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Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub - 30g

Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub - 30g

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  • ✔️ Gently relieves nasal congestion in babies and toddlers
  • ✔️ Contains natural eucalyptus, lavender, and rosemary oils
  • ✔️ Supports easier breathing, especially at night
  • ✔️ Free from camphor and pharmaceutical medicines
  • ✔️ Compact 30g tub ideal for home and travel use

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What Is Vapour Rub for Babies and How Can It Help?

 

When your little one is bunged up with a cold, it can be distressing for both of you. Broken sleep, difficulty feeding, and that unmistakable snuffly breathing — it all adds up. Vapour rub for babies has long been a go-to option for parents looking for gentle, non-medicated relief, and Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub is designed with exactly that in mind. Available in a handy 30g tub, it's a topical rub formulated to help ease nasal congestion in babies and young children using a blend of natural aromatic oils. You can browse our full range of baby and toddler products if you're looking for additional support during those tricky cold and cough seasons.

Colds are incredibly common in young children — the NHS notes that children can have up to eight colds a year, particularly in their first few years of life. While most colds resolve on their own, the congestion they cause can make feeding and sleeping much harder. That's where a product like this can make a real difference to your daily routine.

 

How Does Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub Work?

 

The rub works through aromatherapy-style vapour release. When you apply it to your baby's chest or back and gently massage it in, the warmth of the skin activates the aromatic oils, releasing gentle vapours into the air around your child's face. These vapours help to open up the nasal passages, making it easier for your baby to breathe — particularly useful at night when congestion tends to feel worse.

  • Eucalyptus oil — a well-known decongestant aromatic, traditionally used to support easier breathing
  • Lavender oil — known for its calming properties, which may also help settle a restless baby
  • Rosemary oil — another aromatic oil with a long history of use in respiratory comfort preparations

It's worth noting that this product works through inhalation of vapours rather than any direct pharmacological action on the airways. It does not contain any medicines or active pharmaceutical ingredients in the traditional sense.

 

Who Should Use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

 

This product is designed for parents and carers looking for a gentle, non-medicated way to help relieve congestion in babies and young children during a cold. It's particularly useful at bedtime, when nasal congestion can disrupt sleep for the whole family. Always check the minimum age recommendation on the product label before use.

  • Babies and young children with nasal congestion due to a cold
  • Parents seeking a non-medicated, topical option
  • Children who struggle to sleep due to a blocked nose
  • Families wanting a gentle aromatic rub as part of a bedtime routine during illness

 

How Does Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub Compare to Other Options?

 

Feature Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub Saline Nasal Drops
Method of action Aromatic vapour release via skin Direct nasal irrigation
Application Chest or back massage Drops into each nostril
Contains medicines? No — natural aromatic oils only No — saline solution only
Suitable for sleep support? Yes — particularly at bedtime Can be used before sleep

 

Is Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub Safe to Store at Home?

 

Yes — this product should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and kept well out of reach of children. Do not apply near the eyes, mouth, or directly under the nose. If your child has sensitive skin or a known allergy to any of the aromatic oils listed in the ingredients, do not use this product without first speaking to your pharmacist or GP. You might also find our cold and flu collection helpful for additional products to support your family through the colder months.

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.

Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub 30g specifications
Treatment category Cold and congestion relief (baby and toddler)
Mechanism of action Aromatic vapour release from natural oils applied topically
Effective for Nasal congestion associated with colds in babies and young children
Suitable for Babies and young children (check label for minimum age)
Active ingredients Eucalyptus oil, Lavender oil, Rosemary oil
Pack size 30g
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Preparation Topical rub / ointment
Route of administration Topical (chest and back)

Specifications of Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub 30g

 

What Is Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub and What Is It Used For?

 

Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub is a topical aromatic rub containing natural essential oils — eucalyptus, lavender, and rosemary — designed to help relieve nasal congestion in babies and young children. It is not a medicine in the pharmacological sense; rather, it works by releasing gentle aromatic vapours when applied to the skin, which may help support easier breathing during a cold. The NHS advises that most childhood colds clear up on their own within 7 to 10 days, but in the meantime, products like this can help make your child more comfortable, particularly at night.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

 

Before using this product, read the label carefully and check the minimum recommended age. Not all vapour rubs are suitable for very young infants, so this step is important. If your child has any known skin sensitivities or allergies to essential oils, speak to your pharmacist before use.

Do not use this product if:

  • Your child is below the minimum age stated on the product label
  • Your child has a known allergy to eucalyptus oil, lavender oil, rosemary oil, or any other listed ingredient
  • Your child has broken, irritated, or inflamed skin in the area of application
  • Your child has a history of febrile seizures — seek GP advice first

Warnings:

  • Do not apply to the face, near the eyes, or directly under the nose
  • Do not use near an open flame or heat source
  • Keep out of reach of children
  • For external use only — do not ingest
  • If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 5 days, consult your GP

Known drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant drug interactions are known for topical aromatic rubs of this type
  • If your child is using any prescribed topical treatments, check with your pharmacist before applying this product to the same area

 

How Should You Use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

 

Using this product correctly is straightforward, but it's worth taking a moment to follow the steps below to ensure it's both safe and effective for your child. Always read the full product label before first use.

