How to make the most of this cheap staple

For years, Sudocrem has been a bathroom staple for parents with young children who have nappy rash. Available from as little as £2.15 for 60g, it’s a good remedy for many other skin problems, too. Here, we look at the surprising ways this ‘wonder’ cream — a licensed medicine approved by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products regulatory Agency — can be used . . .

ACNE

SUDOCREM is licensed for use on acne — it contains benzyl alcohol, a local anaesthetic that also acts as a disinfectant, which may help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with irritated and inflamed skin, and acts as a barrier, protecting the affected area from further infection. A survey found that 93 per cent of people who used the cream for acne said it was effective.

CUTS AND GRAZES

IT CAN help skin heal faster, according to the SURE (Sudocrem Real World Evidence) Study in February 2015, conducted by Allergan, a company affiliated with the maker.

The product contains ingredients known for their wound-healing properties, such as zinc oxide, and benzyl cinnamate, which has antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic action.

Along with its antiseptic properties, the cream can form a protective layer, to help reduce the risk of infection.

ECZEMA AND DERMATITIS

LICENSED for use on eczema, Sudocrem may also help calm and heal dermatitis (inflammation of the skin). Three studies in the Eighties found it clinically effective at improving and healing the condition.

A key ingredient is lanolin, which resembles the natural lubricating secretions of human skin (though it may not be suitable for use on broken skin if you are sensitive to lanolin).

ANTI-WRINKLE CREAM

ZINC oxide is an astringent, meaning it helps tighten skin. A review published in Dermatology Research and Practice in 2014 found topical zinc oxide could help to regenerate the fibres that keep skin elastic — which may lead to a reduction in wrinkles’ appearance.

SUNBURN AND MINOR BURNS

THE manufacturer says that the zinc oxide in Sudocrem ‘reduces the loss of tissue fluid’ following excessive heat exposure. So it can be used for minor burns to help moisturise the skin — in turn, promoting healing — and reduce the risk of infection. Do not use for severe burns, however.

ITCHY SKIN

THIS is often caused by dryness — the lanolin in the cream is an emollient that soothes and softens skin, while the zinc oxide has soothing properties and helps to create a protective ‘seal’. Research also suggests zinc oxide might reduce the secretion of histamine, which induces that itchy sensation.

INSECT BITES AND STINGS

SUDOCREM can be used to stop bites and stings itching. The anaesthetic properties of the benzyl alcohol can soothe discomfort of localised irritation (and the protective layer helps prevent infection).