Changes to prescribing of bath and shower preparations

Moisturising bath and shower preparations are bath oils that are poured into the bath water, and bath and shower emollients which can be used to wash the body. These products are used for dry and itchy skin conditions such as eczema.

A study showed that using pour in the bath emollients did not make any difference to eczema symptoms and therefore using these products is not a good use of NHS resources. There is no good quality evidence to show that bath and shower emollients are more effective than leave on emollients used as a soap substitute. There are also risks with using bath emollients such as skin irritation if large amounts are used, particularly if antiseptic bath oils are used.

It is still really important to use leave-on emollient moisturisers and avoid soap. Emollients can be used as a soap substitute. Mix a small amount (around teaspoonful) of emollient in the palm of your hand with a little warm water and spread it over damp or dry skin. Rinse and pat the skin dry, being careful not to rub it. You can use soap substitutes for handwashing, showering or in the bath. Emollients do not foam like normal soap but are just as effective at cleaning the skin. Approved by:IMOC Approval Date: October 2023 Review Date: October 2025 2 Items which should not routinely be prescribed in primary care – bath and shower preparations for dry and itchy skin conditions.

• You can speak to your local pharmacist, GP or the person who prescribed the medication to you.
• Your local patient group.
• NHS website
• The Patients Association can also offer support and advice online or call 020 8423 8999
• British Medical Journal. Results of the BATHE study including patient video. 
• PrescQIPP - Changes to prescribing of bath and shower preparations

Find out more about the medicines that are being stopped or reduced.