  1. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before use
  2. Open the tub and take a small amount of rub — a pea-sized amount is usually sufficient
  3. Apply gently to your child's chest or upper back
  4. Massage in using slow, circular movements until absorbed
  5. Dress your child in loose, comfortable clothing after application
  6. Wash your hands again after use
Indication Age Group Amount Frequency
Nasal congestion from a cold Babies and young children (check label) Small amount (pea-sized) Up to 3 times daily, including at bedtime

If you're looking for additional support during cold season, our ear, nose and throat range includes a variety of products that may complement this rub.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

 

Side effects with this type of product are uncommon, but as with any topical preparation, some children may react to the aromatic oils. Always do a small patch test on a discreet area of skin before full application if your child has sensitive skin.

Common side effects:

  • Mild skin redness at the application site
  • Temporary tingling or warming sensation on the skin

Less common side effects:

  • Contact dermatitis (skin irritation or rash) — stop use immediately if this occurs
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally contacts the eyes — rinse thoroughly with water
  • Sneezing or mild respiratory irritation if applied too close to the face

If your child shows signs of an allergic reaction — such as swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency medical attention immediately. The NHS provides clear guidance on recognising allergic reactions and when to call 999.

 

How Should You Store Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

 

Proper storage helps maintain the quality and safety of this product. Follow these simple guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Always replace the lid securely after use
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tub
  • Do not store in the bathroom — humidity can affect the product

For more products to support your family's health during cold and flu season, explore our cold and flu collection at Cured Pharmacy.

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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 Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub online in the UK?

You can buy Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub 30g directly from Cured Pharmacy online for just £4.99, with fast UK delivery. It's available without a prescription as an over-the-counter product. Browse our full baby and toddler range for more products to support your little one's health.

How does Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub work in the body?

When applied to the chest or back, the natural aromatic oils in the rub — eucalyptus, lavender, and rosemary — are warmed by the skin and release gentle vapours. These vapours are inhaled by your baby, helping to open nasal passages and ease the sensation of congestion. It works through aromatherapy rather than any direct pharmacological action on the airways.

How do I use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub step by step?

Take a small, pea-sized amount of rub and apply it gently to your baby's chest or upper back. Massage in using slow, circular movements, then dress your child in loose clothing. Always wash your hands before and after application, and never apply the rub to the face or near the eyes.

What age is Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub suitable for?

Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub is formulated for babies and young children, but you should always check the minimum age stated on the product label before use. If your child is very young or premature, speak to your GP or health visitor before applying any topical product. When in doubt, your pharmacist can advise on the most appropriate option.

Can I use a vapour rub for babies on a newborn?

Most vapour rubs, including this one, are not recommended for newborns without first seeking medical advice. Always check the minimum age on the label and consult your GP or health visitor if your baby is under three months old. The NHS advises that saline nasal drops may be a safer first option for very young infants with congestion.

What are the side effects of Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

Side effects are uncommon but can include mild skin redness, a tingling sensation at the application site, or contact dermatitis in children with sensitive skin. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction — such as swelling, hives, or breathing difficulty — stop use immediately and seek urgent medical attention. A patch test on a small area of skin before full application is a sensible precaution.

How do I manage side effects of Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

If your child develops skin irritation, wash the area gently with mild soap and water and discontinue use. For eye contact, rinse thoroughly with clean water for several minutes. If irritation persists or you are concerned, contact your pharmacist or GP for further guidance.

What is the best time to use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

This rub is particularly useful at bedtime, when nasal congestion tends to feel worse and can disrupt your baby's sleep. You can also apply it during the day — up to three times daily — whenever your child seems uncomfortable due to a blocked nose. Applying it as part of a calm bedtime routine may also help settle your baby.

How long can you use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub for?

This product is intended for short-term use during a cold, typically no longer than 5 days. If your child's symptoms persist beyond this time, worsen, or are accompanied by a high temperature, difficulty breathing, or unusual drowsiness, consult your GP promptly. The NHS recommends seeking medical advice if a child's cold does not improve within 3 weeks.

Who is eligible to use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

This product is suitable for babies and young children who are experiencing nasal congestion due to a cold, provided they meet the minimum age requirement on the label. It is not suitable for children with known allergies to any of the aromatic oils in the formula. Parents of children with underlying respiratory conditions such as asthma should speak to their GP before use.

Can I use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub if my baby has eczema?

If your baby has eczema or any other skin condition, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before applying this or any topical product. Essential oils can sometimes aggravate sensitive or inflamed skin. A patch test is strongly recommended, and you should avoid applying the rub to any areas of broken or irritated skin.

What happens if I accidentally apply too much Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

Applying more than the recommended amount is unlikely to cause serious harm, but it may increase the risk of skin irritation or make the vapour scent overpowering for your baby. If you are concerned, wipe away the excess with a damp cloth and monitor your child. Contact your pharmacist or NHS 111 if you have any worries.

