The difference is in hydration, absorption, and how different formulations make your skin feel.
Evgeniia Siiankovskaia / Getty Images
Ointment vs.
Cream
One of the main differences between ointments and creams is how much oil and water they contain.
Evgeniia Siiankovskaia / Getty Images
When choosing a product, read the ingredients list for allergies or hypersensitivity warnings.
When Should I Use Them?
Sometimes, your choice is determined by personal preference.
Creams disappear in the skin after they’re applied.Ointments typically cause the skin to look greasy or glossy.
How Do They Feel on the Skin?
Creams feel light on the skin and are easy to apply and remove.
How Do They Work?
Creams are less occlusive than ointments.
They are still frequently used as moisturizers but can also be used for weepy or oozy skin conditions likepsoriasis.
Which Absorbs Best?
Traditionally, ointments were thought to absorb into the skin the best.
People sometimes prefer creams because they may be a bit less messy.
Which Delivers the Most Moisture?
Ointments are better moisturizers than creams.This is because they are more occlusive and prevent water from leaving the skin.
Other Skin Product Types
Cream vs.
Lotion
Though they’re similar, some significant differences exist between creams and lotions.
While creams are classified as semisolid, lotions are liquids.This means they’re thinner and able to be poured.
Modern balms contain oils likearganor jojoba oil and waxeslike beeswax, which give them a waxy appearance.
Because they are very occlusive,balms can create a solid barrier to lock in moisture.
But unlike ointments, they don’t leave the skin sticky or greasy.
Because of this, small amounts of serums act quickly and can dramatically affect the skin’s appearance.
Ointments lock moisture in the skin, which is excellent for dry skin conditions like eczema.
Creams can be used anywhere on the body.
They contain equal parts oil and water, providing moisture but not as much as ointments.
Besides their use as moisturizers, creams are often used for conditions like yeast infections and vaginal dryness.
Sunscreens, lice treatments, and poison ivy remedies come in lotion form.
Other topical dosage forms include gels, balms, and serums.
Gels can be used to release medicine through the skin gradually.
Balms are ideal for dry, rough skin like the lips.
Serums are commonly used cosmetically to deliver highly concentrated ingredients.
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