Ultrabase Cream 100ml

What Is Ultrabase Cream and How Does It Help Dry Skin?

Ultrabase cream is a water-miscible emollient moisturiser used to relieve and manage dry, rough, and scaly skin. It contains liquid paraffin and white soft paraffin as its key ingredients — both well-established emollients that help lock moisture into the skin and restore the skin's natural protective barrier. Whether you're dealing with eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, or simply very dry skin, this cream offers a straightforward, no-fuss solution. You can browse a wide range of similar products in our creams and ointments collection.

Dry skin is incredibly common in the UK, particularly during colder months when central heating strips moisture from the air. The NHS recommends emollients as a first-line treatment for conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and Ultrabase Cream fits neatly into that approach. At just £4.59 for a 100ml tube, it's an accessible option for everyday skin care.

How Does Ultrabase Cream Work to Moisturise Skin?

Emollients like Ultrabase Cream work through a combination of occlusion and humectancy. In plain terms, they sit on the skin's surface and slow down the rate at which water evaporates — a process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This is particularly important in conditions like eczema, where the skin barrier is compromised and moisture escapes more easily than it should.

• Liquid paraffin softens and lubricates the outer layer of skin (the stratum corneum)
• White soft paraffin forms a semi-occlusive film that reduces water loss
• The water-miscible base allows the cream to spread easily and absorb without leaving a heavy, greasy residue
• Regular use helps rebuild the skin's lipid barrier over time, reducing flare-ups

Who Should Use Ultrabase Cream?

This cream is suitable for a broad range of people. It's particularly useful for those with chronic dry skin conditions, but it can also be used as a general daily moisturiser for anyone with sensitive or easily irritated skin. It's available over the counter, so no prescription is needed.

• Adults and children with eczema or atopic dermatitis
• People with psoriasis or ichthyosis
• Anyone experiencing dry, flaky, or itchy skin
• Those looking for a simple, fragrance-free emollient base

How Does Ultrabase Cream Compare to Similar Emollients?

Is Ultrabase Cream Safe to Store and Use Long-Term?

Ultrabase cream should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the packaging. The 100ml tube format makes it easy to keep at home or carry in a bag for on-the-go use. If you're managing a long-term skin condition, it's worth exploring our full skin care collection for complementary products.

Long-term use of emollients is generally considered safe and is actively encouraged by the NHS for conditions like eczema. However, if your skin condition worsens or does not improve after regular use, speak to your GP or pharmacist for further advice.

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 Ultrabase Cream and What Is It Used For?

Ultrabase Cream is a topical emollient containing liquid paraffin and white soft paraffin. It is used to moisturise and soothe dry, rough, scaly, or itchy skin associated with conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis. It can also be used as a general moisturiser for anyone with persistently dry or sensitive skin. The NHS recommends emollients as a cornerstone of dry skin management, particularly for eczema, and advises using them regularly — even when the skin appears to be improving.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Ultrabase Cream?

Before using this cream, read the following carefully. Most people tolerate emollients well, but there are some important points to be aware of.

Do not use Ultrabase Cream if you:

• Are allergic to liquid paraffin, white soft paraffin, or any other ingredient in the formulation
• Have a known sensitivity to any component of the cream

Warnings and precautions:

• Paraffin-based emollients are a fire hazard — keep away from naked flames, cigarettes, and other ignition sources
• Emollient residue on clothing, bedding, and dressings can ignite easily; wash fabrics regularly
• Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes
• If your skin condition worsens or you develop a new rash, stop use and consult your GP
• Do not apply to broken, infected, or inflamed skin without medical advice

Drug interactions:

• No significant drug interactions are known for topical emollients
• If you are using other topical medicines (e.g. corticosteroid creams), apply Ultrabase Cream at a different time to avoid diluting the active treatment

How Should You Use Ultrabase Cream?

Using an emollient correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Apply the cream in smooth, downward strokes following the direction of hair growth — this reduces the risk of folliculitis (blocked hair follicles). Don't rub it in vigorously.

1. Wash and gently pat your skin dry before applying
2. Take a small amount of cream from the tube
3. Apply in smooth, downward strokes in the direction of hair growth
4. Allow the cream to absorb for a few minutes before dressing
5. Reapply as often as needed — typically two to four times daily
6. Apply more frequently during cold weather or after bathing

If you're also managing a condition like sensitive or reactive skin, speak to your pharmacist about building a complete skincare routine alongside your emollient.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Ultrabase Cream?

Side effects from emollients are uncommon, but they can occur. Most people use Ultrabase Cream without any problems at all. If you do notice any of the following, stop using the cream and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Common side effects:

• Mild skin irritation or stinging on first application
• Temporary redness at the application site

Less common side effects:

• Folliculitis (inflammation or infection of hair follicles, often caused by rubbing the cream in the wrong direction)
• Allergic contact dermatitis (rare — presents as a worsening rash or increased itching)
• Acne-like spots in areas of heavy application

If you experience any signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency medical attention immediately.

How Should You Store Ultrabase Cream?

Correct storage keeps the cream effective and safe to use throughout its shelf life. Follow these simple guidelines:

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
• Keep out of the reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
• Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused product to your pharmacy

If you're looking for other products to support your skin health routine, our baby and toddler collection includes emollients and skin care products suitable for younger skin too.