What are alternatives to Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub for baby congestion?

Alternatives include saline nasal drops, which can help loosen mucus in the nose, and a cool-mist humidifier in the baby's room to add moisture to the air. For older children, steam inhalation under adult supervision may also help. You can explore our ear, nose and throat collection for more options.

Does Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub contain any medicines or steroids?

No — this product does not contain any pharmaceutical medicines, steroids, or synthetic active ingredients. It is formulated with natural aromatic oils only: eucalyptus, lavender, and rosemary. It works through the inhalation of aromatic vapours rather than any direct pharmacological mechanism.

What are the latest recommendations on using vapour rubs for babies?

Current NHS guidance recommends avoiding medicated decongestants in children under 6 years old, making gentle aromatic rubs like this one a popular alternative for parents. Always follow the product label and consult your pharmacist if you are unsure whether a product is appropriate for your child's age and condition. Products containing camphor should be avoided in young children, but Colief Breathe Easy does not contain camphor.

How Should You Use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

Using this rub correctly makes all the difference. Always read the product label in full before applying it to your child for the first time, and if your baby has sensitive skin, consider doing a small patch test on the inner arm at least 30 minutes before full application.

Follow these steps each time you use the product:

Never apply this product to broken, irritated, or inflamed skin. Keep it well away from the eyes, mouth, and nostrils at all times.

What Is the Correct Dose of Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

There is no fixed "dose" in the traditional sense for a topical aromatic rub, but using the right amount is still important. Too little may reduce effectiveness; too much can cause skin irritation or make the vapour overwhelming for a young child.

Do not apply more than three times in a 24-hour period. If you are unsure whether the amount you are using is appropriate, speak to your pharmacist for guidance.

When Is the Best Time to Use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

Bedtime is the most effective time to apply this rub. Nasal congestion often feels worse when a child is lying down, making it harder for them to settle and sleep. Applying the rub as part of a calm, consistent bedtime routine — after a warm bath, for example — can help your baby relax and breathe more comfortably through the night.

You can also apply it during the day if your child is visibly uncomfortable due to congestion, particularly before nap times. Just make sure you are not exceeding the maximum of three applications per day.

How Long Can You Use Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub For?

This product is designed for short-term use only, typically for the duration of a cold — usually no more than 5 days. Most childhood colds resolve within 7 to 10 days according to NHS guidance, and this rub is intended to provide comfort during that period rather than as an ongoing treatment.

If your child's symptoms have not improved after 5 days, or if they develop a high temperature, difficulty breathing, a persistent cough, or seem unusually unwell, stop using the product and consult your GP promptly. 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 Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

For most babies and young children, this product is well tolerated and side effects are uncommon. However, as with any topical preparation containing aromatic oils, some children — particularly those with sensitive skin — may experience a mild reaction at the application site.

  • Mild skin redness or flushing at the area of application
  • A temporary tingling or warming sensation on the skin
  • Slight increase in sneezing immediately after application

These effects are generally mild and short-lived. If they persist or cause your child distress, wipe away the product with a damp cloth and discontinue use.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

Less commonly, some children may develop a more noticeable skin reaction. This is more likely in children with a history of eczema, contact dermatitis, or known sensitivities to essential oils.

  • Contact dermatitis — a red, itchy, or blistering rash at the application site
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally contacts the eyes
  • Mild respiratory irritation if applied too close to the face or nostrils
  • Skin dryness or peeling with repeated use on sensitive skin

If your child develops a rash or skin reaction, stop using the product immediately and wash the affected area gently with mild soap and water. Contact your pharmacist or GP if the reaction does not settle within 24 hours.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub?

Serious side effects are rare with this type of product, but it is important to know what to look out for. An allergic reaction — known as anaphylaxis — is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Seek emergency medical help (call 999) if your child shows any of the following signs after using this product:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Hives or widespread skin rash
  • Sudden drowsiness or limpness
  • Vomiting or collapse

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

For mild reactions such as skin redness or tingling, simply remove the product by wiping the area with a clean, damp cloth. Monitor your child and do not reapply. For eye contact, rinse the eye thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water for at least 10 minutes and seek pharmacist advice if irritation continues.

For any reaction that concerns you — even if it seems minor — contact your pharmacist or GP. You can also call NHS 111 for non-emergency medical advice at any time of day or night. Never ignore a reaction that seems to be worsening.

Can Colief Breathe Easy Vapour Rub Interact With Other Products?

No clinically significant drug interactions are known for this topical aromatic rub. However, you should avoid applying it to the same area of skin as any other topical treatment your child may be using, such as prescribed emollients or steroid creams, without first checking with your pharmacist. Using multiple topical products simultaneously can sometimes increase the risk of skin irritation or alter how each product is absorbed.

If your child is receiving any prescribed treatment for a skin condition or respiratory illness, always inform your pharmacist before introducing a new topical product. 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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