23/10/2025
Skin cream alert:
Here is some advice on how to use emollients safely:
Emollients can soak into clothing, bedding, dressings, and other fabric. The build-up of dried emollient on to fabrics can increase the risk of fires as they can catch fire much more quickly and burn hotter than clean fabric and cause severe and fatal burns. This applies to all emollients, whether they contain paraffin or not.
1. Do not smoke, cook or go near to any naked flames or heat sources such as gas, halogen, electric bar or open fires whilst wearing clothing or dressings that have been in contact with emollient-treated skin.
2. Change and wash your clothes frequently (preferably daily).
3. Take care the cream doesn’t dry onto cushions, soft furnishings and bedding.
4. Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you normally smoke. They will be able to offer you help and advice to stop smoking.
5. Most emollients are oil based; if being used as a soap substitute there is a risk of slipping during in showers or baths. Ensure that the bath or shower is cleaned out properly after use to reduce the risk of slipping.