A plain emollient gel containing isopropyl myristate and liquid paraffin, used for dry skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis. Doublebase gel is supplied at Courier Pharmacy after a brief online consultation reviewed by a UK pharmacist, then dispensed and delivered to your door.
The 500g pump dispenser is the most useful pack size for regular daily use. A 100g tube runs out fast if you’re applying generously, and the 1kg pump is overkill for most households. With 500g, a typical adult using Doublebase liberally on body skin will get several weeks of regular use per bottle.
Where Doublebase Gel fits in UK skin care
Emollients are the foundation of dry skin management. NICE guidance (NG189 for atopic eczema in under 12s) and the British Association of Dermatologists both put leave-on emollients at the centre of every dry skin care plan. They aren’t an add-on — they’re the base layer that everything else works on top of.
The UK approach to dry skin conditions has a stepped structure:
Step 1: Daily emollient use (Doublebase Gel, Cetraben, Hydromol, Diprobase, Epaderm) as the foundation
Step 2: Emollient soap substitutes (Doublebase Emollient Wash Gel, Hydromol Wash, Epaderm Ointment used as soap)
Step 4: Mild topical steroids (hydrocortisone 1%) for mild flares
Step 5: Moderate to potent topical steroids (Eumovate, Betnovate, Elocon) for stronger flares
Step 6: Calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for face and sensitive areas
Step 7: Specialist dermatology input for refractory cases
Step 8: Phototherapy, systemic immunosuppressants, or biologics for severe disease
Doublebase Gel sits at Step 1 — the foundation. Even when someone is using stronger treatments higher up the ladder, the emollient stays. Stopping the emollient when symptoms ease is one of the most common reasons skin conditions come back.
Doublebase Gel vs other Doublebase products
Dermal Laboratories makes several Doublebase products, and choosing between them depends on how you’ll use them:
Doublebase Gel (this product): standard emollient gel for regular daily application; pumped and smoothed in
Doublebase Dayleve Gel: longer-lasting formulation for twice-daily use, suits people who can’t reapply through the day
Doublebase Emollient Wash Gel: soap substitute for washing
Doublebase Emollient Shower Gel: alternative wash format for shower use
Doublebase Diabetic Cream: lighter cream formulation designed with diabetes-related dry skin in mind
Many people use the leave-on gel and the wash gel together — one for daily moisturising, the other replacing soap in the shower or bath.
Doublebase Gel vs other emollients
The UK emollient market is crowded. Choosing between them depends on texture preference, severity of dryness, and any specific sensitivities:
Doublebase Gel: light gel texture, non-greasy, 30% oil content
Cetraben Cream: light cream, suits mild to moderate dryness
Aveeno Cream: contains colloidal oatmeal, soothing for itch
E45 Cream: contains lanolin, can suit some but not those with lanolin allergy
Hydromol Ointment: thick ointment, very effective but greasy
Epaderm Ointment: thick ointment, suits very dry skin and overnight use
Diprobase Ointment: greasier than the cream, better for very dry skin
The general principle is: lighter formulations for daytime and easier compliance, thicker formulations for severe dryness and overnight use. Many people use both — gel by day, ointment at night.
Who Doublebase Gel suits well
This product works well for people who:
Have mild to moderate dry skin conditions (atopic eczema, mild psoriasis, ichthyosis, seasonal dryness)
Need an emollient they’ll actually use regularly — the non-greasy feel makes adherence easier
Have skin reactive to soaps, fragranced products, or biological washing powders
Want one product the whole family can use (babies, children, adults, older relatives)
Are using topical steroids and need an emollient base alongside
Live in centrally heated homes where indoor air dries the skin
Have hand dermatitis from frequent washing or chemical exposure
Need a daytime emollient that won’t ruin work clothes or makeup
Who might suit other options better
Other options may work better for people who:
Have very severe, cracked, or weeping dry skin — a heavier ointment (Hydromol, Epaderm, Diprobase Ointment) provides more occlusion
Have a known allergy to any of the ingredients (isopropyl myristate, liquid paraffin, phenoxyethanol)
Prefer plant-based or fragrance-led products — Doublebase is a clinical emollient, not a cosmetic
Want active ingredients like colloidal oatmeal (Aveeno), urea (Eucerin), or ceramides (CeraVe)
Have infected skin — emollients can spread infection if used over weeping or pustular areas; see GP first
Need an emollient with sun protection — Doublebase doesn’t contain SPF
Have very oily or acne-prone skin — emollients may not be needed at all
Courier Pharmacy supply
Doublebase Gel is a General Sales List (GSL) emollient medicine. No prescription is needed, and no online consultation is required for purchase. Our pharmacist is on hand to discuss whether Doublebase Gel is the right emollient for your situation — and to suggest alternatives if it isn’t.
