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Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream 100g

Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream 100g

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  • ✔️ Soothes itchy skin fast with cooling menthol action
  • ✔️ Relieves itch from eczema, dry skin, and insect bites
  • ✔️ Non-steroidal formula suitable for adults and children
  • ✔️ Aqueous cream base moisturises and softens dry skin
  • ✔️ Compact 100g tube — easy to apply anywhere on the go

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What Is Menthol Cream for Itching?

 

If you've ever dealt with persistent itchy skin, you'll know how distracting — and exhausting — it can be. Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream is a topical preparation designed to provide fast, soothing relief from itching caused by a range of skin conditions. It contains 1% menthol dispersed in a simple aqueous cream base, making it gentle enough for everyday use on most skin types. You can find it alongside other creams and ointments at Cured Pharmacy, available without a prescription.

Itching — medically known as pruritus — is one of the most common skin complaints in the UK. It can arise from eczema, dry skin, insect bites, or allergic reactions, among other causes. Dermacool offers a straightforward, non-steroidal option for managing that itch without the need for a GP visit.

 

How Does Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream Work?

 

Menthol works through a well-understood mechanism involving specific nerve receptors in the skin. Here's what happens when you apply it:

  • Menthol binds to TRPM8 receptors — cold-sensitive ion channels found in sensory nerve endings in the skin.
  • This triggers a cooling sensation, which effectively competes with and overrides the itch signal being transmitted to the brain.
  • The result is a counter-irritant effect: the brain processes the cooling stimulus instead of the itch, giving you noticeable relief.
  • The aqueous cream base simultaneously acts as an emollient, helping to hydrate and soften dry skin — a common underlying trigger for itching.

This dual action — cooling the itch and moisturising the skin — is what makes menthol-based preparations a popular choice among patients and clinicians alike for managing mild to moderate pruritus.

 

Who Should Use Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

 

Dermacool is suitable for a broad range of people experiencing itchy skin. It's particularly useful when the itch is related to dryness, mild inflammation, or irritation rather than an active infection. That said, it's always worth checking with your pharmacist if you're unsure whether it's right for your specific situation.

It may be appropriate for you if you experience any of the following:

  • Itching associated with eczema or dermatitis
  • Dry, flaky skin causing persistent irritation
  • Insect bites or mild allergic skin reactions
  • Generalised pruritus not caused by an underlying systemic condition

It is generally suitable for adults and children over 2 years of age. It is not intended for use on broken, weeping, or infected skin.

 

How Does Dermacool Compare to Calamine Lotion?

 

Feature Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream Calamine Lotion
Active ingredient Menthol 1% Calamine (zinc oxide)
Mechanism Counter-irritant (cooling sensation) Mild astringent, soothing
Moisturising effect Yes — aqueous cream base No — can be drying
Texture Cream — easy to apply and absorb Liquid lotion — can leave residue

 

Is Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream Suitable for Sensitive Skin?

 

Menthol cream for itching is generally well tolerated, but if you have particularly sensitive or reactive skin, it's sensible to do a small patch test before applying it more widely. Apply a pea-sized amount to the inner forearm, wait 24 hours, and check for any redness or irritation before using it on larger areas. If you're managing a broader skin condition and looking for additional support, our skin care range includes a variety of products suited to different skin types and concerns.

Store Dermacool below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of the reach of children. Do not use it beyond the printed 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.

Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream 100g specifications
Treatment category Antipruritic / Emollient
Mechanism of action Counter-irritant via TRPM8 receptor activation; emollient base moisturises skin
Effective for Itching, pruritus, dry and irritated skin
Suitable for Adults and children over 2 years
Active ingredient Menthol 1% w/w
Pack size 100g
Strength 1% menthol
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Topical antipruritic
Preparation Cream
Route of administration Topical (cutaneous)

Specifications of Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream 100g

 

What Is Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream and What Is It Used For?

 

Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream is an over-the-counter topical preparation used to relieve itching and irritation of the skin. It contains menthol at a concentration of 1% w/w in an aqueous (water-based) cream base. The NHS recognises itching as a symptom that can significantly affect quality of life, and topical antipruritics like this cream are a commonly recommended first-line option for mild to moderate cases.

It is used to manage itching associated with conditions such as eczema, contact dermatitis, dry skin (xerosis), insect bites, and mild allergic skin reactions. It does not treat the underlying cause of itching — rather, it provides symptomatic relief while the skin heals or while other treatments take effect.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

 

Before applying this cream, there are some important contraindications and precautions to be aware of:

  • Do not use on broken, infected, or weeping skin.
  • Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
  • Do not apply to large areas of the body without medical advice.
  • Not recommended for children under 2 years of age.
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your GP or pharmacist before use.
  • Do not use if you are allergic to menthol or any other ingredient in the formulation.
  • Avoid applying near the face of infants or young children, as menthol can cause breathing difficulties in this age group.

