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Dermalo Bath Emollient 500ml

Dermalo Bath Emollient 500ml

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  • ✔️ Soothes dry, itchy skin caused by eczema and psoriasis
  • ✔️ Restores the skin's natural moisture barrier with regular use
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults, children, and babies
  • ✔️ Contains liquid paraffin to lock moisture into the skin
  • ✔️ Gentle enough for daily use on sensitive skin

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What Is Dermalo Bath Emollient and How Does It Help Dry Skin?

 

If you live with eczema, psoriasis, or persistently dry skin, you'll know how uncomfortable — and sometimes relentless — the itching and tightness can feel. Dermalo bath emollient is a clinically recognised bath additive designed to soothe and moisturise skin that has lost its natural protective barrier. Manufactured by Dermal, it contains two active ingredients: liquid paraffin (65%) and acetylated wool alcohols (5%), which work together to coat the skin with a protective, moisture-retaining film during bathing. At just £4.79 for a 500ml bottle, it offers an accessible and effective option for everyday skin management.

Dry skin conditions are extremely common in the UK. The NHS estimates that eczema alone affects around one in five children and one in twelve adults. Emollient therapy — including bath additives — forms a cornerstone of managing these conditions, helping to reduce flare-ups and maintain skin comfort between treatments. You can explore a wider range of skin care products at Cured Pharmacy if you're building a complete dry skin routine.

 

How Does Dermalo Bath Emollient Work on the Skin?

 

The mechanism is straightforward but genuinely effective. When you add Dermalo to warm bath water, the liquid paraffin and acetylated wool alcohols disperse throughout the water and deposit onto the skin's surface as you soak. This creates a thin, occlusive layer that slows water loss from the skin — a process known as transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Reducing TEWL is key to managing dry skin conditions, because it's this moisture loss that drives the dryness, cracking, and itch cycle.

  • Liquid paraffin forms an occlusive film on the skin surface, trapping moisture in the upper layers of the epidermis.
  • Acetylated wool alcohols act as emulsifying agents, helping the oil disperse evenly in water and improving skin feel.
  • Together, they soften and hydrate the stratum corneum — the outermost layer of skin — reducing tightness and irritation.
  • Regular use helps restore the skin's natural lipid barrier, which is often compromised in conditions like atopic eczema.

 

Who Should Use Dermalo Bath Emollient?

 

Dermalo Bath Emollient is suitable for a wide range of people. It's particularly well-suited to those managing chronic dry skin conditions, but it can also benefit anyone whose skin feels dry, tight, or irritated — whether from environmental factors, ageing, or frequent washing. It is suitable for use in adults, children, and babies, making it a practical choice for families.

  • Adults and children with atopic eczema or dermatitis
  • People with psoriasis or ichthyosis seeking gentle daily moisturisation
  • Babies and toddlers with dry or sensitive skin (under medical guidance)
  • Elderly individuals with age-related skin dryness
  • Anyone with dry skin caused by frequent bathing, hard water, or cold weather

If you're also managing skin conditions in young children, our baby and toddler range includes further products suited to sensitive skin.

 

How Does Dermalo Bath Emollient Compare to Other Bath Emollients?

 

Feature Dermalo Bath Emollient Oilatum Bath Additive
Active ingredients Liquid paraffin 65%, acetylated wool alcohols 5% Light liquid paraffin 63.4%
Suitable for babies Yes Yes (Oilatum Junior available)
Contains wool alcohols Yes — avoid if lanolin-sensitive No
OTC availability Yes Yes
Price (500ml approx.) £4.79 £5.50–£7.00 (varies)

 

Is Dermalo Bath Emollient Suitable for Sensitive or Allergy-Prone Skin?

 

Most people tolerate Dermalo Bath Emollient well, but it's worth noting that it contains acetylated wool alcohols, which are derived from lanolin. If you have a known sensitivity to lanolin or wool-derived ingredients, you should choose an alternative emollient and speak to your pharmacist or GP first. For those without lanolin sensitivity, Dermalo bath emollient is generally well tolerated even on sensitive skin.

Store the product below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of reach of children. Do not use near open flames — emollients soaked into fabric can be a fire hazard. If you're unsure whether this product is right for your skin type, our creams and ointments collection includes a range of alternatives your pharmacist can help you compare.

