Pharmacy Guide

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Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Benzalkonium chloride, Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, Isopropyl myristate, Liquid paraffin may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Benzalkonium chloride, Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, Isopropyl myristate, Liquid paraffin

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

FOR

  • Dermol Wash is a moisturising, protective and antiseptic soap substitute for you to use whenever you wash. It has been developed for use instead of soaps (bars and liquids) and cleansers, both of which may irritate dry skin.
  • Dermol Wash can also be used as a leave on treatment, re-applied after washing and drying.
  • It helps treat and prevent dry and itchy skin conditions. Common examples include; -o  ccupational hand dermatitis (due to frequent hand-washing, or repeated contact with water or chemicals such as cleaning or hair products)
  • eczema and other types of dermatitis
  • psoriasis (scaly, pink patches of skin)
  • elderly pruritus (itchy skin due to ageing)
  • ichthyosis (unusually scaly skin)
  • All age groups can use Dermol Wash, including babies.
  • The active ingredients in this product are isopropyl myristate and liquid paraffin (which are emollients), and benzalkonium chloride and chlorhexidine dihydrochloride (which are antimicrobials).
  • This soap substitute is specially designed to be non-foaming and is fragrance free. When used as part of your normal washing routine, it helps to:
  • cleanse, soften, moisturise and protect your skin by trapping in moisture and restoring the normal protective function of the skin
  • prevent the skin-drying and irritant effects that can be caused by washing and by the soaps, foaming additives and fragrances used in ordinary cleansing products
  • combat bacteria present on your skin that can make eczema worse
  • prevent infection caused by scratching itchy skin
  • prevent 'flare-ups' of your skin condition
  • This product can be used in addition to any other emollients or treatments your doctor, pharmacist or nurse may have given or prescribed for you to treat your dry skin condition.

2. BEFORE YOU USE DERMOL WASH

Do not use Dermol Wash if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to isopropyl myristate, liquid paraffin, benzalkonium chloride and chlorhexidine dihydrochloride or any of the other ingredients of Dermol Wash listed in Section 6. Warnings and precautions As with any product, severe generalised allergic reactions (see Section 4) are possible. Very rare reports of such reactions in susceptible individuals, leading to a drop in blood pressure and even to unconsciousness, have been associated with products containing chlorhexidine. You must not use Dermol Wash if you have had problems with chlorhexidine-containing products in the past. Do not smoke or go near naked flames – risk of severe burns. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings etc) that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but not totally remove it. Take care when using this product:

  • Avoid getting it in the eyes, especially when using it on the face.
  • If you decide to use this product to wash with in the bath or shower, it can make the surface slippery, so: -b  e careful to avoid slipping over when getting into and out of your shower or bath (eg by using a shower or bath mat); -a  fter use, clean out the bath/shower tray with a suitable detergent to remove any remaining greasiness (wearing protective gloves to avoid irritating your hands).
  • For patients with very sensitive skin, it is generally a good idea to start any new treatment on a small test area first, in case any side effect occurs (see Section 4 overleaf). This is especially important when treating the face or young children. Thereafter, treatments may be applied more generously, as required. Using other medicines This product is not known to affect, or to be affected by, other medicines. Pregnancy and breast-feeding This product can be used during pregnancy and whilst breast-feeding. However, when breast-feeding, if use on the nipples is necessary, apply sparingly and after feeds. Gently wipe away any remaining product before feeding your baby. The ingredients have been in widespread use in this and similar preparations for many years, without reports of problems. However, safety trials have not been conducted. Dermol Wash contains cetostearyl alcohol Cetostearyl alcohol may cause local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis). If you have previously experienced local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis) to any of the ingredients, please talk to your doctor before using this product. This product is only for application to the skin. Use this product as part of your normal washing routine, instead of your ordinary soap (bar or liquid) or cleanser. For maximum benefit you should use it whenever you wash (including routine hand washing). Before using this product, turn the top of the pump dispenser anti-clockwise to unlock it. After unlocking, you will need to press down the pump dispenser several times to prime the pump before any product is dispensed.
  • Wash with this product in the same way as you would with any liquid soap.
  • Use it with a gentle washing action. The product will not foam or lather as you wash.
  • Rinse off (you should still be able to feel the product coating the skin). continued…

