchy patches
  • Those with psoriasis or ichthyosis needing regular emollient support
  • Individuals with generally dry skin worsened by cold weather or central heating
  • Patients whose skin becomes rough and uncomfortable due to frequent washing

 

How Does Balneum Plus Cream Compare to Other Emollients?

 

Feature Balneum Plus Cream Standard Emollient (e.g. E45 Cream)
Active ingredients Urea 5% + Lauromacrogols 3% White soft paraffin, light liquid paraffin
Anti-itch action Yes (lauromacrogols) No specific antipruritic agent
Moisturising mechanism Humectant (urea-based) Occlusive barrier
Prescription required No — OTC No — OTC

 

Is Balneum Plus Cream Safe to Store and Use Long Term?

 

Balneum Plus Cream should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and kept out of reach of children. Once opened, check the packaging for the period-after-opening symbol to confirm how long it remains usable. It should not be applied to broken, infected, or inflamed skin without medical advice, and contact with the eyes and mucous membranes should always be avoided.

For those managing ongoing skin conditions, emollients like this one are often recommended as a cornerstone of daily care. If you're also exploring other topical treatments, our creams and ointments collection includes a range of options to suit different needs. Always speak to your pharmacist or GP if you're unsure whether this product is right for your skin type or condition.

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.

Balneum Plus Cream 100g specifications
Treatment category Emollient / Antipruritic
Active ingredients Urea 5%, Lauromacrogols 3%
Mechanism of action Humectant moisturisation (urea); topical antipruritic (lauromacrogols)
Suitable for Adults and children with dry, itchy skin
Pack size 100g
UK classification General Sale / OTC
Drug class Emollient
Preparation Cream
Route of administration Topical (cutaneous)

Specifications of Balneum Plus Cream 100g

 

What Is Balneum Plus Cream and What Is It Used For?

 

Balneum Plus Cream is a topical emollient used to treat dry, rough, and itchy skin. It contains two active ingredients: urea 5%, which moisturises the skin by attracting and retaining water in the outer skin layers, and lauromacrogols 3%, which provide a mild antipruritic (anti-itch) effect. It is used to manage symptoms associated with conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, and general dry skin. The NHS recognises emollients as a key part of managing these conditions, recommending their regular use to keep skin hydrated and reduce flare-ups.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Balneum Plus Cream?

 

Before using this cream, read the following carefully. It is not suitable for everyone, and certain precautions apply.

Do not use Balneum Plus Cream if:

  • You are allergic to urea, lauromacrogols, or any other ingredient in the cream
  • The skin is broken, infected, or severely inflamed — seek medical advice first
  • You need to apply it near the eyes or mucous membranes

Warnings and precautions:

  • Keep away from the eyes, mouth, and nose
  • Do not use on open wounds or raw skin
  • If a skin reaction develops, stop use and consult your pharmacist or GP
  • Consult a doctor before use in infants or very young children
  • Emollient creams can make surfaces slippery — take care in the bath or shower

Drug interactions:

  • No significant drug interactions are currently known for topical urea or lauromacrogols
  • If you are using other topical medicines on the same area, speak to your pharmacist about the order of application

 

How Should You Use Balneum Plus Cream?

 

Using this cream correctly will help you get the most benefit from it. Apply it gently — there's no need to rub vigorously, as this can irritate already sensitive skin.

  1. Wash and dry your hands before applying the cream
  2. Take a small amount of cream and apply it directly to the affected area
  3. Smooth it in gently using downward strokes in the direction of hair growth
  4. Allow the cream to absorb before dressing or applying other products
  5. Wash your hands after application unless the hands themselves are being treated
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Dry, itchy skin Adults Apply a thin layer to affected area 2–3 times daily
Dry, itchy skin Children (under medical guidance) Apply a thin layer to affected area 2–3 times daily
Eczema / psoriasis maintenance Adults and older children Apply liberally to affected areas As directed by GP or dermatologist

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Balneum Plus Cream?

 

Like all medicines, Balneum Plus Cream can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most reactions are mild and localised to the area of application.

Common side effects:

  • Mild stinging or burning sensation on first application
  • Temporary redness at the application site
  • Mild skin irritation, particularly on sensitive skin

Less common side effects:

  • Allergic skin reaction (rash, itching, or swelling beyond the application area)
  • Worsening of skin irritation with continued use

If you notice any signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as widespread rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face — stop using the cream immediately and seek urgent medical attention. You can find further guidance on managing skin conditions through our skin care range.

