All emollients (lotions, creams, ointments, gels, sprays, soap substitutes) carry this risk. Creams are important in managing different skin conditions. You should continue to use your skin products as directed by your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. However, it is also important that you are aware of the danger and know how to keep safe when using these products.
Emollients (skin moisturisers) can transfer from the skin onto clothing, bedding, dressings, and other fabric. In the presence of a naked flame, such item withs emollient dried on are easily ignited. Emollients are not flammable in themselves or when on the skin, but when dried on to fabric they act as an accelerant, increasing the speed of ignition and intensity of the fire. This accelerant effect significantly reduces the time available to act to put out a clothing or bedding fire before serious and fatal burns are sustained.
We are, therefore, keen to work with patients who need to use larger quantities of emollients to make sure risk of fire is minimised. Please follow links below for further information and to learn about useful resources
