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Cetraben Moisturising Cream 475ml

Cetraben Moisturising Cream 475ml

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  • ✔️ Soothes and relieves dry, itchy, eczema-prone skin effectively
  • ✔️ Fragrance-free and lanolin-free — ideal for sensitive skin
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults, children, and babies from birth
  • ✔️ Large 475ml tub provides generous, long-lasting supply
  • ✔️ Can be used as a soap substitute for gentle daily cleansing

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What Is Cetraben Moisturising Cream and Who Is It For?

 

If you live with dry, itchy, or eczema-prone skin, you'll know how relentless it can feel — especially during colder months when central heating strips moisture from the air. Cetraben moisturising cream is a fragrance-free, paraffin-based emollient designed to restore and maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier. It's suitable for adults, children, and babies, and it's available over the counter without a prescription. The 475ml tub is a practical, generous size — ideal for families or anyone who needs to apply emollient frequently throughout the day. You can browse the full range of skin care products at Cured Pharmacy if you're looking for complementary options.

Dry skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis are extremely common in the UK. The NHS recommends emollients as a first-line treatment for these conditions, noting that they should be used regularly — even when the skin appears to be improving. Cetraben fits neatly into that daily routine.

 

How Does Cetraben Moisturising Cream Work?

 

Cetraben works through a straightforward but clinically effective mechanism. It doesn't treat the underlying cause of a skin condition — instead, it supports the skin's own barrier function, reducing water loss and keeping the surface soft and supple. Here's how it does that:

  • Occlusion: White soft paraffin (13.2% w/w) forms a semi-occlusive film over the skin, physically slowing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
  • Emolliency: Light liquid paraffin (10.5% w/w) softens and smooths the outer layers of the skin (the stratum corneum), reducing roughness and flaking.
  • Barrier restoration: Regular application helps rebuild a compromised skin barrier, which is particularly important in conditions like atopic eczema where the barrier is structurally weakened.
  • Itch relief: By keeping the skin hydrated, Cetraben reduces the dryness-driven itch cycle that many people with eczema experience.

Because it contains no active pharmaceutical ingredients beyond the emollient bases, it's well tolerated by most skin types — including sensitive and reactive skin.

 

Who Should Use Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

 

Cetraben is suitable for a wide range of people. It's particularly useful if you have a diagnosed dry skin condition, but it can also be used as a general daily moisturiser for anyone with dry or sensitive skin. Your GP or dermatologist may recommend it as part of a broader skin management plan.

  • Adults and children with atopic eczema or dermatitis
  • People with psoriasis who need regular emollient support
  • Babies and toddlers with dry or sensitive skin (always check with your GP first)
  • Anyone with ichthyosis or other chronic dry skin conditions

It is not suitable for use on infected skin or open wounds. If your skin is weeping, crusted, or showing signs of infection, speak to your GP before applying any emollient.

 

How Does Cetraben Compare to Other Emollient Creams?

 

Feature Cetraben Moisturising Cream 475ml E45 Cream 500ml
Active ingredients White soft paraffin 13.2%, light liquid paraffin 10.5% Light liquid paraffin 12.8%, white soft paraffin 14.5%, hypoallergenic anhydrous lanolin 1%
Fragrance-free Yes Yes
Contains lanolin No Yes (may cause reactions in lanolin-sensitive individuals)
Suitable for babies Yes Yes (with caution)

 

Is Cetraben Moisturising Cream Safe for Long-Term Use?

 

Yes — Cetraben moisturising cream is designed for regular, long-term use. Because it contains no steroids or active pharmaceutical agents, there is no risk of skin thinning or steroid-related side effects. The NHS advises that emollients should be used continuously, even during periods of remission, to help prevent flare-ups. If you're managing a condition like eczema in a child, you may also want to explore our baby and toddler range for additional suitable products.

Store the cream below 25°C, away from direct sunlight. Keep the lid tightly closed between uses to prevent contamination. Do not use the product past its expiry date.

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.