Key features and specs
Active ingredients: isopropyl myristate 15% w/w and liquid paraffin 15% w/w
Form: light, non-greasy gel
Pack size: 500g pump dispenser
Age range: all ages including babies
Pump locks for travel (turn the top clockwise)
Free from lanolin, fragrances, dyes, parabens, and SLS
Apply: smooth in gentle strokes in the direction of hair growth
Frequency: as often as needed — at least 2-3 times daily for active dry skin
Can be used as a soap substitute as well as a leave-on moisturiser
Legal status: General Sales List (GSL) medicine, no prescription needed
Storage: below 25°C; don’t freeze
MOJO WISDOM
Take control of your health by understanding your condition and what this medication is doing for you.
READ:
More information about this treatment.
UK-based doctors and pharmacists
Discreet and Confidential
UK-based doctors and pharmacists
Free, Expert Advice
No video link provided.
No video link provided.
UK-based doctors and pharmacists
Free, expert advice
Discrete and confidential
Fast delivery
Giving you trusted clinical advice for over 40 conditions
A UK regulated pharmacy providing safe, effective treatments online since 2014
Dry skin that just won’t stay moisturised — eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, or chronic dryness from cold weather, medications, or age. Maybe you’ve tried oily ointments that work but feel impossible during the day. Maybe lotions that absorb quickly but don’t last. Doublebase gel is designed specifically for this trade-off: a gel formulation that absorbs reasonably quickly without ointment-like residue, while still providing substantial moisturisation and barrier repair through its high content of paraffin and isopropyl myristate. At Courier Pharmacy we want you to understand exactly how Doublebase works, who it suits, and how it compares to other emollient options, so the choice feels properly yours.
Five key takeaways
Doublebase gel is a plain emollient (no active medicines or antimicrobials) containing isopropyl myristate 15% and liquid paraffin 15% in a gel formulation, used for dry skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, and senile pruritus.
The gel formulation absorbs more quickly than ointments without leaving heavy residue, while still providing substantial moisturisation through its high paraffin content. Many patients find it more cosmetically acceptable than ointments for daytime use.
It can be used as both a leave-on moisturiser and a soap substitute. Frequent generous application (3-4 times daily or more) gives the best outcomes for managing dry skin conditions.
There are no time limits on Doublebase use — unlike corticosteroid or antimicrobial products, plain emollients can be used indefinitely for ongoing dry skin management.
It is available as a Pharmacy (P) medicine without prescription in smaller tubes, and on prescription for larger pack sizes (500g pump dispensers).
Treatment dosage Doublebase gel
Doublebase gel is applied liberally and frequently as both a leave-on moisturiser and, in some cases, a soap substitute. There isn’t a strict “dose” — apply as much as needed, as often as needed.
As a leave-on moisturiser:
Apply liberally to dry skin areas and surrounding skin
Use 3-4 times daily or more if skin is very dry
Apply within 3 minutes of washing while skin is still slightly damp (this traps moisture in the skin)
Massage gently in the direction of hair growth to avoid clogging follicles
Don’t rub vigorously; gentle smoothing into the skin is better
Use enough product — most people apply too little
As a soap substitute (washing without conventional soap):
Apply a small amount of gel to dry skin before getting in the bath or shower
Wet your hands and gently massage the gel over the skin
Rinse with water
Pat dry rather than rubbing
Apply more gel (or another emollient) within 3 minutes after drying
For chronic dry skin conditions, Doublebase is often combined with other treatments:
Topical corticosteroids during eczema or psoriasis flares (apply the steroid first, wait 15-30 minutes for it to absorb, then apply Doublebase over the top)
Topical calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for specific indications
Other emollients at different times (e.g. Doublebase during the day, a heavier ointment overnight for very dry skin)
The amount needed varies hugely with body surface area and skin condition. Adult patients with significant dry skin may use 500g of emollient per week or more. The 500g pump dispenser typically lasts 1-2 weeks of liberal application for someone with widespread eczema or psoriasis.