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.

Dermalo Bath Emollient 500ml specifications
Treatment category Emollient / Dry skin treatment
Mechanism of action Occlusive moisturiser — reduces transepidermal water loss
Effective for Eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, dry and itchy skin
Suitable for Adults, children, and babies
Active ingredients Liquid paraffin 65%, acetylated wool alcohols 5%
Pack size 500ml
UK classification General Sale / P (Pharmacy)
Drug class Emollient
Preparation Liquid bath additive
Route of administration Topical (bath additive)

Specifications of Dermalo Bath Emollient 500ml

 

What Is Dermalo Bath Emollient and What Is It Used For?

 

Dermalo Bath Emollient is a topical emollient bath additive used to relieve the symptoms of dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It is indicated for conditions including atopic eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, and other dry skin disorders. The product works by adding a moisturising oil film to bath water, which is then deposited onto the skin during soaking. It does not treat the underlying cause of skin conditions but provides symptomatic relief and helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier with regular use. The NHS recommends emollients as a first-line treatment for eczema and dry skin conditions, and bath additives like Dermalo form an important part of that approach.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Dermalo Bath Emollient?

 

Before using Dermalo Bath Emollient, read the following contraindications and warnings carefully:

  • Do not use if you are allergic to liquid paraffin, acetylated wool alcohols (lanolin derivatives), or any other ingredient in the product.
  • Avoid contact with the eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
  • Emollients make bath and shower surfaces extremely slippery — always use a non-slip mat and take care when getting in and out of the bath.
  • Do not use near naked flames or while smoking. Emollient residue on clothing and bedding is flammable — wash fabrics regularly.
  • If your skin condition worsens or does not improve after regular use, consult your GP or pharmacist.
  • Consult a healthcare professional before use in premature infants or very young babies.

There are no known significant drug interactions with Dermalo Bath Emollient when used as directed. However:

  • Do not use simultaneously with other bath additives unless advised by a healthcare professional.
  • If you are using topical corticosteroids or other prescribed skin treatments, apply them separately after bathing and drying the skin — do not mix with the bath emollient.

 

How Should You Use Dermalo Bath Emollient?

 

Using Dermalo Bath Emollient correctly is straightforward. Follow these steps for best results:

  1. Fill the bath with comfortably warm (not hot) water. Hot water can strip the skin of natural oils and worsen dryness.
  2. Add 15–30ml (approximately 1–2 capfuls) of Dermalo Bath Emollient to the bath water.
  3. Stir the water to disperse the emollient evenly throughout the bath.
  4. Soak in the bath for 10–20 minutes, allowing the emollient to coat the skin.
  5. Carefully step out of the bath — surfaces will be slippery.
  6. Pat the skin gently dry with a soft towel. Do not rub, as this can irritate already sensitive skin.
  7. Apply any prescribed topical treatments (such as corticosteroid creams) to the skin while it is still slightly damp, if directed by your GP.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Dry skin / eczema Adults 15–30ml per bath Once or twice daily
Dry skin / eczema Children 5–15ml per bath Once or twice daily
Dry skin / eczema Babies (under medical guidance) 5ml per bath Once daily

For shower use, a small amount can be applied directly to wet skin and rinsed off, though the bath method is preferred for maximum benefit. If you're looking for complementary leave-on moisturisers, browse our creams and ointments for suitable options to use alongside your bath routine.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Dermalo Bath Emollient?

 

Dermalo Bath Emollient is generally well tolerated. Side effects are uncommon, but as with any topical product, reactions can occur. Stop use and seek advice from a pharmacist or GP if you experience any of the following.

Common side effects:

  • Mild skin irritation or stinging, particularly on broken or very sensitive skin
  • Temporary redness at the site of application

Less common side effects:

  • Allergic contact dermatitis — more likely in those sensitive to wool alcohols (lanolin)
  • Folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) with prolonged or excessive use
  • Rash or urticaria (hives) in rare cases of hypersensitivity

If you develop a severe allergic reaction — including swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency medical attention immediately.

 

How Should You Store Dermalo Bath Emollient?

 

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

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Do not store in the bathroom if it is frequently hot and steamy — a bedroom or airing cupboard shelf is preferable.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle.
  • Do not dispose of via wastewater or household waste — ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines you no longer need.

