15 clever uses for Sudocrem, from beauty to first aid for both babies and parents

It may not be the most glamorous pot in your bathroom, but when it comes to multitasking, few products work harder than Sudocrem. From soothing nappy rash to easing the itch of baby eczema, it has more uses than you might have guessed. Did you know you can use Sudocrem on spots? Or to save your hairline from dye drips? A firm favourite with parents, Sudocrem gets glowing reviews as a good all-rounder that can be used for almost everything, replacing the need to carry multiple pots in your changing bag. Read on to discover what Sudocrem can be used for, for both adults and little ones.

How does Sudocrem work?

Before we look at the uses, it's worth looking at Sudocrem's ingredients to understand why this little pot of cream is so versatile. The key ingredients of Sudocrem are:

Zinc oxide: helps to reduce the loss of fluid from the skin. A water-repellent base forms a protective barrier, helping to stop any irritants from coming into contact with the skin

Anhydrous hypoallergenic lanolin: an emollient which soothes and softens skin.

Benzyl alcohol: which has local anaesthetic and antiseptic properties that help to reduce discomfort and make it an ideal addition to your baby first-aid kit.

15 Sudocrem uses you might not have thought about

1. Soothing stretch marks and scars

Sudocrem is a lifesaver, especially for reducing the itchiness from stretch marks in pregnancy and a good cover-up for any scars. But as with any skincare products, if it doesn't work for you and is causing more irritation, try another stretch mark cream to ease the itch.

2. Minimising red bumps after plucking eyebrows

Sudocrem can be used to ease the pain and soreness after plucking your eyebrows by applying some afterwards to reduce the redness, bumps and stinging. Try it out after waxing too.

3. Getting rid of spots

Many have found that Sudocrem helps with spots, whether that's teenage pimples or acne in pregnancy. Just add a dab of Sudocrem on the spot in question and leave overnight. Thanks to its zinc oxide and benzyl alcohol, it has anti-inflammatory properties which will calm the redness and swelling while the mild local anaesthetic can soothe discomfort.

4. Soothing eczema

Eczema and baby eczema can be uncomfortable for both adults and children but Sudocrem can help reduce the redness and calm irritation.

5. Reducing the pain and redness of sunburn

While sunburn is something we should all be avoiding with the best sunscreen, we know that sometimes you can get caught out and catch more sun than you meant to. Luckily, that handy pot of Sudocrem can come in handy here too. The zinc oxide in Sudocrem can reduce the redness of sunburn while the local anaesthetic can soothe the pain and irritation.

6. Protecting your skin from hair dye

If you're thinking of dying your hair, grab a pot of Sudocrem first. Putting a thin layer of Sudocrem along your hairline will help protect your skin from any drips of dye.

7. Stopping skin chafing

We may love the summer sun but the red marks caused by chafing thighs are less enjoyable. Applying some Sudocrem to your thighs will stop chafing in the hot summer and instantly make you more comfortable.

8. Avoiding fake tan hands

If you like a bit of fake tan, this is a must-know. Apply some Sudocrem to your hands before you apply your tan and it will act as a barrier. Say goodbye to any telltale brown marks on your hands.

9. A cheap primer

Apply a tiny bit of Sudocrem here and there before applying your foundation and your make-up won't sink into your skin or cake on the surface.

10. Easing the itch of stings and bites

Sudocrem is also the perfect remedy for your mozzie bites and wasp stings. The mild local anaesthetic helps soothe discomfort; while also forming a barrier that can stop infections. Pack it along with your insect repellent when you go on holiday and you should be able to fend off the irritating itches.

11. Dog rashes and dry patches

Sudocrem is recommended by many vets for any dry patches and rashes your dog may have. Make sure you rub it in well before your dog licks it off!

12. Soothing sore noses

Sudocrem is a great product to have in your first aid kit for treating a cold. Apply it under the nose to soothe sore skin.

13. Protecting newly painted nails

The last thing you want to see is your perfect nails, ruined by washing the dishes. So protect them with Sudocrem. Its water-repellent base creates a protective seal over the nail.

14. Stopping the itch of Chillblains

If you suffer from chilblains you'll know that pain and irritation they can cause. Rubbing a little onto the chillblain can alleviate itching and pain while the water-repellent base creates a protective barrier, helping to prevent further irritation or infection.

15. Easing and protecting small cuts & burns

Sudocrem contains benzyl benzoate and benzyl cinnamate, which are both recognised for their healing properties, and benzyl alcohol, which is a local anaesthetic which eases localised pain and irritation. As well as these antiseptic healing properties, it also forms a protective barrier to prevent infection and help the skin repair and heal.

About the author

Rebecca Lancaster is a Digital Writer for Mother&Baby, drawing on ten years of parenting her two children to help others navigating their own parenting journey. As a freelance writer, she spent ten years working with leading lifestyle brands, from travel companies to food and drink start-ups, and writing everything from hotel reviews to guides to the best British cheeses. She’s particularly interested in travel and introducing her children to the excitement of visiting new places, trying different foods (less successfully) and experiencing different cultures.