For children, the same liberal approach applies. Doublebase gel can be used in children from birth onwards. Use the amount appropriate for the body surface area being treated.
There are no time limits on Doublebase use — it can be used indefinitely for ongoing dry skin management without the constraints of corticosteroid or antimicrobial products.
Overview of Doublebase gel
Five things worth knowing:
Doublebase gel was developed to specifically to provide substantial moisturisation in a gel vehicle that’s more cosmetically acceptable than ointments. The “Double” in the name refers to the double content of moisturising ingredients (15% + 15% = 30% total).
The gel formulation works by delivering the emollient ingredients in a vehicle that absorbs partially while leaving an effective protective film on the skin. This balance of absorption and persistence is what makes the product work practically.
Unlike Dermol products (which contain antimicrobials), Doublebase contains no antiseptics or other active medicines. This makes it suitable for indefinite use without the sensitisation or microbiome concerns of antimicrobial emollients.
For patients who haven’t found other emollients cosmetically acceptable (too greasy, too thin, too sticky), Doublebase gel often hits the right balance for daytime use. Many patients use Doublebase during the day and heavier emollients overnight.
The product is on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (in its broader emollient class), reflecting the foundational role of emollients in dermatological care worldwide.
Doublebase sits within the broader emollient landscape, with each product offering a different balance:
Pure ointments (white soft paraffin, Hydromol ointment, Epaderm) — most occlusive, best for overnight, cosmetically heaviest
Heavy creams (Hydromol cream, Diprobase cream) — substantial moisturisation, still moderately greasy
Gels (Doublebase gel) — substantial moisturisation in a quicker-absorbing vehicle
Lotions (E45 lotion, Aveeno lotion) — light, quick-absorbing, less occlusive
For most patients with chronic dry skin, no single emollient is “best” — the right choice depends on the body area, the time of day, personal preference, and the specific dry skin condition. Many patients use 2-3 different emollients in different combinations.
The Doublebase-vs-Dermol question often comes up. Both are Dermal Laboratories products. Doublebase is plain (no antimicrobial); Dermol contains chlorhexidine and benzalkonium chloride. For patients with infection-prone eczema, Dermol’s antimicrobial action helps. For patients with stable dry skin without infection concerns, Doublebase is often equally effective and avoids the potential sensitisation concerns of antimicrobial use.
For people living with complex conditions and skin sensitivities, plain emollients like Doublebase are often the safest choice. The lack of antimicrobials, preservatives (relative to many cosmetic moisturisers), and active medicines means less potential for reactivity. For patients who are highly reactive to many products, even plain emollients can sometimes cause issues, but the risk is lower than with medicated products.
The “soap substitute” function deserves practical consideration. Many people with eczema and other dry skin conditions find that even mild conventional soaps strip the skin’s natural oils and trigger flares. Using Doublebase gel (or a dedicated wash product like Doublebase Dayleve) as soap substitute provides cleansing without this drying effect. The gel-based soap substitute approach can substantially reduce flare frequency for some patients.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for Doublebase gel
Plain emollients are foundational to dry skin and eczema management, but the specific emollient choice matters more than it might seem. Different formulations suit different patients, body areas, and times of day. Every Doublebase supply at Courier Pharmacy is reviewed by a UK pharmacist who reads your answers properly, asks about your skin condition and preferences, and explains the decision either way.
We’ll discuss whether Doublebase gel is the right choice. For most patients with plain dry skin without infection concerns, Doublebase gel works well as a primary daily emollient. For patients with infection-prone eczema, an antimicrobial emollient like Dermol may be more appropriate. For patients with very dry skin needing maximum barrier repair, a heavier ointment overnight in addition to Doublebase during the day may work best. For patients with very inflamed or weeping skin, alternative emollients may be tolerated better initially.
We’ll discuss the practical realities of emollient use — generous application, frequent use, soap substitute function, and the fire safety considerations.
Our brand guide, Dr Ada Jex-Cori, sums it up: you’re not broken. The system that’s failed you might be. We want to do the part we can do, properly, and connect you with the rest. That includes our free fortnightly drop-in clinics and talks at the Insomnia coffee shop in Derby, where you can ask questions face-to-face without spending a penny.
Don’t forget to use the coupon code AJC10 to get a 10% discount off all your purchases.
