Emollient Creams
Researchers: Professor Stuart Clarke, Zedric Zebedee Grosvenor
The Problem
Emollient creams are widely used to treat skin conditions, but emollients have been linked to a number of fires.
Work Needed
We aim to investigate how to prevent these fire incidents by altering the formulation of these creams, but without impacting the feel and function of these dermatological products.
Our Work
We are working to colloidally disperse non-combustible, dermatologically safe particulates into the formulation of emollient creams. In addition we will try to prevent ‘wicking’ and deploying safe anti-fire agents.
Background
Emollient creams are designed to soothe and hydrate irritated skin, commonly prescribed for conditions like eczema or psoriasis. These creams are typically emulsions of oil and water that form a protective barrier on the skin.
However, emollients have been implicated in a number of incidents such as fires in care homes and individuals residences; the British Medical Journal identify emollients as the cause of 49 fatal fire incidents in England alone from 2000-2018. It has been suggested that the presence of long-chain paraffins in creams can lead to the formation of a combustible residue when the creams are absorbed onto and into fabrics, such as bedding and clothing. This residue can ignite if exposed to an open flame, and has been reported to burn more aggressively than without the residues. The government requires that emollients now include fire warnings.
Our Work
Building on previous Institute research into fire risk mitigation, we are exploring innovative approaches to reduce the fire hazards associated with emollient creams. Our past work included experimenting with dispersed inorganic solids to prevent fires by stopping them from igniting or spreading.
In this project, we aim to colloidally disperse non-combustible, dermatologically safe particulates into the formulation of emollient creams. These modified formulations will then be subjected to rigorous fire testing to evaluate their effectiveness.

Fire testing
Key Considerations…
In addition to controlling fire risk, our research involves considering a variety of important factors to ensure the creams remain safe and practical for everyday use:
- Rheology: The texture and feel of the cream must remain appropriate for personal use.
- Appearance: As these are cosmetic products, maintaining the visual characteristics is important. This includes considerations of specular and non-specular light reflection which may be affected by any dispersed particles.
- Fire Suppression Mechanisms: In the event that a fire does start, we aim to include thermally triggered release systems that deploy anti-fire agents to suppress the flames.
- Flow and Wettability: It is crucial to control how the cream spreads and interacts with fabrics to prevent wicking, which can enhance fire spread.

A diagram explaining the wicking effect

Wick blocking – Colloidal particles in dispersion may clog/block the wick (i.e. cotton sheeting) and stop the flow of fuel, so the flame goes out.

Wick combustion or charring – fibres burn completely or prevent further burning by creating a charcoal layer starving the flame of fuel.
Implications
We aim to reduce the fire risks associated with emollient creams, helping to prevent future tragedies. By addressing both safety and use, this research could play a vital role in protecting lives while preserving the functionality of these important and widely used skincare products.
Collaborations
To ensure its success, this project will benefit from contact with experts from industry, experts from other institutions, and interdisciplinary communication, such as with dermatologists.