Kutan Emulsion
Kutan Emulsion
Product Description
Product overview
A Swedish pharmaceutical-grade emollient emulsion with 20% Propylene Glycol designed to treat dry skin of all types. This lightweight, non-greasy cutaneous emulsion binds water to the skin, strengthens the barrier, and provides mild antimicrobial protection against certain fungi and bacteria. Suitable for the whole family from age 0+.
Deep Hydration
20% Propylene Glycol acts as a powerful humectant, binding water to the skin and drawing moisture into the upper layers for long-lasting hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Hydration
20% Propylene Glycol acts as a powerful humectant, binding water to the skin and drawing moisture into the upper layers for long-lasting hydration.
Barrier Strengthening
The emollient base with petrolatum, glycerin, and dimethicone creates a protective shield, reinforcing the skin barrier and reducing transepidermal water loss.
Mild Antimicrobial Action
Propylene glycol provides natural antimicrobial properties against certain fungi and bacteria, making this ideal for compromised or irritation-prone skin.
Lightweight & Non-Greasy
Despite containing 9% fat, the emulsion formula is lighter than a cream. Absorbs easily and works well on hairy body areas without leaving residue.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo known risks during pregnancy according to the official product information sheet. Safe for topical use on body, hands, and face.
Safe to use while breastfeeding, but do not apply on nipples to avoid oral exposure of propylene glycol to the nursing infant.
Contains stearic acid, palmitic acid, cetyl alcohol, and glyceryl stearate — fatty acids and esters that can feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne.
Most ingredients are non-comedogenic. Petrolatum scores 0–1, though cetyl alcohol and stearic acid score 2. Low risk for most skin types.
Contains 8 mg/g benzyl alcohol as a preservative. May cause mild local irritation or allergic reactions in individuals with benzyl alcohol sensitivity.
Do not use on newborns (under 4 weeks) with open wounds or large areas of damaged skin without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPropylene Glycol 20%Proven
The star active ingredient. A powerful humectant that draws water into the skin, softens the stratum corneum, and provides mild antimicrobial activity against certain fungi and bacteria. Also acts as a penetration enhancer for the emollient base.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, antimicrobial, penetration enhancer
- Concentration: 200 mg per gram (20%) — pharmaceutical-grade therapeutic dose
- Evidence: Extensively studied for decades as a skin moisturizer and emollient in dermatological products
Petrolatum (White Vaseline)Proven
The gold-standard occlusive agent. Sits on the skin surface and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99%, sealing in the moisture that propylene glycol draws to the skin.
- Function: Occlusive, barrier protection, emollient
- Comedogenicity: 0–1 (non-comedogenic)
- Evidence: Over 150 years of safe use in skincare since 1872. USP-grade petrolatum has no evidence of carcinogenicity
Glycerin (Glycerol)Proven
A skin-identical humectant that is naturally found in human skin. Maintains skin lipids in a healthy liquid-crystal state, protects against irritation, and helps restore the skin barrier. Studies show glycerin is more effective as a humectant than even hyaluronic acid.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical ingredient, barrier support
- Irritancy: 0 |Comedogenicity: 0
- Evidence: 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a humectant
DimethiconeProven
A widely used silicone polymer that creates a silky, protective barrier on the skin. Fills fine lines, softens scars, and improves skin texture while allowing skin to breathe. Non-irritating and does not absorb into the skin.
- Function: Occlusive, emollient, skin protectant, texture enhancer
- Evidence: Used in scar treatment gels to soften scars and increase elasticity
Zinc GlutamatePromising
A zinc salt of glutamic acid that serves as a humectant moisturizer and skin-conditioning agent. Glutamic acid is a naturally occurring amino acid in the body. The zinc component may provide additional skin-soothing and antimicrobial benefits.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioning, antimicrobial support
- Note: Amino acid-based ingredient that supports overall skin hydration
Aluminum PCAPromising
Aluminum salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) component. PCA is naturally present in the skin's outermost layer and helps maintain hydration balance.
- Function: Humectant, astringent, skin conditioning
- Note: PCA is part of the skin's natural moisturizing system
16 ingredients
Propylene Glycol, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Glycerin, Benzyl Alcohol, Petrolatum, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Zinc Glutamate, Glyceryl Stearate, Aluminum PCA, Magnesium Silicate, Dimethicone, Silicone, Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing as your primary emollient moisturizer. Can also be used as a standalone treatment — apply thinly and often rather than thickly and rarely. Reapply after showering or contact with water.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face, hands, or body as usual. For best results, apply within a few minutes after bathing or showering while skin is still slightly damp.
Apply a Thin Layer
Squeeze a small amount of emulsion onto your fingertips. Apply a thin, even layer over the dry areas on your face, hands, or body.
Massage In Gently
Massage the emulsion into the skin until it feels moist and soft but not sticky. The formula absorbs without greasiness — ideal even for hairy body areas.
Reapply as Needed
Use 2 to several times daily and always after contact with water. Remember: thin and frequent applications work better than thick and occasional ones.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have chronically dry, rough, or flaky skin on face or body
- You suffer from eczema or atopic dermatitis and need a medical-grade emollient
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that works on hairy body areas
- You need a fragrance-free, paraben-free formula for the whole family
- You are pregnant and need a safe emollient for dry skin
- You prefer pharmaceutical-grade Scandinavian skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula contains fatty acids that can feed yeast
- You are allergic to propylene glycol or benzyl alcohol
- You prefer silicone-free or petrolatum-free skincare
- You want active anti-aging ingredients like ceramides or niacinamide
- You have very oily skin — the emollient base may feel too heavy
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis product was specifically designed for dry skin. The 20% propylene glycol and petrolatum base deliver powerful hydration and barrier protection.
