Germolene Antiseptic cream is used to treat minor cuts and grazes, minor burns, scalds, blisters, sore and rough skin, washday hands, sunburn or stiff aching muscles. The ointment contains four active substances. Phenol and octafonium chloride have antiseptic properties for the disinfection of skin, wounds and burns. Phenol also has a local anaesthetic action for the relief of pain. Methyl salicylate relieves inflammation and pain. Zinc oxide is a mild astringent (helps to reduce bleeding). The ointment base helps soften the skin and soothe irritation.