Dermol 500 Lotion

Do not use Dermol 500 Lotion if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, including benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, liquid paraffin, isopropyl myristate or cetostearyl alcohol.

Do not use Dermol 500 Lotion if you have previously had an allergic reaction to a chlorhexidine-containing product. Speak to your GP if you are unsure whether the product is suitable for you.

Apply Dermol 500 Lotion to the affected areas of skin and gently smooth it in. Allow any excess to soak in rather than rubbing the skin vigorously, as this can aggravate dry skin conditions. Dermol 500 Lotion can be reapplied as often as required.

If you are using another topical treatment on the same area, such as a steroid cream, apply the two products at separate times to prevent them from mixing. Always allow the first product to soak in before applying the second.

Use Dermol 500 Lotion in place of your usual soap or shower gel during washing, bathing or showering. Apply directly to wet or dry skin, gently work into the skin and rinse off with water. The lotion will not foam or lather like a conventional cosmetic product. After washing, pat the skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.

Take care when using Dermol 500 Lotion in the bath or shower, as it can make surfaces slippery. Use a non-slip mat where possible and rinse the bath or shower after use.

The active ingredients in Dermol 500 Lotion are:

• Benzalkonium chloride 0.1% w/w
• Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride 0.1% w/w
• Liquid paraffin 2.5% w/w
• Isopropyl myristate 2.5% w/w

The other ingredients in Dermol 500 Lotion are cetostearyl alcohol, macrogol cetostearyl ether (cetomacrogol 1000), phenoxyethanol and purified water. Dermol 500 Lotion does not contain added fragrances or colourings.

No. Dermol 500 Lotion does not contain any corticosteroids (topical steroids). It is an antimicrobial emollient that is not associated with the side effects linked to long-term steroid use, such as skin thinning. Dermol 500 Lotion can be used alongside steroid creams, although the two should not be applied at the same time. Always allow one product to soak in before applying the other.

Dermol 500 Lotion can be applied to any area of dry or itchy skin, including the face. Take care to avoid contact with the eyes, as the lotion may irritate them if it gets into them. If this happens, rinse the eye thoroughly with water. Speak to your GP if you are unsure whether the product is suitable for use on a particular area of skin.

Dermol 500 Lotion can be used regularly as part of an ongoing skincare routine for chronic dry skin conditions such as eczema. Consistent daily use of an emollient is recommended in NHS and NICE guidance for managing eczema, even when symptoms are settled, to help prevent future flare-ups.

If your skin condition is stable and there is no sign of infection, your GP may suggest switching to a non-antimicrobial emollient for routine maintenance.

The antimicrobial ingredients in Dermol 500 Lotion (benzalkonium chloride and chlorhexidine dihydrochloride) help reduce the bacteria on the skin surface, including Staphylococcus aureus, which is associated with eczema flare-ups. However, the lotion is not licensed as a treatment for bacterial or fungal infections, and is not a substitute for antibiotics or antifungal medication. If you suspect a skin infection, speak to your GP for appropriate treatment.

Most people tolerate Dermol 500 Lotion well, although a small number of users may experience skin irritation, redness, burning or itching at the site of application. This can be caused by sensitivity to one of the ingredients, particularly cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.

If your skin condition appears to worsen after starting Dermol 500 Lotion, stop using the product and speak to your GP. They may recommend an alternative emollient that better suits your skin.

Use of Dermol 500 Lotion during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not expected to be associated with harmful effects, as absorption of the active ingredients through the skin is minimal. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, speak to your GP before using Dermol 500 Lotion.

Dermol 500 Lotion contains paraffin, which is flammable. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings and similar) that has been in contact with the lotion burns more easily and presents a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up, but will not completely remove it.

Do not smoke or go near naked flames while using Dermol 500 Lotion. This warning applies even if the lotion has been applied for some time, as residue can remain on fabric.