Indications
Light Liquid Paraffin is a refined mineral oil used on the skin as an emollient (moisturiser). It is an ingredient of creams, ointments, lotions and bath oils used for dry, rough, scaly or itchy skin, including eczema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and ichthyosis. It can also be used as a soap substitute for people with sensitive or dry skin.
How It Works
Light Liquid Paraffin forms a thin oily layer on the skin surface. This layer slows the loss of water from the skin, so the outer skin stays softer, more flexible and better hydrated. Keeping the skin barrier moist helps reduce itching, cracking and flare ups of dry skin conditions. It does not contain any active medicine.
Dosage and Administration
Apply to the affected skin as often as needed, usually 2 to 4 times a day or as directed on the label. Smooth it gently in the direction of hair growth rather than rubbing hard. It works best when applied soon after washing or bathing while the skin is still slightly damp. When used as a soap substitute, apply to wet skin and rinse off. For external use only.
Interactions
No important interactions are known. If you use other creams or ointments on the same area, leave a gap of about 15 to 30 minutes between products, or follow your doctor’s advice.
Contraindications
- Known allergy to any ingredient of the product.
- Do not apply to broken, infected or weeping skin unless advised by a doctor.
Side Effects
Side effects are uncommon. Some people may get mild stinging, redness or an allergic rash, often due to other ingredients such as perfumes or preservatives. Very greasy products may block hair follicles and cause small spots (folliculitis).
Get urgent medical help if you develop a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat or difficulty breathing, or a rapidly spreading, painful rash.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Light Liquid Paraffin applied to the skin is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as almost none is absorbed. If used on the breast, wipe it off before feeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Fire hazard: paraffin based products soak into clothing, bedding and dressings and make them burn easily. Keep away from open flames, cigarettes and heaters, and change clothes and bedding often.
- Products can make bath and floor surfaces slippery; take care to avoid falls.
- Avoid contact with the eyes.
- Not for swallowing.
Overdose
Using too much on the skin is not harmful. If swallowed in large amounts, it may cause diarrhoea. If oil is inhaled into the lungs (for example, by a child), it can cause pneumonia; seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Emollient; skin moisturiser and protective.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.