Aqueous cream (SLS-containing)

Aqueous cream (SLS-containing) is a topical emollient and moisturizer formulated as a light, paraffin-based oil-in-water emulsion. It contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) as part of its emulsifying wax component, which helps stabilize the mixture and provides cleansing properties. SLS acts as an anionic surfactant and stabilizer but is also a known skin irritant that can cause burning, stinging, itching, redness, and contact dermatitis—especially in individuals with eczema or sensitive skin. The mechanism of action for the product is to hydrate the stratum corneum by forming an occlusive barrier on the skin surface; however, SLS disrupts skin barrier integrity by thinning the stratum corneum and increasing transepidermal water loss. Aqueous cream has been widely used since 1958 for xerotic (dry) skin conditions but is now generally recommended only as a wash-off soap substitute rather than a leave-on moisturizer due to its irritancy potential[1][2][3][4][5][6][8].

Other names

aqueous cream BPsimple creamhydrous emulsifying ointment