Cetraben Moisturising Cream 475ml specifications
Treatment category Emollient / Dry skin treatment
Mechanism of action Occlusive and emollient — reduces transepidermal water loss and softens the stratum corneum
Effective for Dry skin, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, ichthyosis
Suitable for Adults, children, and babies
Active ingredients White soft paraffin 13.2% w/w, light liquid paraffin 10.5% w/w
Pack size 475ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Emollient
Preparation Cream
Route of administration Topical (applied to the skin)

Specifications of Cetraben Moisturising Cream 475ml

 

What Is Cetraben Cream and What Is It Used For?

 

Cetraben Moisturising Cream is a topical emollient used to manage dry, itchy, and flaky skin. It is indicated for conditions including atopic eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and ichthyosis. It works by moisturising and softening the skin, helping to restore the skin's natural protective barrier. It can be used as a leave-on emollient or as a soap substitute when washing. The NHS recommends emollients as a cornerstone of dry skin management, advising that they be applied regularly and generously throughout the day.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Cetraben Cream?

 

Before using Cetraben, read the following carefully. Although it is a well-tolerated product, there are some important safety points to be aware of.

Do not use Cetraben if:

  • You are allergic to white soft paraffin, light liquid paraffin, or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • Your skin is infected, broken, or weeping — seek medical advice first
  • You have been advised by your doctor to avoid paraffin-based products

Warnings and precautions:

  • Fire hazard: Paraffin-based emollients can soak into clothing, bedding, and dressings, significantly increasing the risk of fire. Keep away from naked flames, cigarettes, and other ignition sources. Wash fabrics regularly.
  • Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes
  • If skin irritation or a rash develops after use, discontinue and consult your pharmacist or GP
  • Do not share this product with others
  • Always use a clean spatula or wash hands before dipping into the tub to avoid contamination

Drug interactions:

  • No significant drug interactions are known for topical emollients
  • If you are using a topical corticosteroid or other prescribed skin treatment, apply Cetraben first and wait at least 30 minutes before applying the other product, or follow your prescriber's instructions

 

How Should You Use Cetraben Cream?

 

Using Cetraben correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Apply it generously and regularly — don't wait until your skin feels tight or uncomfortable. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Wash your hands before use, or use a clean spatula to remove cream from the tub
  2. Apply a generous amount of cream to the affected area
  3. Smooth in the direction of hair growth to reduce the risk of folliculitis (blocked hair follicles)
  4. Allow the cream to absorb before dressing or applying other topical treatments
  5. Repeat as often as needed — typically two to four times daily, or as directed by your doctor
  6. When using as a soap substitute, apply to wet or dry skin, rinse off gently, and pat dry
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Dry skin / eczema Adults Apply liberally to affected areas 2–4 times daily
Dry skin / eczema Children and babies Apply liberally to affected areas 2–4 times daily
Soap substitute All ages Apply to skin, rinse off At each wash

If you're managing eczema alongside other skin concerns, you might find it helpful to explore our creams and ointments collection for additional treatment options recommended by pharmacists.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Cetraben Cream?

 

Cetraben is generally very well tolerated. Side effects are uncommon, but as with any topical product, some people may experience a reaction. If you notice anything unusual after applying it, stop use and speak to your pharmacist.

Common side effects:

  • Mild skin irritation or stinging immediately after application (usually temporary)
  • A feeling of greasiness on the skin

Less common side effects:

  • Folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) — more likely if cream is rubbed against the direction of hair growth
  • Contact dermatitis — a localised allergic reaction to one of the excipients
  • Skin rash or redness that worsens rather than improves

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are extremely rare with topical emollients. However, if you experience swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a sudden widespread rash, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

 

How Should You Store Cetraben Cream?

 

Proper storage keeps the product safe and effective for its full shelf life. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep out of direct sunlight
  • Keep the lid tightly closed after each use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tub
  • Do not freeze
  • Dispose of unused product responsibly — ask your pharmacist about safe disposal

If you're looking for other products to support your skin health routine, our skin care collection includes a range of emollients, barrier creams, and topical treatments suitable for various skin types and conditions.

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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 Cetraben Moisturising Cream 475ml online in the UK?

You can buy Cetraben Moisturising Cream 475ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £12.99. No prescription is needed as it is a General Sale List (GSL) medicine. It's a convenient option if you use emollients regularly and want a large, cost-effective tub delivered to your door.