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How to take it

DERMOL WASH

  • Pat the skin dry with a soft towel (avoid rubbing as this can make dry skin conditions worse). You can also use Dermol Wash as a leave-on treatment, by re-applying it after washing and drying.
  • Gently smooth the product into the dry skin areas. If necessary, allow time for any excess to soak in. Do not rub the skin vigorously.
  • If you are applying another product to the same areas of skin as Dermol Wash, try to avoid mixing the two products. You can do this by applying the treatments alternately, leaving enough time to allow the previous product to soak in. Dermol Wash can be used for intensive and frequent hand-washing (e.g. for healthcare professionals in a clinical setting).
  • Using Dermol Wash, follow the hand-washing technique normally recommended.
  • Rinse thoroughly and dry.
  • Apply Dermol Wash to hands as a leave-on skin conditioner. If you forget to use Dermol Wash Do not worry if you occasionally forget to use it, just carry on using the product as described the next time you wash. If the product gets into the eyes The product may cause irritation if it gets into the eyes. Rinse the eyes with plenty of water. If rinsing one eye, take care to avoid washing product into the other eye. If irritation persists, seek medical advice.

4. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS Like all medicines, Dermol Wash can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. If you experience any of the following reactions stop using Dermol Wash and get urgent medical help: swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat; a sudden uncharacteristic red itchy skin rash (hives) away from the site of application; wheezing or breathing difficulty; feeling faint or dizzy; a strange metallic taste in the mouth; or collapse. You may be having a serious allergic reaction. This product has been specially designed for use on dry or problem skin areas anywhere on the body. Rarely, Dermol Wash can cause skin reactions on treated areas (involving redness, irritation and/or itching). These very rare skin reactions may become more significant where associated with excessive use as a leave-on application in areas of folded skin such as the groin or in the nappy area. Stop using this product and tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist:

  • If your skin condition seems to look or feel worse.
  • If any of the side effects become unacceptable, or you notice any other side effects not mentioned in this leaflet. If you swallow Dermol Wash If you accidentally swallow the product and you then feel unwell, seek medical attention. Do not attempt to cause vomiting. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible

Possible side effects

not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store it

DERMOL WASH

  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.
  • Do not use Dermol Wash after the expiry date shown on the container and carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
  • Do not store above 25°C.
  • After using the product it is advisable to turn the top of the pump dispenser clockwise to lock it.

6. FURTHER INFORMATION

What Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion contains: The active ingredients in this product are isopropyl myristate (2.5% w/w), liquid paraffin (2.5% w/w), benzalkonium chloride (0.1% w/w) and chlorhexidine dihydrochloride (0.1% w/w). The other ingredients are cetostearyl alcohol, macrogol cetostearyl ether (cetomacrogol 1000), phenoxyethanol and purified water. What Dermol Wash looks like and contents of the pack

  • The product is a white, non-greasy emulsion (lotion) that contains no dye or fragrance.
  • The product is available in a plastic bottle with a pump dispenser containing 200 ml of lotion. (50 ml packs are also available to medical and allied professions.) The Marketing Authorisation holder is Dermal Laboratories, Hitchin, Herts, SG4 7QR, UK. The Manufacturer is Aeropak, Viking Road, Great Yarmouth, NR31 0NU, UK. This leaflet was last revised in July 2021.

