QV Moisturising Cream

What Is QV Moisturising Cream for Dry Skin?

If you live with dry, itchy, or sensitive skin, finding a reliable emollient can feel like a never-ending search. QV moisturising cream is a fragrance-free, lanolin-free emollient formulated to soothe and hydrate skin affected by conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, and general dryness. It is suitable for everyday use across all age groups and is available without a prescription. You can browse a wide range of similar products in our creams and ointments collection at Cured Pharmacy.

Dry skin — clinically known as xerosis — occurs when the skin's outer barrier loses moisture faster than it can be replaced. The NHS recognises emollients as a first-line treatment for conditions like eczema, and regular use can significantly reduce flare-ups and the need for other treatments. QV Moisturising Cream is manufactured by Ego Pharmaceuticals and has been widely used in clinical and home settings for decades.

How Does QV Moisturising Cream Work on Dry Skin?

Emollients work by targeting the skin barrier directly. QV Moisturising Cream contains a combination of ingredients that work together to lock in moisture and soften the skin's surface. Here's how it works:

• Glycerol (humectant): Draws water from deeper skin layers and the environment into the outer skin layer (stratum corneum), increasing hydration.
• Light liquid paraffin (emollient): Fills the gaps between skin cells, smoothing the surface and reducing the rough, flaky texture associated with dry skin.
• White soft paraffin (occlusive): Forms a protective film on the skin surface that slows transepidermal water loss (TEWL), keeping moisture locked in for longer.
• Fragrance-free and lanolin-free formulation: Reduces the risk of allergic contact dermatitis, making it appropriate for even the most reactive skin types.

Together, these ingredients address both the immediate discomfort of dry skin and the underlying barrier dysfunction that causes it. Regular application helps restore the skin's natural protective function over time.

Who Should Use QV Moisturising Cream?

QV Moisturising Cream is designed for anyone who experiences persistent or recurrent dry skin. It is particularly well-suited to people whose skin is sensitive or prone to reactions from fragranced products. The NHS recommends emollients for a broad range of patients, from infants to older adults.

This cream may be appropriate for you if you have:

• Eczema (atopic dermatitis) — to reduce dryness and itching between flare-ups
• Psoriasis — to soften plaques and relieve tightness
• Ichthyosis or other inherited dry skin conditions
• General xerosis (dry skin) caused by ageing, cold weather, or frequent handwashing
• Sensitive skin that reacts to fragranced or lanolin-containing products

How Does QV Moisturising Cream Compare to Other Emollients?

Is QV Moisturising Cream Safe for Long-Term Use?

Yes. QV moisturising cream is considered safe for long-term, daily use. Because it contains no steroids, antibiotics, or other active pharmaceutical agents, there is no risk of the skin-thinning effects associated with prolonged topical corticosteroid use. It can be applied as often as needed — many people with chronic dry skin conditions use it two to four times daily as part of their routine. If you are managing a skin condition alongside other treatments, our skin care collection includes a range of complementary products.

Store the cream below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use it past the expiry date printed on the packaging.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is QV Moisturising Cream and What Is It Used For?

QV Moisturising Cream is an over-the-counter emollient used to manage dry, flaky, and itchy skin. It is suitable for a wide range of skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis, as well as everyday dryness caused by environmental factors such as cold weather, central heating, or frequent handwashing. The NHS recommends regular emollient use as a cornerstone of eczema management, noting that emollients should be applied even when the skin appears clear to maintain the skin barrier and prevent flare-ups.

QV Moisturising Cream is free from fragrance and lanolin, making it one of the more tolerable options for people with reactive or allergy-prone skin. It is not a steroid cream and contains no prescription-only ingredients, so it can be used freely as part of a daily skincare routine.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using QV Moisturising Cream?

Before using any emollient, it is worth checking whether it is appropriate for your specific situation. QV Moisturising Cream is generally very well tolerated, but there are some important points to be aware of.

Do not use this cream if you:

• Are allergic to any of the listed ingredients, including glycerol, light liquid paraffin, or white soft paraffin
• Have an active skin infection — emollients should not be applied to infected skin without medical advice
• Have been advised by your GP to avoid paraffin-based products

Warnings and precautions:

• Paraffin-based emollients can be a fire hazard — dressings, clothing, and bedding that have come into contact with the cream can ignite more easily. Keep away from naked flames and do not smoke while using the product.
• Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes.
• If your skin condition worsens or does not improve after two to four weeks of regular use, consult your GP or pharmacist.
• Consult a healthcare professional before use in infants under 12 months.

Known drug interactions:

• No clinically significant drug interactions are known for topical emollients of this type.
• If you are using topical corticosteroids or other medicated creams, apply QV Moisturising Cream at a different time to avoid diluting the active treatment — your pharmacist can advise on timing.

How Should You Use QV Moisturising Cream Correctly?

Using an emollient correctly makes a real difference to how effective it is. The NHS advises applying emollients generously and frequently — not just when the skin feels uncomfortable. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Wash and gently pat your skin dry before applying the cream.
2. Scoop out the cream using a clean spatula or spoon — avoid dipping fingers directly into the tub to prevent contamination.
3. Apply the cream in smooth, downward strokes in the direction of hair growth to reduce the risk of folliculitis (blocked hair follicles).
4. Allow the cream to absorb for a few minutes before dressing.
5. Reapply as often as needed — typically two to four times daily, or more frequently during flare-ups.

If you are managing eczema or psoriasis alongside other skin treatments, you may find it helpful to explore our skin care collection for complementary products.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of QV Moisturising Cream?

Side effects from QV Moisturising Cream are uncommon, but as with any topical product, some people may experience a reaction. Knowing what to look out for helps you use the product safely.

Common side effects:

• Mild stinging or tingling sensation immediately after application, particularly on broken or inflamed skin
• Temporary greasiness or heaviness on the skin surface
• Blocked hair follicles (folliculitis) if the cream is applied against the direction of hair growth

Less common side effects:

• Contact dermatitis — redness, itching, or a rash at the application site
• Allergic reaction to one of the excipient ingredients (rare)
• Skin maceration if the cream is applied too thickly under occlusive dressings

If you notice any signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as widespread rash, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing — stop using the cream immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

How Should You Store QV Moisturising Cream?

Correct storage keeps the cream effective and safe to use throughout its shelf life. For families managing eczema in children, you may also find useful products in our baby and toddler collection.

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place — avoid storing in the bathroom where heat and humidity can affect the formulation.
• Keep the lid tightly closed when not in use.
• Keep out of reach and sight of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep away from naked flames — paraffin-based products are flammable when absorbed into fabric.