Ointments may work well for extremely dry skin because their thick, oil-based formulas help trap moisture. If you’re selecting an over-the-counter (OTC) product, consider the key benefits and differences of each type of product. Extremely dry skin may also benefit from moisturizers in ointment form for the same reason.įor a prescription topical medication, a healthcare professional will typically determine whether you might benefit most from an ointment or cream. They remain on your skin’s surface for a longer period of time, which helps ensure maximum product absorption. You’ll typically find medications, such as antibiotics for infections or corticosteroids for psoriasis, in ointment form. Those intended for small areas, in other words, will likely come in a tube rather than a jar. The product’s container generally depends on the body surface area the product is intended for. Treatment creams, such as hydrocortisone for bug bites and rashes, often come in tubes. Daily moisturizing creams are typically sold in jars. Like creams, ointments hold their shape well. An older 2005 study that obtained scientifically based, systematic classifications for topical drugs described creams as opaque and viscous. Because of their oil-to-water ratio, creams tend to be thick enough to maintain their shape whether squeezed from a tube or scooped from a jar. They tend to have a greasy or even sticky feel. These have a thicker consistency than creams, but may spread a little farther across your skin. These have a smooth texture with a thicker consistency than lotions, which tend to be runnier. Common ingredients found in ointments include mineral oil and petroleum. ![]() They stay on top of your skin rather than being absorbed right away, which offers more protection against moisture loss and the elements, like cold or dry air. Of all skin products, ointments contain the most oil. Their oil content also means they stay on your skin’s surface to help protect against moisture loss, which makes them ideal for treating dry skin, rashes, or skin lesions. Due to their high water content, creams are easily absorbed, so they can cover large areas of skin. ![]() While a cream has equal parts oil and water, ointments contain about 80 percent oil.Ī few other differences include: Absorption The primary difference between the two lies in the ratio between oil and water. What’s the difference between cream and ointment?īoth creams and ointments can have medicinal or cosmetic uses.
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