Works well as a daily moisturizer. Lightweight enough for everyday use without feeling heavy or greasy on normal skin.
Best applied to dry patches only. May add unwanted shine to the T-zone. Use selectively for best results.
The petrolatum and fatty acid base may increase shine and feel too heavy. Consider a lighter, water-based moisturizer instead.
Fragrance-free and paraben-free with a simple ingredient list. However, patch test first — propylene glycol and benzyl alcohol can irritate very reactive skin.
Classified as an OTC medicine in Sweden for treating dry skin. Community users praise it highly for softening eczema-prone skin.
Results timeline
4+ WEEKSInstant Softening & Relief
Skin feels immediately softer and more supple upon application. The emulsion absorbs within 1–2 minutes leaving skin moisturized without stickiness.
95% noticed instant softeningReduced Dryness & Flaking
With regular application (2–3 times daily), rough patches begin to soften significantly. Flaking and scaling are visibly reduced.
80% noticed improvementBarrier Restoration
Consistent use rebuilds the skin barrier. Skin retains moisture better between applications, and the need for reapplication may decrease.
70% noticed lasting hydrationSmoother, Healthier Skin
Long-term use results in noticeably smoother, more resilient skin. Eczema flare-ups may become less frequent with consistent emollient therapy.
65% reported smoother skin textureRatings by platform
400+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent for eczema — softens skin noticeably and helps with flare-ups
- Lightweight gel-like texture that is non-greasy and easy to spread
- Works well on hairy body parts without residue
- Pharmaceutical-grade product with proven efficacy for dry skin
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, safe for the whole family including babies
- Affordable price point for a medical-grade emollient
- Simple, clean 16-ingredient formula without unnecessary additives
Criticized
- Slight tacky feeling on initial application before it fully absorbs
- Faint glue-like scent that some users find unpleasant
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acids in the formula
- Limited availability outside Scandinavia — hard to purchase internationally
- May feel too heavy for oily skin types
- Takes 1–2 minutes to absorb fully — not instant absorption
- Some very sensitive individuals may react to propylene glycol at 20%
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar propylene glycol-based emollient formula from the same pharmaceutical family (MSD). Contains additional urea and lecithin for enhanced exfoliation and barrier repair. Widely available in South Asia.
Also contains propylene glycol and petrolatum in a fragrance-free, paraben-free base. Thicker cream texture vs. Propyless emulsion. More widely available internationally. Suitable for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Swedish pharmacy alternative that uses 20% glycerol instead of propylene glycol as the main humectant. Thicker, stickier texture. Also contains petrolatum and dimethicone. Same Scandinavian pharmacy origin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme heat.
Tube (100g) or tub/jar (510g). Pharmaceutical-grade packaging with tamper seal.
Yes — the 100g tube is under the TSA/EU liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. According to the official pharmaceutical product information, there are no known risks during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, the product is safe to use but should not be applied to the nipples to prevent the nursing baby from being unnecessarily exposed to propylene glycol orally.
No. Kutan Emulsion contains stearic acid, palmitic acid, cetyl alcohol, and glyceryl stearate — all of which are fatty acids or esters that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne breakouts. If you have fungal acne, look for a malassezia-safe alternative.
Yes. According to the official product information, no drug interactions are documented. Kutan Emulsion is a simple emollient and can be safely layered with active ingredients. In fact, the SkinSort community frequently pairs it with products like Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant and Galderma Epiduo. Apply your actives first, then layer Kutan Emulsion on top as your moisturizing step.
Kutan Emulsion is specifically designed for dry skin of all types, including eczema-prone and atopic dermatitis skin. It works excellently for dry to normal skin. It also performs well on sensitive skin thanks to its fragrance-free, simple formula. However, it may feel too heavy for oily or combination skin types due to its petrolatum and fatty acid content.
Immediate softening and moisture relief is noticeable right after the first application. Significant improvement in dryness and flaking typically occurs within 1–3 days of consistent use (2–3 times daily). For barrier repair and long-term skin texture improvement, expect 2–4 weeks of regular use.
Kutan Emulsion is typically used as Step 2 in a routine — right after cleansing. It serves as your primary moisturizer/emollient. Apply after cleansing and before any heavier occlusive or sunscreen. It can be used on face, hands, and body. For best results, apply within a few minutes after showering while skin is still damp.
Kutan Emulsion has a low comedogenic risk, rated approximately 2 out of 5. Petrolatum (the main occlusive) is non-comedogenic at 0–1, while cetyl alcohol and stearic acid rate at 2. For most skin types, this should not cause breakouts. However, if you are highly acne-prone, patch test before full use.
The product should be used within 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store at room temperature. The benzyl alcohol preservative helps maintain product stability throughout its shelf life. Always check the expiry date printed on the packaging.
Verdict: Propyless Kutan Emulsion is a no-nonsense, pharmaceutical-grade Swedish emollient that excels at what it's designed to do — treat and protect dry skin. The 20% propylene glycol base delivers effective hydration and mild antimicrobial action in a lightweight, non-greasy formula. It's an excellent choice for eczema-prone, dry, and sensitive skin types, and the clean 16-ingredient formula is pregnancy safe and suitable for the whole family. The main downsides are limited international availability, the initial tacky feel, and it's not safe for fungal acne-prone skin. If you want a reliable, medical-grade emollient with Scandinavian pedigree, this is a solid pick.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Xanthan Gum
Binding Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Skin Conditioning, Surfactant -Emulsifying Agent, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding, Gel Forming, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|