 

How Should You Store Balneum Plus Cream?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the cream's effectiveness and safety throughout its shelf life.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the tube 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 dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused product to your pharmacist

If you're managing a skin condition alongside other health concerns, it may be worth exploring our baby and toddler range if you're treating a young child, or speaking to your GP about a broader skincare plan.

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 Balneum Plus Cream online in the UK?

You can buy Balneum Plus Cream 100g online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £4.98. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter emollient. No consultation is required — simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched directly to your door.

How does Balneum Plus Cream work in the body?

Balneum Plus Cream works through two active ingredients applied directly to the skin. Urea 5% acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the outer layers of the skin and helping to prevent water loss. Lauromacrogols 3% provide a mild local anaesthetic effect at the skin surface, reducing the sensation of itch without affecting deeper tissue.

How do I apply Balneum Plus Cream step by step?

Start by washing and drying your hands, then squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertips. Apply it gently to the affected area using smooth, downward strokes in the direction of hair growth, and allow it to absorb before dressing. Avoid the eyes, mouth, and any broken or infected skin.

How often should I use Balneum Plus Cream each day?

The cream is typically applied two to three times daily to the affected areas, or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Consistency is important — regular use helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier and reduces the frequency of itching episodes. If your symptoms don't improve after a few weeks, speak to your GP.

What are the side effects of Balneum Plus Cream?

The most commonly reported side effects are mild stinging, burning, or redness at the application site, particularly when you first start using the cream. These sensations are usually temporary and settle with continued use. If you develop a more widespread rash, swelling, or worsening irritation, stop using the cream and consult your pharmacist or GP.

How do I manage side effects of Balneum Plus Cream?

If you experience mild stinging on application, try applying the cream to slightly damp skin after bathing, which can reduce the initial sensation. Avoid applying it to broken or raw skin, as this is more likely to cause irritation. If side effects persist beyond the first few days of use, speak to your pharmacist for advice.

Is Balneum Plus Cream suitable for children?

Balneum Plus Cream can be used in children, but you should consult a doctor or pharmacist before applying it to infants or very young children. For older children with eczema or dry skin, it is often used as part of a daily emollient routine. Always follow the guidance of a healthcare professional when treating children's skin conditions.

What is the difference between Balneum Cream and Balneum Plus Cream?

Balneum Cream contains only urea as its active ingredient, providing moisturisation for dry skin. Balneum Plus Cream contains both urea and lauromacrogols, adding a specific antipruritic (anti-itch) action that makes it more suitable when itching is a significant symptom alongside dryness. If itch is your main concern, the Plus formulation is generally the more appropriate choice.

Can I use Balneum Plus Cream on my face?

The cream should be used with caution on the face and must be kept well away from the eyes and mucous membranes. If you need to treat dry or itchy skin on the face, speak to your pharmacist or GP first to confirm it is appropriate for your specific situation. There may be alternative formulations better suited to facial skin.

Who is eligible to use Balneum Plus Cream?

Balneum Plus Cream is suitable for most adults and children who have dry, rough, or itchy skin, including those with eczema, psoriasis, or ichthyosis. It is not suitable for people with a known allergy to any of its ingredients, or for use on broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin without medical advice. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your pharmacist before use.

What happens if I forget to apply Balneum Plus Cream?

If you miss an application, simply apply the cream as soon as you remember and then continue with your usual routine. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed dose — just return to your regular schedule. Consistent daily use gives the best results for managing dry and itchy skin.

What are the alternatives to Balneum Plus Cream?

Alternatives include other urea-based emollients such as Eucerin Dry Skin Intensive Cream 10% Urea, or antipruritic emollients like Eurax Cream (crotamiton). Standard emollients without antipruritic agents, such as Diprobase or E45, are also widely used for dry skin but do not address itch directly. You can browse a range of options in our creams and ointments collection.

How long can you use Balneum Plus Cream for?

Balneum Plus Cream can be used long term as part of a daily skincare routine for chronic dry skin conditions, provided it continues to be well tolerated. Many people with eczema or psoriasis use emollients indefinitely as a maintenance treatment. If your skin condition changes or worsens, review your treatment with your GP or dermatologist.

