Bell's Emollient 50 Liquid Paraffin 50% in White Soft Paraffin Ointment - 500g

The 50/50 ointment dermatology clinics have relied on for decades: equal parts liquid paraffin and white soft paraffin, nothing else. It's the heaviest-duty emollient there is — a greasy, occlusive layer that seals moisture into very dry, cracked or eczema-prone skin and stops it escaping. Bell's 500g tub is the size for whole-body, every-day use.

Creams and lotions are mostly water with preservatives; 50/50 is pure paraffin, so there's nothing in it to sting or sensitise and nothing to evaporate. That's why it's the go-to for severe dryness, for overnight treatment under cotton gloves or socks, and as a soap substitute for skin that can't tolerate anything foaming. Softer than plain white soft paraffin, so it spreads more easily.

Apply generously to the affected skin as often as needed, smoothing in the direction of hair growth to avoid blocking follicles — several times a day for very dry skin, and always after washing. As a soap substitute, rub a little onto wet skin and rinse. It's greasy by design; give it a few minutes before dressing.

Paraffin-based emollients soak into fabric and dressings, which then catch fire easily — keep away from flames and cigarettes, and wash bedding and clothing regularly. It makes baths and showers slippery. Skin that's weeping, infected or not improving deserves a pharmacist or GP look.