Unguentum M cream

Unguentum M cream contains a mixture of liquid and white soft paraffins - find out everything you need to know about using this moisturiser

What is Unguentum M cream used for?

  • Moisturising dry, itchy and scaly skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis.

  • Unguentum M cream can be used alternately with topical corticosteroids when these are being gradually withdrawn and your doctor may also ask you to dilute topical steroids with Unguentum M cream.
  • Unguentum M cream can also be applied to protect rubbed or raw areas of skin, such as nappy rash.

    How does Unguentum M cream work?



    Unguentum M cream contains white soft paraffin and liquid paraffin. When you apply the cream these oils stay on the surface of the skin to prevent water evaporating from the skin surface. They also provide a barrier to protect the skin.

    How do I use Unguentum M cream?

    • You can apply Unguentum M cream as often as needed to relieve dry skin. It should be applied frequently, particularly before or after washing, to stop the skin drying out.
    • Sometimes your doctor might ask you to use Unguentum M cream to dilute a steroid cream, or might ask you to use it alternately with a steroid cream. If this is the case, follow the instructions given by your doctor.
    • Unguentum M can be applied to any part of the body but avoid getting it in your eyes. Smooth the cream into the skin in the direction of the hair growth.

      What should you know about using Unguentum M cream?

      • Unguentum M cream contains paraffin oils which are flammable. If the cream comes into contact with dressings, bandages, clothing, bed linen, towels or other fabrics these can be easily ignited by a naked flame or cigarette, particularly if large amounts of the cream have been used, or the fabric or dressing have become soaked with the moisturiser. Keep away from fire, flames and lit cigarettes. If you're using a lot of Unguentum M cream as a moisturiser your clothing and bedding should be changed regularly, preferably daily, because the cream can soak into fabric and can become a fire hazard.

        Who shouldn't use Unguentum M cream?

        • People who are allergic to any ingredients of the cream. These will be listed on the packet. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using Unguentum M cream and inform your doctor or pharmacist .

          Can I use Unguentum M cream while pregnant or breastfeeding?

          • Yes - Unguentum M cream is not absorbed through the skin and is not known to be harmful if used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you're using the cream on your breasts just make sure you wash any residual cream off before giving a feed.

            What are the possible side effects of Unguentum M cream?

            • People hypersensitive to any of the ingredients could experience skin reactions, such as burning, itching, rash or redness of the skin. Stop using Unguentum M and see your doctor if your skin gets irritated after using it.

            Read the leaflet that comes with the cream or talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you want more information about the possible side effects of Unguentum M cream. If you think you have experienced a side effect, did you know you can report this using the yellow card website?

            Can I use Unguentum M cream with other medicines?

            By smoothing and softening the skin, moisturisers like Unguentum M can improve the absorption of other medicines that are applied to the skin. This is useful in conditions like eczema, because it improves the ability of other medicines, such as corticosteroid creams, to penetrate the skin and reduce inflammation.

            However, unless otherwise directed by your doctor, it's best to leave about 30 minutes between applying your moisturiser and applying creams, ointments or lotions that contain a medicine, for example steroid or antibiotic creams. If you apply the moisturiser immediately before or after applying a medicated skin product, the moisturiser could dilute the medicine and potentially make it less effective.

            Last updated 12.02.2018

            Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
            More From Skin and Hair