Buy Doublebase gel from Courier Pharmacy
Doublebase gel is available in 100g tubes and a 500g pump dispensers in the UK. Buying through Courier Pharmacy is straightforward and built around your time, not ours.
Here’s how it works:
Complete a quick online consultation about your skin condition
A UK pharmacist reviews your answers
If suitable, supply is approved
We dispense and deliver discreetly to your door
If it isn’t suitable for you, we’ll explain why and suggest the next best option.
Active ingredients in Doublebase gel
Doublebase gel is a plain emollient — it contains no active medicines or antimicrobials. Its effects come from the two main emollient ingredients in the gel vehicle.
Liquid paraffin is a colourless, odourless mineral oil with two main effects on skin:
Occlusive action — it creates a thin film on the skin surface that prevents water loss (transepidermal water loss is dramatically increased in dry skin conditions and many inflammatory dermatoses)
Skin softening — it provides direct lubrication of the skin surface, reducing the rough, scaly texture of dry skin
Liquid paraffin has been used in skin care for over a century. It’s well-characterised, generally well-tolerated, and effective. The main practical limitations are its slightly greasy feel in concentrated forms (like ointments) and the occasional rare sensitivity reactions.
Isopropyl myristate is an emollient ester that provides skin-conditioning effects with a lighter feel than liquid paraffin alone:
Skin penetration enhancement — it helps the formulation penetrate the upper layers of the stratum corneum, providing moisturisation slightly below the surface
Skin smoothing — it improves the surface feel of dry skin
Vehicle improvement — it makes the gel formulation feel less greasy than would otherwise be possible with the high paraffin content
The combination of liquid paraffin (heavy emollient with occlusive action) and isopropyl myristate (lighter emollient with absorption enhancement) at 15% each gives Doublebase its specific balance of moisturisation and cosmetic acceptability.
The gel vehicle contains water, glycerol (a humectant that draws water into the skin), polymeric thickeners, and preservatives. The water base allows the gel to feel less heavy than oil-based ointments while still delivering substantial emollient effect.
After topical application, the emollient ingredients work primarily through their physical effects on the skin surface and barrier:
Immediate moisturisation as the formulation contacts dry skin
Sustained barrier protection as the paraffin film persists for several hours
Cumulative improvement in skin barrier function with regular use
Doublebase doesn’t have systemic effects, doesn’t have meaningful drug interactions, and isn’t significantly absorbed beyond the upper layers of the skin.
What is Doublebase gel for?
Doublebase gel is licensed in the UK for the symptomatic relief of dry skin conditions in adults and children of all ages, including:
Senile pruritus (itching associated with dry skin in older adults)
Psoriasis (as supportive moisturisation alongside specific psoriasis treatments)
Other dry skin conditions including chronic exposure-related dryness, age-related dryness, medication-induced dryness
The licensed scope is broad — essentially any condition involving dry or compromised skin.
Doublebase is not appropriate for:
Active bacterial skin infections (where antibiotic treatment is needed)
Active viral skin infections (where the condition needs different treatment)
Active fungal skin infections (where antifungal treatment is needed)
Open wounds requiring wound care (where wound-specific products are appropriate)
Patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients
NICE guidance for eczema (CG57) recommends emollient use as foundational treatment for atopic eczema. The choice of specific emollient depends on individual preference, body area, severity, and what’s been tried before.
How does Doublebase gel work?
Dry skin conditions all involve, to varying degrees, dysfunction of the skin barrier. The outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum) is the body’s primary barrier to water loss and to penetration of irritants and allergens. In healthy skin, this barrier works through a structured arrangement of skin cells (corneocytes) embedded in a lipid-rich matrix that’s effectively waterproof.
In dry skin conditions, the barrier is compromised. The skin loses water faster than it can be replenished, and the lipid matrix becomes disorganised. The result is:
Visible dryness, flaking, and scaling
Increased sensitivity to irritants
Increased permeability to allergens
Inflammation that can be both cause and consequence of barrier dysfunction
Itching, which leads to scratching, which damages skin further
Doublebase addresses these problems through its emollient action:
The occlusive effect of the liquid paraffin creates a thin film on the skin surface that dramatically reduces water loss from the skin. The film isn’t fully impermeable — the skin needs some breathability — but it slows water loss enough to allow the skin to retain moisture properly. This is particularly important in the first few hours after washing or showering, when transepidermal water loss is highest.
