
Fire risks of emollient skin products
Emollients are used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis and can come in creams, lotions or sprays.
Date posted 5 December 2025
These can be prescribed or bought over the counter. All emollients carry a fire risk, not just the ones that are marked as flammable or contain paraffin. Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service have produced a 6-minute film to tell you about the risks. If someone smokes, uses a portable heater or goes near an open flame and these creams are soaked into their bedding or clothing, they can catch fire.
Link – https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&si=1HqOX3dLkiV2IRnD&v=rLwaNbPJr-c&feature=youtu.be