Fatty cream is used to treat dry skin conditions such as eczema. Find out how to apply it safely and the possible side effects.
| Type of medicine | Also called |
|---|---|
|
|
What is fatty cream?
- Fatty cream is a non-greasy emollient or moisturiser, used to treat dry skin conditions such as eczema.
- When applied to the skin, it 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.
- Fatty cream does not contain any perfumes or sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). These can irritate the skin especially in eczema.
How to use fatty cream
- Wash your hands before applying your fatty cream.
- Apply generous amounts of fatty cream to the affected area of skin several (at least 3–4) times a day or as required.
- It is best to apply fatty cream immediately after washing, bathing or showering, while the skin is still damp.
- Apply fatty cream in a downward motion, in the direction of hair growth and gently massage into your skin. Avoid rubbing.
- Do not put your hands into the pot, tub or jar of cream when removing for use. This will contaminate the cream. You could put the cream in a pump bottle to reduce contamination.
What are the side effects of fatty cream?
Like all medicines, fatty cream can cause unwanted side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often unwanted side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.
| Side effects | What should I do? |
|---|---|
|
|
| Did you know that you can report a side effect to a medicine to CARM (Centre for Adverse Reactions Monitoring)? Report a side effect to a product | |
Learn more
Emollients and moisturisers Dermnet NZ
Emollients for eczema Dermnet NZ
Emollients for eczema Patient Info, UK
References
Emollient and barrier preparations NZ Formulary