E45 has been something I've grown up with, being one of those 'cure all' creams my mum used to always keep in the cupboard. Years later, I'm still using it and consider it a must-have for dry skin emergencies.

The E45 range has grown to include several sizes and formats of their cream, as well as products designed for younger skin, bath oils, shower creams and shampoos. This review is for the standard cream (this falls in to their emollient range, rather than their more recent 'endless moisture' range), which you can buy in different sizes. I tend to buy a smaller tube than the larger tub because I like to be able to have the tube handy or be able to pop it in my bag because it comes in handy when you least expect it! A 50g tube sets you back around £1.99 (Boots), though it can be found cheaper elsewhere and the products are often on offer.

A 50g tube, even though small compared to a larger 350g tub (for around £7-8), is enough for my needs and still seems to last me quite a long time, so for this reason I would say it's good value for money. You can also buy it in 125g and 500g. The tube, which comes in a box, is quite plain and basic with a white design and the E45 logo clearly visible. It's simple and understated, but recognisable. It has a twist top that's easy to remove and put back on, and the cream comes out well (not too slowly but not too watery a consistency that it goes everywhere!).

This is a product I consider to be good quality and I trust the brand to be kind to skin, for example, as it is perfume free and dermatologically tested. The brand has been going since the 1950s so they've got plenty of expertise and experience, and they're very popular worldwide, often recognised as being a family favourite and for being effective.

The cream can be used by anyone, including babies, and it's safe and gentle enough to skin to use everyday. Even though this is suitable for any age, I believe you need to be 16 to buy this, and it's for external use only. Having said this, there may be ingredients that your skin doesn't take too kindly to, so obviously if you notice anything getting worse or irritation caused that wasn't there before then discontinue use. It's designed, and clinically proven, to treat dry, rough, itching or flaking skin, to leave it soothed and nourished. It's also good for sunburn and because it's specifically designed for dry skin, it's also recommended for more serious conditions like dermatitis, eczema and some dry psoriasis. It does this by replacing moisture that has been lost and 'forming a protective barrier', relieving your skin and leaving it comfortable again

For first time use of the tube you'll need to break the metallic seal, then you can squeeze a small blob on to your finger or affected area and rub in. You can do it 2-3 times daily, or just as and when required. The more serious the condition, or the drier the skin, the more liberally you may want to apply the cream, both in the amount used and how often.

The cream itself is of a relatively thick consistency but smooths on to skin well and absorbs quite quickly depending on how much you use. It's white in colour but isn't visible once rubbed in. It has a recognisable, slightly sweet scent, but it's not overpowering. I actually find the cream very easy and pleasant to use, which is helped by the fact it sinks in to skin well. I have used this on damaged skin on several occasions over the years and have found it to be very effective at soothing skin, calming irritation and adding moisture to dry skin. It's a very versatile product that I would highly recommend because it usually seems to have a have a use around the house and when out and about.

50g tube sells for around £1.99 (Boots)
[Also reviewed by me, gothic_moon, on Ciao]