Can I use Balneum Plus Cream during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There is limited specific data on the use of topical urea and lauromacrogols during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is advisable to speak to your GP or pharmacist before using this cream if you are pregnant or nursing. Topical emollients are generally considered low risk, but professional guidance is always recommended. Avoid applying to the breast area if breastfeeding.

What are the latest studies on urea-based creams for dry skin?

Research consistently supports the use of urea-containing emollients for improving skin hydration and barrier function in conditions such as eczema and ichthyosis. Studies have shown that urea concentrations of 5–10% are effective at increasing skin moisture content and reducing transepidermal water loss. The NHS and NICE both recommend emollients, including urea-based formulations, as a first-line treatment for dry skin conditions.

How Should You Use Balneum Plus Cream?

Balneum Plus Cream is applied directly to the skin. Always wash your hands before and after application, unless you are treating the hands themselves. Apply the cream gently — there is no need to rub it in vigorously, as this can aggravate sensitive or inflamed skin.

Avoid applying the cream near the eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes. Do not apply to broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin without first seeking medical advice.

What Is the Correct Dose of Balneum Plus Cream?

There is no fixed measured dose for topical emollients — the amount used depends on the size of the area being treated and the severity of dryness. As a general guide, apply enough to cover the affected area with a thin, even layer. Using more than necessary does not improve results and may increase the risk of mild irritation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Balneum Plus Cream?

The cream works best when applied to skin that has been recently washed and patted dry, as slightly damp skin absorbs emollients more effectively. Applying it after a bath or shower — while the skin is still slightly warm — can help lock in moisture and reduce the initial stinging sensation that some people notice. A bedtime application is also useful, as the skin has time to absorb the cream overnight without being disturbed by clothing or washing.

If you are using other topical treatments such as corticosteroid creams, apply the emollient first and wait at least 30 minutes before applying the steroid. This prevents the emollient from diluting or spreading the medicated product.

How Long Can You Use Balneum Plus Cream For?

Balneum Plus Cream is suitable for long-term use as part of a daily skincare routine, particularly for people managing chronic conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or ichthyosis. Emollients are not a cure — they manage symptoms — so ongoing use is often necessary to maintain skin comfort and barrier function. If you notice no improvement after two to four weeks of regular use, or if your symptoms worsen, speak to your GP or pharmacist about reviewing your treatment plan.

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 Balneum Plus Cream?

Most people tolerate Balneum Plus Cream well, but some individuals — particularly those with very sensitive or reactive skin — may notice mild side effects when they first start using it. These are usually short-lived and tend to settle as the skin adjusts to the cream.

  • Mild stinging or burning sensation immediately after application
  • Temporary redness or warmth at the application site
  • Mild itching that may occur briefly after applying the cream

Applying the cream to slightly damp skin after bathing can help reduce the initial stinging sensation. If these effects persist beyond the first few days of use, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Balneum Plus Cream?

Less commonly, some people may experience a more noticeable skin reaction. These are not typical but should be taken seriously if they occur.

  • Localised skin rash or hives at the application site
  • Increased skin irritation or worsening of existing dryness
  • Peeling or flaking of the skin in the treated area
  • Contact dermatitis — a reaction to one of the cream's ingredients

If any of these occur, stop using the cream and consult your pharmacist or GP. They may recommend patch testing to identify whether a specific ingredient is responsible.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Balneum Plus Cream?

Serious side effects from topical emollients are rare, but allergic reactions can occasionally occur. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include widespread rash, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or dizziness. These symptoms require immediate medical attention — stop using the cream and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department if you experience them.

It is also worth noting that emollient creams can make bath and shower surfaces slippery. Take care when bathing if you have applied the cream to large areas of the body, particularly in elderly patients or young children.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as temporary stinging or redness, no specific action is usually needed beyond monitoring the skin. If the reaction is more persistent or uncomfortable, stop using the cream and seek advice from your pharmacist before restarting. You can also report suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Never ignore a worsening skin condition. If your skin becomes significantly more inflamed, infected, or painful after starting the cream, seek medical advice promptly rather than continuing to self-treat.

Can Balneum Plus Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

No significant drug interactions have been identified for topical urea or lauromacrogols when used as directed. However, if you are using other topical treatments — such as corticosteroid creams, antifungal preparations, or medicated ointments — on the same area of skin, speak to your pharmacist about the correct order of application. Applying emollients and medicated creams at the same time can affect how well each product is absorbed.

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

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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