In terms of drug interactions, no significant interactions with other medicines have been identified for topical menthol at this concentration. However, you should still inform your pharmacist of any other topical products you are using on the same area of skin.

  • No clinically significant drug interactions are currently documented for topical menthol 1%.
  • Avoid using alongside other topical preparations on the same skin area unless advised by a healthcare professional.

 

How Should You Use Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

 

Using this cream correctly will help you get the most benefit from it. Follow these steps each time you apply it:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application.
  2. Clean and gently pat dry the affected area of skin.
  3. Squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertip.
  4. Apply gently to the itchy area using light, circular motions.
  5. Allow the cream to absorb fully before covering with clothing or dressings.
  6. Repeat up to three or four times daily, or as directed by your pharmacist.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Itching / pruritus Adults Small amount to affected area 2–4 times daily
Itching / pruritus Children (2–12 years) Small amount to affected area 2–3 times daily
Dry skin-related itch Adults and children over 2 Small amount to affected area As needed, up to 4 times daily

If you are also managing an allergy that is contributing to your skin symptoms, speak to your pharmacist about whether an antihistamine alongside this cream might be appropriate.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

 

Like all medicines, Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the area of application.

Common side effects:

  • Mild tingling or cooling sensation at the application site (this is expected and part of how the product works)
  • Temporary redness of the skin
  • Mild skin irritation

Less common side effects:

  • Contact dermatitis (allergic skin reaction to menthol or cream base)
  • Burning or stinging sensation, particularly on sensitive skin
  • Skin dryness with prolonged use

Stop using the cream and seek medical advice if you notice worsening redness, swelling, blistering, or any signs of an allergic reaction such as rash spreading beyond the application site.

 

How Should You Store Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of the product. Follow these guidelines:

  • 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 for safe disposal.

If you're looking for further support with skin health, our skin care collection includes a range of emollients, barrier creams, and topical treatments to suit different needs.

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 Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream online in the UK?

You can buy Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream directly from Cured Pharmacy, a UK GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for just £6.58. It is available without a prescription as a General Sale List medicine. Simply add it to your basket and select your preferred delivery option at checkout.

How does Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream work in the body?

Menthol activates TRPM8 cold-sensitive receptors in the skin's sensory nerve endings, producing a cooling sensation that competes with and overrides the itch signal travelling to the brain. This counter-irritant effect provides temporary but meaningful relief from itching. The aqueous cream base also acts as an emollient, helping to hydrate and soothe dry skin that may be contributing to the itch.

How do I apply Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream step by step?

Start by washing your hands and gently cleaning the affected area. Apply a small amount of cream to your fingertip and massage it lightly into the itchy skin using circular motions until absorbed. Repeat up to three or four times daily, or as directed by your pharmacist.

How often can I use Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream each day?

Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream can be applied two to four times daily to the affected area in adults, and two to three times daily in children aged 2 and over. Always follow the directions on the packaging and do not exceed the recommended frequency. If your symptoms are not improving after a week of regular use, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

What are the side effects of Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

Most people tolerate Dermacool well, but some may experience mild tingling, temporary redness, or a cooling sensation at the application site — these are expected effects. Less commonly, skin irritation or contact dermatitis may occur, particularly in those with sensitive skin. If you notice worsening redness, blistering, or signs of an allergic reaction, stop use and seek medical advice promptly.

Who is Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream suitable for?

Dermacool is suitable for adults and children over 2 years of age who are experiencing itching from conditions such as eczema, dry skin, insect bites, or mild allergic reactions. It is not suitable for use on broken, infected, or weeping skin. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a complex skin condition, consult your pharmacist or GP before use.

Can I use Dermacool Menthol Cream on my child?

Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream can be used on children aged 2 years and over, applied two to three times daily to the affected area. It should not be used on children under 2 years, and you should avoid applying it near the face of young children as menthol can cause breathing difficulties in this age group. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure about using it on a child.

Can I use Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream. While topical menthol at low concentrations is generally considered low-risk, it is always best to seek professional guidance during pregnancy. Your pharmacist can advise on the safest options for managing itchy skin at this time.

What are the alternatives to Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream for itchy skin?

Alternatives include calamine lotion, which has mild soothing properties, or hydrocortisone 1% cream for itch associated with inflammation or allergic reactions. Plain emollients are also useful for dry skin-related itching. You can explore a range of options in our creams and ointments collection to find the most suitable product for your needs.

How long can I use Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream for?

Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream is suitable for short-term use to manage itching symptoms. If your symptoms persist beyond one to two weeks without improvement, or if they worsen at any point, you should consult your GP or pharmacist. Prolonged use without medical review is not recommended, as persistent itching may indicate an underlying condition requiring further investigation.

