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Cetomacrogol cream is one of the best-known basic ointments in the Netherlands, often recommended by GPs and dermatologists for dry or irritated skin. However, it is not always clear what is in it and which variant you need. In this blog, we explain what cetomacrogol cream is, what the petrolatum content means, and which variant is right for your skin.
What is cetomacrogol cream?
Cetomacrogol cream is a neutral basic cream used to moisturize and protect the skin. The cream contains no active medicinal ingredient, but works by leaving a layer of oil on the skin that limits moisture loss. This makes it widely applicable, regardless of whether there is a specific skin condition.
Cetomacrogol cream is often recommended for:
- Dry to very dry skin
- Eczema, as part of daily skincare between treatments
- Psoriasis
- Ichthyosis
- Itching due to a damaged skin barrier
The cream is widely used as a hand, face, or body cream, precisely because the formula is simple and neutral.
What does the petrolatum content mean?
Cetomacrogol cream is available with different percentages of added petrolatum: standard, 10 percent, 20 percent, or 50 percent. The higher the petrolatum content, the greasier and richer the cream, and the more protection it offers against moisture loss.
- Standard cetomacrogol cream, without extra petrolatum: a light cream, suitable for normal to slightly dry skin and for daily use.
- 10 percent petrolatum: slightly richer, suitable for dry skin.
- 20 percent petrolatum: a greasy cream for dry and sensitive skin, also suitable for scaly skin or hangnails.
- 50 percent petrolatum: the most intensive variant, intended for very dry skin that needs extra protection.
A rule of thumb: the drier the skin, the higher the petrolatum content needed. If in doubt, it is wise to start with a lower percentage and build up if the skin appears to need it.
FNA variant and propylene glycol
In addition to regular cetomacrogol cream, there is also an FNA variant (Formularium der Nederlandse Apothekers), a standardized formulation that is prepared in pharmacies according to fixed guidelines.
One point to note: the petrolatum cetomacrogol cream FNA contains the preservative propylene glycol. This substance can cause a stinging sensation on damaged skin, especially in babies and young children. Those who are sensitive to this may be better off choosing a cetomacrogol cream with 20 percent petrolatum or a lanette cream with 20 percent petrolatum, both preserved with sorbic acid instead of propylene glycol.
Cream or ointment: what is the difference?
Cetomacrogol is available as both a cream and an ointment. A cream contains relatively more water and absorbs faster, while an ointment is greasier and stays on the skin longer. For normal to dry skin, a cream is usually sufficient. For very dry or intensely irritated skin, an ointment, or a cream with a high petrolatum content, may be more effective.
The full range
View all variants of cetomacrogol cream and ointment, including the different petrolatum contents and the FNA version, in the cetomacrogol cream and ointment collection on parfumvrij.nl.
Unsure which variant best suits your skin? Start with a lower petrolatum content and build up as your skin needs it, or ask your GP or pharmacist for advice if you are unsure about the right choice for a specific skin condition.