7. GENERAL ADVICE ON LOOKING AFTER DRY SKIN CONDITIONS

  • Try to avoid using normal soaps or shower products (even those labelled "moisturising"). This is because they tend to dry and irritate the skin. Avoid using products containing fragrances, as these can also cause skin problems. You should try to use a fragrance-free emollient "soap substitute" instead. This type of product will not foam or lather but will be better for your dry skin condition.
  • When bathing, try to use warm, not hot, water and avoid staying in the bath for long periods. This could make dry skin conditions worse.
  • Emollients help soften, moisturise and protect the skin. They play a central role in the treatment and management of dry skin conditions. For maximum effect, they should be applied regularly and as often as needed.
  •  Breaking the itch-scratch cycle. Some dry skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis are itchy, and can be quite sore. Although scratching relieves the itching for a short while, it further damages the skin. Badly scratched skin easily gets infected. This makes it itchier and the urge to scratch becomes even greater. It is better if scratching can be avoided by reducing the itching. The regular use of emollients or moisturisers can help with this.

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To listen to or request a copy of this leaflet in Braille, large print or audio, please call free of charge: 0800 198 5000 (UK only). Please be ready to give the following information: Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion, 00173/0407. This is a service provided by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

Frequently asked questions about Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion

What is the active substance in Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion?

The active substance in Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion is benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, isopropyl myristate, liquid paraffin.

Are there equivalent medicines to Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Dermol 200 Shower Emollient, Dermol 500 Lotion. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

  • Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc), Datapharm
  • Active substance: benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, isopropyl myristate, liquid paraffin
  • Official document: view the original leaflet on emc →
Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Benzalkonium chloride (10 medicines), Benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, isopropyl myristate, liquid paraffin (4 medicines), Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride (8 medicines), Liquid paraffin (14 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

An antimicrobial emollient for the management of dry and pruritic skin conditions, especially eczema and dermatitis. Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion is suitable for direct application and for use as a soap substitute.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

For adults, children and the elderly. For cutaneous use only.

For use as a soap substitute

Use as a cleanser at the sink or to wash with in the bath or shower, instead of ordinary soap or shower gel. Pat the skin dry using a soft towel (avoid rubbing as this can irritate the skin). The product may also be used in a similar way for frequent hand washing.

For application to the skin (e.g. after washing)

Apply to the affected areas as required.

4.3. Contraindications

Do not use in cases of known sensitivity (especially generalised allergic reaction) to any of the ingredients (see sections 4.4 and 4.8).

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Avoid contact with the eyes.

Take care to avoid slipping in the shower or bath, when using as a soap substitute.

Local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis) to any of the ingredients are rare but possible in sensitive people.

There are literature reports of chlorhexidine compounds inducing hypersensitivity, including anaphylactic shock. The prevalence of this is not known, but is likely to be very rare. Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion should not be administered to anyone with a possible history of allergic reaction to a chlorhexidine compound (see sections 4.3 and 4.8).

Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion contains cetostearyl alcohol which may cause local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis).

Instruct patients not to smoke or go near naked flames - risk of severe burns. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings etc) that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but not totally remove it.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

None known.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Use during pregnancy and lactation is not expected to be associated with harmful effects to the mother as cutaneous absorption of benzalkonium chloride is minimal. When breast-feeding, if use on the nipples is necessary, apply sparingly and after feeds. Gently wipe away any remaining product before feeding your baby.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

None known.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Although the product has been specially formulated for use on dry or problem skin, in the unlikely event of a reaction discontinue treatment.

Local skin reactions

These reactions are very rare (<1/10,000, based on spontaneous reporting) and may be irritant or allergic in nature. Reactions have been observed occasionally when used excessively as a leave-on application in areas of folded skin such as the anogenital area.

Serious generalised allergic reactions

Very rarely, hypersensitivity including anaphylactic reaction (see sections 4.3 and 4.4) is possible (based on literature for chlorhexidine-containing products).

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

Not applicable.

💬 Ask about this leaflet

Ask anything about Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.

Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.

Medicines containing Benzalkonium chloride, Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, Isopropyl myristate, Liquid paraffin

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