Cetraben Cream and Ointment: Real Experiences from UK Users
When it comes to eczema and chronic dry skin, most people in the UK will encounter an emollient at some point. These moisturising creams and ointments form the cornerstone of eczema care, providing hydration, reducing itch, and protecting the skin barrier. Among the long list of emollients prescribed on the NHS, one of the most common is Cetraben.
Available in cream, lotion, and ointment form, Cetraben is marketed as suitable for daily use, safe for babies and adults, and versatile enough to be used both as a leave-on moisturiser and as a soap substitute. Its large pump bottles are a familiar sight in many households dealing with eczema.
But does Cetraben live up to its reputation? For some, it’s a gentle and effective solution that calms sore, cracked skin. For others, it feels drying, greasy, or simply ineffective. This article explores real UK user experiences, highlighting both the positives and the frustrations, alongside practical tips and expert pharmacist advice.
Why People Use Cetraben
Cetraben is often the first emollient prescribed by GPs for eczema and dermatitis. Because it’s widely available and relatively inexpensive, it has become a default starting point for many patients, especially children.
"Doc has prescribed this for DS6 as his fingers are cracked and sore. She told me to wash with it and then reapply as a cream." -mooseloose "We’ve been given Cetraben loads over the years. It’s the standard thing the GP prescribes when you ask for an emollient." -M0nopoly "I was prescribed Cetraben as a soap substitute as well as for moisturising - it lathers surprisingly well." -u/emollientfan
Its dual use as both a cream and a wash makes it especially appealing to busy parents and those looking for simple, multipurpose skincare.
Positive Experiences – Relief and Versatility
For many people, Cetraben does exactly what it’s meant to: soften dry skin, soothe irritation, and provide an affordable daily option.
"Cetraben. You can get a massive 750ml bottle for about ten pounds in a pharmacy." -Cornetttttto "I’ve spent a fortune on things for my ultra sensitive skin… this stuff is very gentle!" -Yellowfish2020 "It’s the only thing that keeps my hands from splitting in winter. I use it several times a day and it really helps." -u/soothinghands
People praise its pump packaging, which keeps it hygienic and easy to dispense, especially compared to tubs where fingers can contaminate the product.
For some with mild to moderate eczema, regular use of Cetraben cream helps to reduce flare-ups and manage dryness. Parents also value the simplicity of having one cream that can be used across the whole family.
Concerns About Overuse and Quantity
One recurring theme in online discussions is how much Cetraben people use. For those with severe eczema, the amounts can seem extreme.
"I get through around 1000 grams of Cetraben cream per week… my pharmacist says that’s way above normal." -50pfuckyoubastard "I use about 500g every 10 days. Dermatologist told me that was fine - they expect heavy use with bad eczema." -u/emollientlife "More isn’t always better… maybe Cetraben isn’t rich enough if you need that much." -Pookya
Dermatologists often recommend 500g per week for severe eczema, so heavy use is not unusual. However, when people find themselves applying huge amounts without relief, it may suggest that Cetraben isn’t rich enough and that an ointment or alternative product might be better suited.
There’s also the practical issue of NHS prescription limits. Some users say they struggle to get enough supply, with GPs reluctant to prescribe the quantities dermatologists recommend.
Criticisms – Dryness, Irritation, and Paraffin Content
Despite being marketed as gentle, not everyone finds Cetraben suitable. Some complain that it feels drying rather than moisturising.
"I find Cetraben very drying and that’s why I don’t use it." -Flimsy_Gazelle3798 "I wouldn’t recommend Cetraben - it is paraffin-based and can actually make eczema worse." -MinnySkinge "My skin flared up badly with it. I think the paraffin clogs my pores." -u/redpatch
The cream and lotion contain paraffin, which can help trap moisture but can also irritate some users and raise fire-safety risks if it builds up on clothing and bedding.
Others feel that while Cetraben is fine for mild dryness, it simply doesn’t offer enough protection for more severe flare-ups, especially compared with richer ointments.
Cetraben for Children and Babies
Cetraben is frequently prescribed for infants and children with eczema. Parents’ experiences are mixed.
"We’ve been using Cetraben twice daily for my daughter’s eczema but it still comes and goes really frequently." -KMP23 "My GP gave us Cetraben for my baby but it stung his skin. We swapped to Aveeno and it’s been much better." -SunshineAndSocks "It works okay on my toddler, but I have to slather it on after every bath or her eczema flares." -u/mumwithcream
Some parents appreciate its affordability and large size, while others feel they need to experiment with alternatives before finding one their child tolerates.
Comparisons and Alternatives
Because emollients are so individual, comparisons are common. Many users swap between different products before settling on what works.
"Over the years various GPs have recommended Diprobase or Cetraben, and these make my skin roar. The only thing that soothes is Aveeno." -Droolylabradors "I didn’t find it very moisturising, maybe try O’Keeffe’s or another emollient." -tiny-brit "I prefer Epaderm ointment at night, but Cetraben is good for daytime when I don’t want to feel greasy." -u/balancedcare
Alternatives mentioned often include Aveeno (oat-based), Epaderm ointment, Doublebase, and Epimax. The choice often depends on whether someone needs a light cream for day use or a heavier ointment for night-time repair.
Practical Tips from Users
Users often share tips on how to get the most from Cetraben and other emollients.
"Have you tried using cotton gloves at night? It enables you to put quite a bit of cream on." -oldraver "I always put it on damp skin after a shower - works much better that way." -u/emollienttips "The cream is fine in the day but ointment is better overnight when skin’s really sore." -u/ointmentconvert
Applying immediately after bathing, layering thicker ointments at night, and using cotton gloves or pyjamas to lock in moisture are all strategies that crop up repeatedly.
Pharmacist’s Perspective
To balance these voices, Alessandro Grenci, Superintendent Pharmacist at Medino, shares his professional advice:
"Cetraben is a cost-effective, widely used emollient that can be very helpful for eczema and dry skin. It should be applied liberally and frequently, ideally straight after bathing to lock in moisture. If someone finds they need to use very large amounts without improvement, it may mean the product isn’t rich enough and an ointment could be better. Parents and patients should also be mindful of paraffin-based emollients - they’re safe, but clothing and bedding should be washed regularly to reduce fire risk. No single emollient works for everyone, so trial and error is often needed to find the right one."
Conclusion
Cetraben is one of the UK’s most widely prescribed emollients. For many, it’s a gentle, reliable, and affordable option that fits easily into daily routines. Parents value its accessibility, and adults with sensitive skin often find it soothing.
But it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. Some find it drying or irritating, others feel they need excessive amounts, and a few prefer richer or oat-based alternatives like Aveeno.
The mixed experiences reflect a fundamental truth about eczema care: it is highly individual. The best emollient is the one that works for your skin, whether that’s Cetraben, Epaderm, Aveeno, or something else entirely.
For many, Cetraben is a solid first step. For others, it’s simply one part of the trial-and-error journey toward healthier, calmer skin.
