I have always had sensitive skin, as does my mother, and I had horrible eczema as a child. It went away sometime during my teens, however, when I developed hypothyroidism the texture and health of my skin really deteriorated. I started developing allergies to anything, but especially things I used every day, like fabric conditioner and detergents. After having a shower I would be covered itchy red lumps and the skin on my arms and legs started drying out and cracking. That's when my mum bought me a tub of E45.

E45 is a thick, white, cold cream that has no perfume. It comes in bottles of 200ml and 500ml, and a tub of 350g. E45 also does a range of bath stuff - shampoo and body wash - but I have never tried them. I will definitely consider them, though, as I am allergic to even Simple shampoo. I trust E45's experience, and hopefully you'll understand why!

According to the website, "E45 Lotion contains MedilanTM, a purified, hypoallergenic form of lanolin with excellent moisturising properties." According to the ingredients on the tub, it contains light liquid paraffin, white soft paraffin and anhydrous lanolin. I have no idea what those ingredients are!

I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that E45 has really improved my life. A tub of it has lasted months even though I use it everyday. My skin is a lot healthier though I still have a lot of allergic reactions. I also use it on rough elbows and knees, and my face if I get dry patches on my cheeks, though many people say it is too heavy an emollient to be used on the face, I have had few problems. The cream soaks in exceptionally quickly, it's like watching your skin take a drink (if you'll excuse that disturbing imagery).

The only complaint I have is that I often get a huge shock when someone rubs it into my back - it is cold alone, but combined with potentially freezing hands it's enough to make you scream!

My mum originally bought me a £5.50 bottle of 500ml, and when I got through that, she then bought me a 350g tub for £6.99, both from Boots. I notice that it is rarely on offer, but it is hard to begrudge them that. I would recommend the 350g tub, as it lasts very well and is easy to apply to your body (no blockages in any pumps). I have had mine 6 months and still have a third left. The tub also seems to be better value overall.

I think everyone should have a tub of E45 in their home - it's useful for a range of dermatological conditions as well as nappy-changing, removing make-up or just being nice to your skin.