Epaderm Ointment: Thick and Greasy

Why We Chose This Product

• Epaderm is an ointment, which means it's a thick and greasy moisturiser.
• It is heavier than creams or lotions, so theoretically it should trap more moisture in the skin. However a study looking at different type of moisturisers found that lighter emollients were as effective for eczema as thick ointments, so individual preference is the most important factor.  
• Some people find Epaderm can be a bit sticky, others like the thick texture. Some people like to use lighter creams during the day and heavier ointments such as Epaderm at night or in the winter months when eczema tends to flare. 
• This ointment contains no fragrances, colourings or preservatives, so it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction (contact allergy) to the skin. 
• The main ingredient is paraffin. Paraffin is useful in eczema, as it contains no allergic material. Epaderm ointment is therefore unlikely to cause an allergic reaction (contact allergy) to the skin. 
• There are lots of different ointments on the market try, we chose Epaderm ointment from our experience and patient feedback. 
• It can be used directly on the skin, as a soap substitute or as a bath additive. 
• Suitable for all ages, including babies

Cautions

• This product comes in a tub (as it is too thick to use a pump dispenser). It is therefore important to wash your hands before applying the ointment and to use a clean spoon to remove the ointment from the tub. There is a risk that microbes such as bacteria can deposit and grow in the tub if these instructions are not followed, which can lead to skin infections.  
• Use of moisturisers in the bath can or shower be a slip hazard
• Moisturisers are flammable. Over long periods moisturisers can build-up on fabric (clothing, bedding etc), making these materials flammable. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce this build-up but not totally remove it.  

Ingredients

• Cetomacrogol Emulsifying Wax BP. (contains Cetostearyl Alcohol and Macrogol Cetostearyl Ether 22)
• Yellow Soft Paraffin BP.
• Liquid Paraffin Ph. Eur

References

1. Ridd MJ, Wells S, MacNeill SJ, Sanderson E, Webb D, Banks J, Sutton E, Shaw AR, Wilkins Z, Clayton J, Roberts A, Garfield K, Liddiard L, Barrett TJ, Lane JA, Baxter H, Howells L, Taylor J, Hay AD, Williams HC, Thomas KS, Santer M. Comparison of lotions, creams, gels and ointments for the treatment of childhood eczema: the BEE RCT. Health Technol Assess. 2023 Oct;27(19):1-120. doi: 10.3310/GZQW6681. PMID: 37924282; PMCID: PMC10679965.