The smoothing effect of both ingredients lubricates the skin surface, reducing the rough, scaly texture of dry skin. This isn’t just cosmetic — the smoother surface is less prone to itching and the inflammatory cascade that itching triggers.
The barrier repair effect of regular emollient use supports the natural repair processes of the skin. With consistent moisturisation, the barrier can rebuild over weeks of use, leading to improvements that persist beyond individual applications.
The “soap substitute” function addresses one of the main practical problems for patients with dry skin: conventional soaps strip the natural skin oils and disrupt the barrier further. Using Doublebase as a wash substitute provides cleansing while simultaneously moisturising, preventing the drying effect of conventional soaps.
The combined effect over time is gradual improvement in skin barrier function and reduction in dry skin symptoms. For acute flares of eczema or other inflammatory conditions, emollients alone aren’t enough — specific anti-inflammatory treatment (typically topical corticosteroids) is needed alongside the emollient.
Onset of moisturisation is immediate. Visible improvement in skin appearance and feel is usually noticed within days of consistent use. Cumulative barrier repair builds over weeks of regular use.
How to use Doublebase gel
Apply Doublebase gel liberally and frequently to dry skin areas. The product is designed for generous, repeated application.
As a leave-on moisturiser:
Wash and gently pat dry the affected skin (don’t rub dry)
Within 3 minutes of patting dry (while skin is still slightly damp), apply Doublebase liberally
Smooth the gel into the skin in the direction of hair growth
Don’t rub vigorously; gentle application is more effective and less likely to clog follicles
Apply enough to leave a thin protective film on the skin
Repeat 3-4 times daily, or more for very dry skin
The recommended amount for adults with significant dry skin is around 500g per week of emollient. This is much more than most people spontaneously apply; deliberate generous use is key to good outcomes.
As a soap substitute:
Before getting in the shower or bath, apply Doublebase to dry skin where you would normally use soap
Get in the shower or bath
Wet your hands and gently massage the gel into the skin
Rinse with water
Pat dry rather than rubbing
Apply more Doublebase or another emollient within 3 minutes
This approach cleans the skin (the emollient and water together emulsify dirt and oil) without the drying effects of conventional soap. Some patients find this approach transformative for their dry skin management.
Combining with other treatments:
For eczema or psoriasis flares requiring topical corticosteroids:
Apply the corticosteroid to affected areas
Wait 15-30 minutes for it to absorb
Apply Doublebase over the area and to surrounding skin
Don’t mix the corticosteroid and emollient in your hand before applying
For patients with both dry skin and infection-prone areas, alternating between Doublebase and an antimicrobial emollient (like Dermol) can be useful — Doublebase for general moisturisation, Dermol for flare-prone or infection-prone areas.
Practical considerations:
Doublebase gel is generally well-tolerated; significant initial stinging is uncommon
The gel can absorb partially while leaving a thin protective film — this is what gives it the balance between moisturisation and cosmetic acceptability
It won’t stain clothing significantly
Allow some absorption time before dressing in fitted clothes
For overnight use, heavier emollients (white soft paraffin, Hydromol ointment) provide better barrier repair
Keep some gel by the bedside, in the bathroom, and in your bag — easy access promotes frequent use
Pump dispensers are more hygienic than tubs (no introducing bacteria from fingers)
Special situations:
For facial use, apply sparingly; some patients find it slightly heavy for facial skin
Avoid getting in the eyes; if it happens, rinse with water (irritation will be mild as there are no antimicrobials)
For very inflamed or broken skin, some patients find gels more tolerable than ointments
Can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without special precautions
If you miss applications, just resume normal use; there’s no need to “make up” missed doses.
Warnings and precautions for Doublebase gel
Doublebase gel is contraindicated in:
Known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients
This is essentially the only contraindication — the product is otherwise very well-tolerated and suitable for use in almost all patients with dry skin conditions.
Use with care in:
Patients with very inflamed or weeping skin (where mild initial stinging may occur, although this is uncommon with Doublebase)
Patients with multiple skin sensitivities (where even plain emollients can sometimes cause issues)
Patients with active skin infections (which need specific treatment alongside emollient use)
Patients with open wounds (which need wound-specific care)
Fire safety is the main practical safety consideration. Emollients containing paraffin (which is almost all of them, including Doublebase) can be a fire hazard if they soak into clothing, bedding, or dressings. The risk is particularly relevant for patients applying large amounts of emollient who then have contact with open flames, smoking materials, or sparks.
