Parents are only just learning how Sudocrem got its name, nearly a century after the popular nappy rash cream first hit shelves. The over-the-counter medicated cream has been a household staple since 1931, but its origin story is only now coming to light through social media.
The Surprising Name Origin
In a viral TikTok video, mum Maddy Dann expressed shock upon discovering that Sudocrem contains lavender fragrance. This revelation prompted another user to share a fun fact: the cream was originally called Soother Cream, but the Irish accent made it sound like Sudocrem. An Irish viewer confirmed: "It's 100% true! It's literally 'soothing cream' spelled phonetically in a thick Dublin accent. The company eventually just gave up fighting it and legally changed the name."
Historical Background
Sudocrem was developed by Dublin pharmacist Thomas Smith, who created it for customers needing a nappy cream. It was initially named Smith's Cream, but due to its soothing properties, it became known as Soothing Cream. According to Sudocrem's official history page, "try saying 'Soothing Cream' with an Irish accent. It starts to sound like 'Suud-ing Cream', which eventually evolved into the name we know today: Sudocrem." The name was officially changed in 1950.
Product Details and Popularity
Sudocrem contains a water-repellent base, protective and moisturising agents, antibiotic and antifungal agents, and a mild anaesthetic. It is primarily used for skin ailments such as nappy rash and dermatitis. The formula has remained unchanged for 95 years, and the product is now sold in more than 50 countries worldwide.
Lavender Fragrance Revelation
Many users were also surprised to learn that the distinct smell of Sudocrem comes from lavender. One person commented: "Wait no. 3 kids in. I hate the smell of lavender, but I love the smell of Sudocrem. This… this doesn’t make sense?!" Another shared: "I’ve been using it on my irritated pregnancy stretch marks… not realising it had lavender in it… being allergic to lavender and wondering why I kept coming up in blisters."
