Epaderm Ointment - 125g

Epaderm Ointment is a rich 3-in-1 paraffin emollient that moisturises and helps restore the skin barrier in very dry skin, used directly on the skin, as a wash or in the bath, supplied in a 125g tub by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• People with very dry skin who need a rich, intensive emollient, including overnight use
• People who want a single product they can use on the skin, as a wash and in the bath
• Parents wanting a simple, three-ingredient emollient suitable from birth

Not suitable for: anyone sensitive to any of the three ingredients. Avoid broken, weeping or infected skin and keep away from the eyes. This is an emollient, not a treatment that cures eczema. Take care in the bath, as it makes surfaces slippery.

How to use

1. Direct on the skin: apply generously and frequently in the direction of hair growth, even when the skin has improved.
2. As a skin cleanser: scoop a small amount, lather under warm water and use in place of soap or body wash.
3. As a bath additive: melt about 4g (the size of a two-pound coin) in a tumbler of hot water, let it cool, then add to the bath. Do not apply hot water directly to the skin.
4. Take care, as Epaderm makes baths and surfaces slippery.
5. For external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes.

Frequently asked questions

Is Epaderm Ointment a steroid?

No. Epaderm Ointment is a steroid-free emollient made from just three ingredients. It moisturises and softens very dry skin and can be used as often and as generously as needed.

Can I use Epaderm Ointment on a baby?

Yes. Epaderm Ointment is suitable for all ages, including babies. Apply a thin layer to dry areas in the direction of hair growth and avoid the eyes. Take care if using it in the bath, as it makes surfaces slippery.

How do I use Epaderm in the bath?

Melt about 4g, the size of a two-pound coin, in a tumbler of hot water, let it cool, then add it to the bath. Never apply hot water directly to the skin, and use a bath mat, as the ointment makes the bath slippery.

Is Epaderm Ointment flammable?

Epaderm is paraffin-based. Clothing, bedding and dressings with the ointment dried onto them can catch fire more easily, so do not smoke or go near naked flames while using it. Wash fabrics regularly at a high temperature.

Does Epaderm cure eczema?

No. An emollient does not cure eczema; it moisturises the skin, helps relieve dryness and supports the skin barrier. If your eczema is flaring or not controlled, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Safety and storage

• For external use only. Do not use if you are sensitive to any of the ingredients; avoid contact with the eyes.
• Fire hazard: this is a paraffin-based emollient. Do not smoke or go near naked flames — clothing and bedding with the product dried on them can catch fire easily. Wash fabrics regularly at a high temperature.
• Take care in the bath and shower, as Epaderm makes surfaces slippery.
• If your condition worsens or you have any undesirable effects, stop and speak to your pharmacist or GP.
• Do not use if the seal is broken or after the expiry date. Keep out of the reach of children.

References

• NHS — Atopic eczema: treatment and emollients
• Epaderm Ointment product information (emc)

This product is a paraffin-based emollient for the management of very dry skin. It is not a steroid or a medicine and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Keep away from naked flames. If your skin condition does not improve, or worsens, consult your pharmacist or GP.