What is the difference between ointments creams and lotions

Ointments have 80 percent oil and 20 percent water. Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view.

It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs. What's the difference between lotions, creams and ointments? Mehmet Oz, MD. Cardiology Cardiovascular Disease. Typically a patient favorite, creams are useful when it might not be cosmetically appealing or realistic to use an ointment, such as on the face or under clothes, which might cause them to get ruined. However, they wash off easily and contain both preservatives and alcohol with can burn on allergic or cracked skin.

Lotions are similar to creams, but they are lighter and less thick. Their absorption is very fast. 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. Also, creams are said to have low risks of irritation. You can safely use it if you have sensitive skin. Ointments are greasier; hence are ideal to treat dry skin conditions, such as psoriasis. Since ointments contain higher concentration of oil, they can clog your pores and make your skin prone to irritation. In general, creams are better than ointments for treating oozing or wet skin conditions like eczema.

Creams evaporate much quickly than ointments and thus heals such conditions faster. Ointments are thicker. They are ideal to treat dry and scaly skin conditions. Creams and ointments can be either medicinal or cosmetic. However, the primary difference between the two is the ratio between oil and water. While creams are mostly water-based, ointments are oil-based.

Before you decide on a cream or ointment, know more about your skin condition. If you are still not sure, consult a dermatologist for advice. Begin By Knowing Your Skin. This offer is only valid till 30th November Image: Shutterstock. What Are Creams And Ointments? What's the Difference Between Cream and Ointment? Absorption Creams have better absorption rates as compared to ointments. Consistency Creams tend to have lighter texture and consistency.

Appearance Creams are usually light weight with a smooth texture. Proportion Of Oil Creams contain contain less oil than water, making it easy for absorption. Preadability Creams have a watery base, so they can be applied on larger areas of your skin. Stability On The Skin Creams tend to get absorbed by your skin faster and are less stable. Uses Creams are moderate in moisturizing.

Healing Power In general, creams are better than ointments for treating oozing or wet skin conditions like eczema.