If you're managing a broader skin condition and want to explore additional support, our skin care collection includes a range of products recommended for dry and sensitive skin types.

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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 Dermalo Bath Emollient online in the UK?

You can buy Dermalo Bath Emollient 500ml online from Cured Pharmacy for just £4.79, with no prescription required. It is available as an over-the-counter product and can also be prescribed by your GP on an NHS prescription. Ordering online is a convenient option if you use it regularly as part of your skin care routine.

How does Dermalo Bath Emollient work in the body?

Dermalo Bath Emollient works by dispersing liquid paraffin and acetylated wool alcohols into bath water, which then coat the skin's surface during soaking. This creates an occlusive film that reduces transepidermal water loss — the process by which moisture escapes through the skin. Over time, regular use helps restore the skin's natural lipid barrier, reducing dryness, itching, and irritation.

How do I use Dermalo Bath Emollient step by step?

Add 15–30ml to a bath of warm (not hot) water and stir to disperse evenly. Soak for 10–20 minutes, then carefully step out — the bath will be slippery — and pat your skin dry gently with a soft towel. Apply any prescribed topical treatments to slightly damp skin afterwards if your GP has advised this.

What is the correct dose of Dermalo Bath Emollient for children?

For children, the recommended dose is 5–15ml per bath, depending on age and the severity of the skin condition. For babies, use approximately 5ml under medical guidance and always supervise bath time closely. If you're unsure about the right amount for your child, speak to your GP or pharmacist before use.

Is Dermalo Bath Emollient safe for babies?

Yes, Dermalo Bath Emollient can be used in babies, but it should be used under the guidance of a GP or health visitor, particularly for very young or premature infants. Use a small amount — around 5ml — and always ensure an adult is present during bath time. Our baby and toddler range includes other products suitable for sensitive infant skin.

Can I use Dermalo Bath Emollient every day?

Yes, Dermalo Bath Emollient is designed for daily use as part of an ongoing emollient therapy routine. The NHS recommends using emollients regularly — even when skin appears to be improving — to maintain the skin barrier and prevent flare-ups. Consistent daily use tends to produce better long-term results than using it only when symptoms are severe.

What are the side effects of Dermalo Bath Emollient?

Side effects are uncommon but can include mild skin irritation, temporary redness, or — in those sensitive to wool alcohols — allergic contact dermatitis. Folliculitis (hair follicle inflammation) has been reported with prolonged or excessive use. If you experience a rash, hives, or any signs of a severe allergic reaction, stop use immediately and seek medical advice.

What is the difference between Dermalo and Oilatum bath emollient?

Both are bath emollients used for dry skin conditions, but they differ in their active ingredients. Dermalo contains liquid paraffin (65%) and acetylated wool alcohols (5%), while Oilatum Bath Additive contains light liquid paraffin (63.4%) without wool alcohols. If you have a known lanolin or wool sensitivity, Oilatum may be a more suitable alternative — your pharmacist can advise.

Who is eligible to use Dermalo Bath Emollient?

Dermalo Bath Emollient is suitable for adults, children, and babies with dry, itchy, or inflamed skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and ichthyosis. It is not suitable for people with a known allergy to liquid paraffin or lanolin-derived ingredients. Those with very sensitive or allergy-prone skin should consult a pharmacist or GP before starting use.

Can Dermalo Bath Emollient be used in the shower?

While Dermalo is primarily designed as a bath additive, a small amount can be applied directly to wet skin in the shower and then rinsed off. The bath method is generally preferred as it allows longer skin contact and better emollient deposition. Whichever method you use, take care as surfaces will become slippery.

How long can you use Dermalo Bath Emollient for?

Dermalo Bath Emollient can be used long-term as part of an ongoing emollient therapy plan. There is no maximum duration of use, and the NHS recommends continuing emollient use even during periods of remission to help prevent skin from drying out again. If your skin condition changes significantly, review your treatment with your GP.

Is Dermalo Bath Emollient available on NHS prescription?

Yes, Dermalo Bath Emollient is available on NHS prescription for patients with conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis. Your GP can prescribe it if it is clinically appropriate for your condition. It is also available to buy over the counter without a prescription from pharmacies including Cured Pharmacy.

What should I do if Dermalo Bath Emollient irritates my skin?