Practical measures to reduce fire risk:
Change clothing and bedding regularly during heavy emollient use
Wash clothing and bedding at high temperatures to remove paraffin residue
Don’t smoke or use open flames near skin or clothing soaked in emollient
Don’t use emollients near candles or other open flames
Be cautious near gas hobs or other ignition sources
The MHRA has issued specific safety guidance about emollient fire risks, particularly for patients with multiple risk factors (heavy use, smoking, mobility issues, dementia). For most patients applying emollients normally, the risk is low but worth being aware of.
Initial stinging can occur on broken or very inflamed skin, although Doublebase is generally well-tolerated. If persistent or severe, alternative emollients may be better.
Follicular reactions (folliculitis, irritation around hair follicles) can occur if emollient is rubbed in against the direction of hair growth. Smooth in the direction of hair growth to minimise this.
Allergic reactions are uncommon but can occur to any of the ingredients (most commonly the preservatives). If you develop a new rash, particularly one that worsens with each application, stop the medicine and consider alternatives. Try a different emollient under guidance.
Pregnancy: Doublebase can be used freely during pregnancy. No special precautions needed.
Breastfeeding: Doublebase can be used freely during breastfeeding. If applying to the breast area, wipe the application area before breastfeeding to avoid the infant ingesting the product.
Children: Doublebase can be used in children of all ages, including newborns. Use the amount appropriate for body surface area.
If your skin condition worsens during Doublebase use, the most likely cause is the underlying condition needing different treatment, not the emollient itself. Plain emollients essentially never cause worsening of inflammatory dermatoses. Contact your prescriber for review.
Side effects of Doublebase gel
Most patients tolerate Doublebase gel very well. Side effects are uncommon and generally mild.
Common side effects, between 1 in 100 and 1 in 10 people, are essentially non-existent for a plain emollient. The most “common” experience that some patients report is a slight tackiness or temporary residue feel after application, which isn’t really a side effect — it’s just the nature of an emollient gel.
Uncommon side effects, between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 100 people, include mild local irritation (more likely on very inflamed or broken skin), folliculitis (if applied against hair growth direction), and rare allergic contact dermatitis to one of the ingredients (most commonly the preservatives).
Rare side effects, fewer than 1 in 1,000 people, include allergic contact dermatitis requiring discontinuation, and theoretical reactions to specific ingredients in highly sensitised individuals.
Very rare and serious side effects include severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. This is essentially unreported for plain emollients but worth listing for completeness. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency; call 999.
The fire safety considerations mentioned in the warnings section aren’t side effects in the medical sense but are the most clinically important safety consideration for emollient use generally.
If you experience any side effect that worries you, you can report it directly to the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme. This helps improve safety data for everyone who uses the medicine. Our pharmacy team are happy to help you submit a Yellow Card report if you’d like assistance.
Drug interactions with Doublebase gel
Doublebase gel has essentially no significant drug interactions. As a plain emollient with no active medicines, it doesn’t interact with systemic medicines.
Local considerations:
Topical corticosteroids — Doublebase is often used alongside topical corticosteroids for eczema or psoriasis. Apply the steroid first, allow to absorb, then apply Doublebase. This sequencing maximises both treatments’ effectiveness. Don’t mix them in the same application.
Topical calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) — same principle; apply the calcineurin inhibitor first, allow to absorb, then apply Doublebase.
Other emollients — combining different emollients (Doublebase during the day, a heavier emollient overnight, for example) is generally fine and often beneficial.
Other topical products — most other topical medicines can be combined with Doublebase, with attention to sequencing.
Cosmetic products — sunscreens, makeup, and other cosmetic products can be applied after Doublebase has absorbed.
Tell your prescriber or pharmacist about all medicines and skin products you use, although significant interactions with plain emollients are very rare.
Frequently asked questions about Doublebase gel
What is Doublebase gel used for?
Doublebase gel is a plain emollient used for the symptomatic relief of dry skin conditions including atopic eczema, contact dermatitis, ichthyosis, senile pruritus, psoriasis, and other conditions where the skin barrier is compromised.
How is Doublebase different from Dermol cream?
