Safety

General information, not medical advice

Your prescriber and the leaflet in your pack know your situation. This page does not.

  • Follow your prescriber and the leaflet
  • Don't start, stop, or change a dose on your own
  • Doses and warnings differ by country and product
Facts checked by a personSourcesFull disclaimer

E45 Cream: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

· 3 min read

E45 Cream: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates
Drug classEmollient
FormsCream (tube, tub, and pump pack)
E45 Cream: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates product

Quick overview

E45 Cream is an emollient (moisturising) cream used to relieve dry, itchy, and flaky skin. It is fragrance-free, dermatologically tested, and suitable for the whole family, including babies over one month old. It can be used for conditions such as eczema-related dryness, dry dermatitis, chapped skin, and certain cases of dry psoriasis.

What is E45 Cream

E45 Cream is an emollient (moisturising) cream that helps relieve dry, itchy, and flaky skin. It is fragrance-free and has been dermatologically tested. It can be used by the whole family, including babies over one month old.

E45 Cream uses

  • Dry skin
  • Eczema-related dryness
  • Dry dermatitis
  • Chapped hands and skin
  • Certain cases of dry psoriasis
  • Minor sunburn-related dryness

Benefits of E45 Cream

  • Moisturises dry skin
  • Softens rough and flaky skin
  • Helps reduce itching caused by dryness
  • Supports the skin's moisture barrier
  • Helps soothe chapped skin

How E45 Cream works

E45 Cream is an emollient. It is absorbed quickly into the skin to add extra moisture, and it also forms a protective film on the skin's surface that helps trap moisture so the skin stays hydrated for longer.

E45 Cream dosage

Apply liberally to the affected area, or as required. For best results, apply directly after bathing to help lock in moisture. Wait at least 30 minutes before applying this cream if you are using another skin treatment such as a corticosteroid cream. Check that the seal is intact before first use. This cream is suitable for the whole family, including babies over the age of one month. Depending on severity, more frequent application may be needed to see the best effect.

Age groupDose
Under 18 yearsNot recommended
18–64 yearsThin layer, 2–3 times/day
65+ yearsThin layer, 2–3 times/day

Available forms and strengths

  • Cream (tube, tub, and pump pack)

Side effects of E45 Cream

Common

  • Skin irritation
  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Mild burning sensation
  • Skin rash

Serious

  • Skin irritation
  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Rash
  • Burning sensation

Warnings and precautions

  • Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you are pregnant. 
  • Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you are breastfeeding; one source states it is not recommended during breastfeeding. 
  • Stop use if irritation occurs. For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
  •  Avoid use if allergic to any ingredient. Keep away from children.
  • Speak to a doctor before using this product if you are currently taking, or have recently stopped taking, any other prescribed or non-prescribed medication.
  • Wait at least 30 minutes before applying this cream if you are using another skin treatment such as a corticosteroid cream.
  • This cream contains paraffin, which can be flammable. Avoid naked flames or smoking while using it, and change clothing, bedding or dressings regularly if using large amounts.
  • Do not use on a fresh burn.
  • Do not use if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, such as paraffin or cetyl alcohol, which can cause skin reactions.
  • If you are using minoxidil, speak to your doctor before using this product.
  • If you have sensitive skin or are worried about allergic reactions, do a patch test first by applying a small amount to the skin and watching for a reaction.

Storage

  • Store at room temperature.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat.
  • Keep the lid tightly closed.
  • Keep out of reach of children.

When to see a doctor

  • If your skin becomes more irritated, red or itchy, or you develop a rash while using this product, stop using it right away and speak to a doctor if symptoms do not improve.
  • If you do not notice an improvement in your skin, or it gets worse while using this product, speak to a doctor for further advice.

Alternatives

  • CeraVe Moisturising Cream
  • Aquaphor Healing Ointment
  • Vaseline Petroleum Jelly

Watch the video

Video: E45 Cream: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

FAQs

What is E45 Cream used for?

E45 Cream is used to relieve dry, itchy, and flaky skin, including eczema-related dryness, dry dermatitis, chapped hands and skin, certain cases of dry psoriasis, and minor sunburn-related dryness.

How do you use E45 Cream?

Apply liberally to the affected area as required, ideally directly after bathing to help lock in moisture. If using another skin treatment such as a corticosteroid cream, wait at least 30 minutes before applying E45 Cream.

Is E45 Cream safe for babies?

Yes, E45 Cream is suitable for the whole family, including babies over one month old.

What are the side effects of E45 Cream?

Common side effects include skin irritation, redness, itching, mild burning sensation, and skin rash.

Can I use E45 Cream if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using E45 Cream if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as one source states it is not recommended during breastfeeding.

General information, not medical advice

Your prescriber and the leaflet in your pack know your situation. This page does not.

  • Follow your prescriber and the leaflet
  • Don't start, stop, or change a dose on your own
  • Doses and warnings differ by country and product
Facts checked by a personSourcesFull disclaimer

Sources

  1. https://www.e45.com (E45 official product page)
  2. https://www.theindependentpharmacy.co.uk (E45 Cream product page)
  3. https://www.medino.com/product/e45-dermatitis-cream-50ml
  4. https://www.boots.com/e45-itch-relief-cream-treatment-500g-10262941
  5. healthwords.ai E45 Cream article
  6. https://www.chemist-4-u.com E45 Dermatological Cream product page