What happens if I accidentally get Dermacool Menthol Cream in my eyes?

If the cream comes into contact with your eyes, rinse immediately and thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Do not rub your eyes. If irritation, redness, or pain persists after rinsing, seek medical attention promptly. For general eye health products, visit our eye care collection.

Does Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream interact with other medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been identified for topical menthol 1% at this concentration. However, you should avoid applying multiple topical products to the same area of skin simultaneously unless advised by a healthcare professional, as this can affect absorption and increase the risk of irritation. Always inform your pharmacist of any other topical treatments you are using.

Is Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream a steroid cream?

No — Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream is not a steroid cream. It contains menthol as its active ingredient, which works as a counter-irritant rather than an anti-inflammatory agent. This makes it a useful non-steroidal option for managing itch, particularly for those who prefer to avoid topical corticosteroids or who are using them on a limited basis.

What is the latest research on menthol cream for itching?

Research continues to support the role of topical menthol as an effective antipruritic agent, with studies confirming its action on TRPM8 cold receptors as the primary mechanism of itch relief. It is well established in clinical practice as a safe, non-steroidal option for mild to moderate pruritus. Your pharmacist or GP can advise on the most up-to-date treatment options if your symptoms are complex or persistent.

Can I use Dermacool Menthol Cream on my face?

Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream should be used with caution on the face and should never be applied near the eyes, nostrils, or mouth. Facial skin is often more sensitive than skin elsewhere on the body, so a patch test is advisable before wider application. If you are experiencing itching specifically on your face, speak to your pharmacist about the most appropriate product for that area, as part of a broader skin care approach.

How Should You Use Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream?

Dermacool 1% Menthol in Aqueous Cream is for external use only. Always wash your hands before and after applying the cream, and make sure the skin area is clean and dry before application.

Follow these steps each time you use it:

What Is the Correct Dose of Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

The correct dose depends on your age and the condition being treated. Always use the smallest amount needed to cover the affected area, and do not apply to large areas of the body without medical advice.

When Is the Best Time to Use Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

There is no single fixed time of day that is required for application. Most people find it helpful to apply the cream when itching is at its most intense — this is often in the evening or at night, when skin tends to be drier and itch sensations can feel more pronounced.

Applying a dose after bathing or showering, when the skin is clean and slightly warm, can also help the cream absorb more effectively. If you are using other topical products on the same area, allow each one to absorb fully before applying the next, and check with your pharmacist about the correct order of application.

How Long Can You Use Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream For?

Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream is intended for short-term symptomatic relief. Most people use it for a few days to two weeks while the underlying cause of itching resolves or while other treatments take effect.

If your symptoms have not improved after two weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the cream and consult your GP or pharmacist. Persistent or widespread itching without an obvious cause should always be investigated by a healthcare professional, as it can sometimes indicate an underlying systemic condition.

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 Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

Most people use Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream without experiencing any troublesome side effects. The most frequently reported effects are directly related to how menthol works — they are expected and usually mild.

  • Cooling or tingling sensation at the application site
  • Mild temporary redness of the skin
  • Slight stinging immediately after application, particularly on sensitive skin

These effects typically settle within a few minutes of application and do not usually require you to stop using the product. If the tingling or cooling sensation is uncomfortable, try applying a smaller amount of cream.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

Less commonly, some people may experience a more pronounced skin reaction. These effects are not typical but are worth being aware of before you start using the cream.

  • Contact dermatitis — an allergic skin reaction causing redness, itching, or a rash beyond the application site
  • Burning sensation that does not settle after a few minutes
  • Skin dryness or flaking with prolonged or frequent use
  • Localised swelling at the application site

If you notice any of these effects, reduce the frequency of application and monitor your skin closely. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop using the cream and speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

Serious side effects from topical menthol at 1% concentration are rare. However, you should be aware of the signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which — though very uncommon — can occur with any topical product.

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following after applying the cream: sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing or swallowing; a widespread skin rash or hives; dizziness or feeling faint. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve — call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream?

For mild side effects such as tingling or temporary redness, no specific action is needed beyond monitoring. If you experience skin irritation that does not resolve, wash the affected area with cool water and mild soap to remove any remaining cream, then allow the skin to settle before deciding whether to continue use.

You can report suspected side effects from any medicine — including over-the-counter products — to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps regulators monitor the safety of medicines used in the UK.

Can Dermacool 1% Menthol Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant interactions between topical menthol 1% and other medicines have been identified. However, applying multiple topical products to the same area of skin at the same time is generally not recommended, as it can affect how each product is absorbed and may increase the risk of local irritation.

If you are using a topical corticosteroid, antibiotic cream, or any other prescribed topical treatment on the same area, ask your pharmacist about the safest way to use them together. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines — including over-the-counter and herbal products — that you are currently using.

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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