Both are made by Dermal Laboratories. Doublebase is a plain emollient (no antimicrobials); Dermol contains chlorhexidine and benzalkonium chloride as antiseptics in addition to its emollient ingredients. Doublebase suits patients without infection concerns; Dermol suits infection-prone eczema.
How is Doublebase different from ointments like Hydromol or white soft paraffin?
All are emollients. Ointments are heavier, greasier, and more occlusive — best for overnight or very dry skin. Doublebase gel is lighter and absorbs more quickly, making it more cosmetically acceptable for daytime use. Many patients use both: a gel like Doublebase during the day and an ointment overnight.
How does Doublebase work?
The two main ingredients (liquid paraffin and isopropyl myristate) at 15% each provide substantial moisturisation through occlusive action (preventing water loss) and direct skin softening. The gel formulation absorbs partially while leaving a protective film on the skin.
How often should I apply Doublebase?
Apply liberally 3-4 times daily, or more if your skin is very dry. Within 3 minutes of washing while skin is still slightly damp is particularly effective. Use as much as needed — under-using is the most common mistake.
Can I use Doublebase as a soap substitute?
Yes, this is one of its specific intended uses. Apply the gel to dry skin before getting in the shower or bath, then wet your hands and gently massage. Rinse with water. This cleans the skin without the drying effects of conventional soap.
Can I use Doublebase on my face?
Yes, although some patients find it slightly heavy for facial skin. For sensitive facial areas, lighter emollients may be preferable. If you tolerate it on the face, it’s perfectly safe.
Can I use Doublebase on my children?
Yes, Doublebase can be used in children of all ages, including newborns. Use the amount appropriate for body surface area.
Can I use Doublebase during pregnancy?
Yes, Doublebase can be used freely during pregnancy. No special precautions needed.
Is Doublebase safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. If applying to the breast area, wipe the application area before breastfeeding to avoid the infant ingesting the product.
Will Doublebase make my skin greasy?
The gel formulation is less greasy than ointments but still leaves a protective film. Some patients find this slightly tacky initially; it usually settles as the formulation absorbs partially. For minimal residue feel, apply a smaller amount and let it absorb fully.
Can I use Doublebase with topical steroids?
Yes, this combination is standard for eczema and psoriasis. Apply the steroid first, wait 15-30 minutes for it to absorb, then apply Doublebase over the top. Don’t mix them in the same application.
Why are emollients a fire risk?
Emollients containing paraffin can soak into clothing, bedding, and dressings, where they become flammable. The risk is particularly relevant near smoking materials, open flames, or sparks. Change clothing and bedding regularly during heavy emollient use, and don’t smoke near soaked materials.
How long can I use Doublebase?
Unlike corticosteroid or antimicrobial products with time limits, Doublebase can be used indefinitely. Many patients use it for years as part of ongoing dry skin or eczema management.
What’s the difference between Doublebase gel and Doublebase Dayleve?
Doublebase Dayleve is a wash-off product (cleansing emollient) designed primarily for use as a soap substitute. Doublebase gel is a leave-on emollient. The two can be used together — Dayleve in the shower for washing, gel as a leave-on moisturiser.
Can I be allergic to Doublebase?
Allergic reactions are very uncommon, but theoretically possible to any of the ingredients (most commonly preservatives). If you develop a new rash, particularly one that worsens with each application, try a different emollient under guidance.
Will Doublebase cure my eczema?
No, eczema is a chronic condition with no cure. Doublebase helps manage the condition by supporting the skin barrier and reducing dryness, which can reduce flare frequency. Other treatments (topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, systemic treatments) are usually needed alongside emollients for active management.
Can I use Doublebase with other emollients?
Yes, many patients benefit from using different emollients at different times of day or for different body areas. Doublebase during the day plus an ointment overnight is a common combination for very dry skin.
What if Doublebase doesn’t help my dry skin?
If 2-3 weeks of consistent generous use doesn’t improve your skin, options include: trying a different emollient (heavier ointment, antimicrobial emollient, or different gel formulation), assessing whether a corticosteroid is needed for an underlying inflammatory component, or specialist dermatology referral.
Can I stop Doublebase suddenly?
Yes, Doublebase can be stopped at any time. Your skin will become drier without ongoing emollient use, so switching to another emollient rather than stopping all moisturisation is usually preferred.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and isn’t a substitute for personal medical advice. Always speak to a qualified prescriber before starting or changing treatment.