How does Cetraben Moisturising Cream work in the body?

Cetraben works by forming a protective, semi-occlusive layer over the skin surface that slows down transepidermal water loss (TEWL). The white soft paraffin and light liquid paraffin in the formula soften and smooth the outer skin layers, helping to restore the skin's natural barrier. With regular use, this reduces dryness, flaking, and the itch-scratch cycle associated with conditions like eczema.

How do I use Cetraben Moisturising Cream step by step?

Apply a generous amount of Cetraben to the affected area, smoothing it in the direction of hair growth to reduce the risk of folliculitis. Use it two to four times daily, or as often as your skin needs it. It can also be used as a soap substitute — apply to wet or dry skin, then rinse off gently and pat dry.

How often should I apply Cetraben cream each day?

The NHS recommends applying emollients like Cetraben frequently — typically two to four times a day — and not waiting until your skin feels dry or uncomfortable before reapplying. Consistency is key; regular application helps maintain the skin barrier even during periods when your skin looks relatively clear. Your GP or pharmacist may advise a specific frequency based on your condition.

Is Cetraben Moisturising Cream safe for babies and young children?

Yes, Cetraben is suitable for use in babies, toddlers, and children, as well as adults. It is fragrance-free and does not contain lanolin, making it a gentle option for sensitive young skin. If your baby or child has a skin condition such as eczema, it's always a good idea to speak to your GP or health visitor before starting any new treatment. You can also explore our baby and toddler range for other suitable products.

Can I use Cetraben cream on my face?

Yes, Cetraben can be applied to the face as well as the body. Because it is fragrance-free and does not contain common sensitisers like lanolin or preservatives that frequently cause reactions, it is generally well tolerated on facial skin. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes when applying around the face.

What are the side effects of Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

Most people tolerate Cetraben very well, but some may experience mild, temporary stinging or a feeling of greasiness after application. Less commonly, folliculitis (blocked or inflamed hair follicles) can occur if the cream is applied against the direction of hair growth. If you develop a rash, increased redness, or any sign of an allergic reaction, stop using the product and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

What is the fire risk warning for Cetraben and paraffin-based emollients?

Paraffin-based emollients like Cetraben can soak into fabrics — including clothing, bedding, and bandages — and significantly increase the risk of those materials catching fire. The MHRA has issued guidance advising people using paraffin-based emollients to keep away from open flames, cigarettes, and other ignition sources. Washing fabrics regularly helps reduce the build-up of paraffin residue.

Who is eligible to use Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

Cetraben is suitable for adults, children, and babies with dry, itchy, or eczema-prone skin. It is available without a prescription as a General Sale List medicine. People with known allergies to paraffin or any other ingredient in the formulation should not use it, and those with infected or broken skin should seek medical advice before applying any emollient.

Does Cetraben cream contain steroids or fragrances?

No — Cetraben Moisturising Cream contains no steroids and no added fragrances. It is a plain emollient, which means it can be used long-term without the risk of skin thinning or steroid-related side effects. This makes it a suitable daily moisturiser for people who need ongoing skin barrier support.

How long can you use Cetraben Moisturising Cream for?

Cetraben can be used indefinitely as part of a long-term skin management routine. The NHS advises that emollients should be used continuously — even when the skin appears to be improving — to help prevent flare-ups of conditions like eczema. There is no maximum duration of use, as the product contains no ingredients associated with long-term harm when used topically.

What are the alternatives to Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

Common alternatives include Diprobase Cream, Doublebase Gel, E45 Cream, and Aveeno Cream. Each has a slightly different formulation — for example, E45 contains lanolin, which some people are sensitive to, while Doublebase uses isopropyl myristate as an additional emollient. You can browse our creams and ointments collection to compare available options. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most suitable product for your skin type.

Can Cetraben be used as a soap substitute?

Yes — Cetraben can be used as a soap substitute when washing, which is particularly useful for people with eczema or sensitive skin, as conventional soaps and shower gels can strip the skin of its natural oils. Apply a small amount to wet or dry skin, massage gently, then rinse off and pat dry. The NHS recommends using emollients as soap substitutes as part of a complete dry skin care routine.

What are the latest recommendations on emollient use for eczema?