If you experience irritation, redness, or a rash after using Dermalo Bath Emollient, stop use immediately and rinse the affected area with cool water. Consult your pharmacist or GP, who may recommend an alternative emollient without wool alcohols. Do not continue using the product if you suspect an allergic reaction.

What are the alternatives to Dermalo Bath Emollient?

Alternatives to Dermalo Bath Emollient include Oilatum Bath Additive, Balneum Bath Oil, and Aveeno Dermexa Bath & Shower Oil, all of which are used for similar dry skin conditions. The best choice depends on your skin type, any known allergies, and personal preference. Browse our creams and ointments collection for a range of emollient options.

What are the latest recommendations on using bath emollients for eczema?

The NHS and NICE continue to recommend emollients — including bath additives — as a core part of eczema management, used regularly to maintain the skin barrier. Some research has questioned whether bath additives add significant benefit over leave-on emollients alone, but clinical guidance still supports their use as part of a broader emollient regimen. Always follow your GP's or dermatologist's personalised advice for your skin condition.

How Should You Use Dermalo Bath Emollient?

Using Dermalo Bath Emollient correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Always use warm — not hot — water, as hot baths can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen dryness. Follow these steps each time you bathe:

What Is the Correct Dose of Dermalo Bath Emollient?

The dose varies depending on age and the severity of the skin condition. Always use the smallest effective amount, particularly for young children and babies. The table below provides a general guide — your GP or pharmacist may advise a different amount based on your individual needs.

When Is the Best Time to Use Dermalo Bath Emollient?

There is no single "best" time, but many people find that bathing in the evening works well — it soothes the skin before bed and can help reduce overnight itching, which is a common complaint in eczema sufferers. If you bathe in the morning, the emollient film can help protect the skin throughout the day. Consistency matters more than timing, so build it into whichever routine you're most likely to stick to.

How Long Can You Use Dermalo Bath Emollient For?

Dermalo Bath Emollient is suitable for long-term, ongoing use. The NHS recommends continuing emollient therapy even during periods when the skin appears to have improved, as stopping too soon can allow the skin barrier to break down again and trigger a flare-up. There is no defined maximum duration of use. If your skin condition changes, worsens, or fails to respond after several weeks of regular use, speak to your GP to review 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 Dermalo Bath Emollient?

Dermalo Bath Emollient is generally well tolerated by most people, including children and the elderly. However, as with any topical product, some individuals may experience mild reactions, particularly when first starting use. Common side effects tend to be localised and short-lived.

  • Mild skin irritation or stinging, especially on broken or very sensitive skin
  • Temporary redness or warmth at the site of skin contact
  • A feeling of greasiness on the skin immediately after bathing

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Dermalo Bath Emollient?

Less common reactions are more likely in people with a sensitivity to lanolin or wool-derived ingredients, as Dermalo contains acetylated wool alcohols. If you have previously reacted to lanolin-containing products, you should seek advice before using this emollient.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis — presenting as a red, itchy, or blistering rash
  • Folliculitis — inflammation of the hair follicles, particularly with prolonged or excessive use
  • Urticaria (hives) in rare cases of hypersensitivity to an ingredient

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Dermalo Bath Emollient?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is extremely uncommon with topical emollients but cannot be entirely excluded. Signs of a serious reaction include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, a rapid heartbeat, or a sudden widespread rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately. Do not use the product again until you have spoken to a doctor.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you notice any irritation, redness, or a new rash after using Dermalo Bath Emollient, stop use straight away and rinse the affected area with cool water. For mild reactions, the irritation usually settles within a few hours of stopping use. Contact your pharmacist or GP if symptoms persist, worsen, or if you are concerned. They can help identify whether the reaction is related to the emollient or to your underlying skin condition, and recommend a suitable alternative if needed.

Can Dermalo Bath Emollient Interact With Other Medicines?

There are no known significant drug interactions with Dermalo Bath Emollient when used as directed as a bath additive. However, you should not mix it with other bath additives in the same bath unless advised by a healthcare professional. If you are using prescribed topical treatments — such as corticosteroid creams, tacrolimus, or other medicated preparations — apply these separately after bathing and drying the skin. Do not apply them directly into the bath water alongside the emollient, as this may affect their efficacy. Always inform your GP or pharmacist of all products you are using on your skin.

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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