Aqueous cream is a non-greasy emollient or moisturiser, used to relieve dry skin conditions such as eczema.
- It is made from a mixture of emulsifying ointment and water (also called oil in water emulsion).
- When used as a soap substitute or wash product, aqueous cream works by providing a layer of oil on the surface of the skin, which traps water beneath it and prevents water evaporating from the skin surface. In this way, it helps to retain moisture on the skin and reduce dryness.
- Read more about emollients and moisturisers.
There are two main types of aqueous cream
Not all brands of aqueous cream have the same formulation. There are now 2 main types of aqueous cream – one that contains the ingredient called sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and the SLS-free formulation.
SLS irritates the skin when it is left on for a long time. This can cause skin reactions, such as burning, stinging, itching and redness. These reactions were noticed when aqueous cream was used as a leave-on emollient but not when used as a wash product or soap substitute, that is rinsed off.
Aqueous cream that contains SLS must be rinsed off after use. Do NOT use it as a leave-on emollient or moisturiser. SLS-free aqueous cream can be used both as a leave-on emollient and a soap substitute.
Always check with your doctor or pharmacist which type of aqueous cream you have and ask for advice on how to use it.