Current NHS and NICE guidance continues to recommend emollients as the foundation of eczema management, emphasising frequent, generous application and the use of emollients as soap substitutes. Research supports the idea that early and consistent emollient use may help strengthen the skin barrier and reduce the frequency of eczema flare-ups over time. Always follow the advice of your GP or dermatologist for your specific condition.

How should I store Cetraben Moisturising Cream 475ml?

Store Cetraben below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the lid tightly closed after each use to prevent contamination, and always use a clean spatula or freshly washed hands when removing cream from the tub. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the packaging, and keep it out of the reach of children.

How Should You Use Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

Cetraben is designed to be applied directly to the skin as often as needed. Using it correctly — particularly the direction of application — helps you get the most benefit and reduces the risk of side effects like folliculitis. Always wash your hands before use, or use a clean spatula to remove cream from the tub to avoid introducing bacteria.

What Is the Correct Dose of Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

There is no fixed maximum dose for Cetraben — the amount you use will depend on the size of the area being treated and how dry your skin is. The key principle is to apply it generously and frequently. The NHS advises that people with eczema may need to use up to 500g of emollient per week for the body alone, so don't be afraid to use a good amount each time.

When Is the Best Time to Use Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

The best times to apply Cetraben are immediately after bathing or showering, when the skin is still slightly damp — this helps lock in moisture more effectively. You should also apply it before bed to allow it to work overnight, and again in the morning as part of your daily routine. If you are using a prescribed topical corticosteroid, apply Cetraben first and wait at least 30 minutes before applying the steroid cream, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

How Long Can You Use Cetraben Moisturising Cream For?

Cetraben can be used for as long as you need it — there is no recommended maximum duration of treatment. Because it contains no steroids or active pharmaceutical agents, it is safe for continuous, long-term use. The NHS recommends that people with chronic dry skin conditions such as eczema continue using emollients even during periods of remission, as this helps maintain the skin barrier and may reduce the frequency of flare-ups. If your skin condition changes significantly or does not improve with regular emollient use, speak to your GP or pharmacist for further assessment.

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 Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

Cetraben is generally very well tolerated, and most people use it without experiencing any side effects at all. However, as with any topical product, a small number of people may notice mild reactions, particularly when first starting to use it.

  • Mild stinging or tingling immediately after application — usually temporary and settles within a few minutes
  • A feeling of greasiness or heaviness on the skin, especially if a large amount is applied
  • Skin that feels warm or flushed shortly after application

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

Less commonly, some people may experience reactions that require attention. These are not dangerous in most cases, but you should stop using the product and seek advice if they occur.

  • Folliculitis — inflammation or blockage of hair follicles, which can appear as small red bumps or pustules. This is more likely if the cream is applied against the direction of hair growth.
  • Contact dermatitis — a localised allergic or irritant reaction causing redness, itching, or a rash at the site of application
  • Increased skin redness or worsening of the existing skin condition

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Cetraben Moisturising Cream?

Serious side effects from Cetraben are extremely rare. The most significant risk associated with paraffin-based emollients is not a skin reaction but a fire hazard. Paraffin can soak into clothing, bedding, and dressings, making them highly flammable. The MHRA has issued safety guidance on this risk — always keep away from open flames, cigarettes, and other ignition sources when using paraffin-based products.

Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction) is theoretically possible but has not been commonly reported with Cetraben. Signs would include sudden swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash. If this occurs, call 999 immediately.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Cetraben?

If you notice mild irritation or greasiness, try applying a thinner layer less frequently and see if this helps. For folliculitis, ensure you are always smoothing the cream in the direction of hair growth. If a rash, increased redness, or any sign of an allergic reaction develops, stop using Cetraben and speak to your pharmacist or GP as soon as possible. You should also report any suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Cetraben Moisturising Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

No significant drug interactions are known for Cetraben Moisturising Cream when used topically. However, if you are using a prescribed topical treatment — such as a corticosteroid, calcineurin inhibitor, or antibiotic cream — on the same area of skin, timing matters. Apply Cetraben first and wait at least 30 minutes before applying the other product, or follow the specific instructions given by your prescriber. This prevents the emollient from diluting or interfering with the absorption of your prescribed medicine.

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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