At a glance

QUICK SUMMARY

01 Type of medicine

Antiseptic healing cream

02 Generic
03 Active ingredient

Zinc Oxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Cinnamate, Lanolin (Hypo-Allergenic)

04 Effective within
05 Works by

Creates a protective barrier on the skin, promoting healing while preventing infection.

06 Side effects

Medication details

Description

Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream

Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream is a multipurpose cream used for nappy rash, eczema, surface wounds, sunburn, minor burns, acne, bed sores and chilblains. It is suitable for adults, children and babies, which is why most households keep a pot of it somewhere.

How it works

The cream does several things at once, which is what makes it so widely used. Zinc oxide forms a water repellent barrier over the skin, protecting it from moisture and irritants, which is the key action in nappy rash. A mild antiseptic reduces bacteria on the surface, a local anaesthetic component eases discomfort, and the emollient base soothes and softens. The barrier action matters most of all: it buys irritated skin the time it needs to recover.

How to use it

Clean and dry the area first, then apply a thin layer with a circular motion until it forms a translucent film. More is not better here; a thick white layer does not improve the barrier and makes it hard to see how the skin underneath is doing. For nappy rash apply at each change, and allow some nappy free time where practical, since air on the skin helps more than any product.

Who it is for

It is for adults, children and babies. It is not suitable for anyone sensitive to the ingredients, and it is not intended for deep wounds, large or blistered burns, or skin that is already badly infected.

Safety and when to get advice

See a pharmacist or GP if a nappy rash is bright red with small spots spreading beyond the main area, which suggests a fungal infection needing a different treatment, or if skin is weeping, crusted, hot or spreading. Seek medical help for burns larger than the palm of the hand, burns to the face, hands or feet, or any burn on a baby or young child. Our UK pharmacy team can answer questions about this product before you buy.

Common questions

How much should I apply?
A thin layer until it forms a translucent film. A thick white coating is not more effective.

Can I use it on my face for spots?
Many people do, but it is heavy and can block pores on some skin. A pharmacist can suggest an acne specific option.

Is it safe on a newborn?
It is suitable for babies. Ask a pharmacist if you have any concerns.

Always read the information supplied with the pack before use.

Directions

Apply a thin layer to the affected area as needed. Refer to the enclosed leaflet for detailed instructions.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Cinnamate, Lanolin (Hypo-Allergenic)
Other Ingredients: Purified Water, Liquid Paraffin, Paraffin Wax, Beeswax, Microcrystalline Wax, Sodium Benzoate, Linalyl Acetate, Propylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Butylated Hydroxyanisole, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Lavender Fragrance

Side Effects

Occasional local irritation may occur. If symptoms persist, seek medical assistance.

Warnings

Do not use if allergic to any ingredients. Keep out of eyes, nose, and mouth. In case of accidental ingestion or persistent symptoms, seek medical help. Avoid contact with flames, as fabric in contact with the cream can catch fire easily. Use caution with newborns, as sodium benzoate may increase jaundice. Keep out of reach of children.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

Can I use Sudocrem on a newborn baby?

Sudocrem is widely used for nappy rash in babies, but it contains sodium benzoate, which in newborns can very rarely increase jaundice. If your baby is newborn or premature, check with a midwife or clinician before applying it. For older babies it is generally suitable.

Is it safe to use near a heat source or open flame?

Be cautious. Fabric such as clothing, bedding or bandages that has been in contact with Sudocrem can catch fire more easily. Keep away from open flames and ensure any fabric that has touched the cream is changed or washed regularly.

Can I use it on my face for spots?

It is listed for use on acne spots, but apply a thin layer to the spot only, not as a thick face mask, to avoid clogging surrounding pores. Keep it away from the eyes, nose and mouth.

Does Sudocrem contain lanolin?

Yes, it contains a hypo-allergenic form of lanolin. If you have a known lanolin sensitivity or wool allergy, check with our pharmacy team at info@rightangled.com before using it.

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