Why are ointments better than creams

Creams are a mixture of roughly half water and half oil. They spread easily, are well absorbed, and wash off with water. Creams are usually packaged in a tub or tube since they are too thick to be dispensed in a pump like a lotion. The oil component is made from hydrocarbons, such as mineral oil or petroleum jelly. When is it best to use a cream? In general, people prefer using creams to ointments since they are less sticky and heavy on the skin.

Since the viscosity thickness of creams is less than that of ointments, they also work better for covering large areas of skin. When is it best to use an ointment? Ointments are best used on dry skin. Thus, they are able to keep the skin moist for longer periods of time.

Ointments also promote more complete absorption of the active ingredient or medication. Because of preservatives used in creams, ointments are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Topical steroids — Corticosteroids are the most commonly used topical medication. Most over-the-counter body moisturizers are lotions but they are terrible because they absorb quickly and evaporate just as quickly. The skin is then left just as dry as before. They do not form the emollient barrier that makes an ointment so effective.

So, what treatment is right for you? It depends on the skin condition, but as a general rule choose something in a tub, not a pump. Video link. Close X. Click to scroll back to top of the page Back to top. Posted June 1, pm. Updated June 1, pm. Smaller font Descrease article font size - A. Share this item on Facebook facebook Share this item via WhatsApp whatsapp Share this item on Twitter twitter Send this page to someone via email email Share this item on Pinterest pinterest Share this item on LinkedIn linkedin Share this item on Reddit reddit Copy article link Copy link.

Story continues below advertisement. The main difference between a lotion and a cream is the water content, which also dictates the thickness. Lotions contain more water than creams and are, therefore, thinner. They are typically formulated with lightweight ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which is hydrating and skin-plumping without leaving a residue or clogging pores, resulting in more frequent applications.

Uses: Lotion is best for people with normal to oily skin and those who live in warm, humid climates. Some lotions are oil-free.

Lighter moisturizing ingredients, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, are used instead. These can be a good choice if you have acne-prone skin.

Tip: Because they contain more water, lotions require more preservatives. If your lotion irritates your skin, it could be the preservative.