Moisturisers: Creams vs Ointments vs Lotions
Australia’s dry weather may dehydrate your skin leading to mild discomfort and potentially other complications. Healthy skin acts as a natural barrier and having dry skin can compromise that barrier, thus offering less protection. As a result, it may lead to skin infections or even activation of your eczema if you’re prone to develop this condition.¹ The use of moisturisers will assist in retaining the water in your skin and preventing further loss of moisture; thereby maintaining the integrity of your skin. Moisturisers normally comes in either the form of a cream, ointment or a lotion and each form of moisturiser has its place in therapy.
Creams have cooling and lubricating effects; and are designed for moist or dry skin. This is often preferred by patients because its washable and non-greasy; however the preservatives may lead to skin irritation.²
Ointments are occlusive and lubricating; which helps in patients with dry or scaly skin. It is extremely moisturising; however it’s greasy and difficult to wash off.²
Lotions are mildly moisturising and have a cooling effect. This form of moisturiser is normally used in hair bearing areas of the body for ease of application or if the patient chooses to have a lightly moisturising sensation on the skin.²
In summary, lotions and creams are used for mild to moderate dry skin; whereas ointments are usually introduced when the skin is extremely dry or scaly. In saying that, patient preferences ld also be taken into consideration when choosing the appropriate form of moisturiser.
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References
1. Mayo Clinic. Dry Skin [Internet]. Mayo Clinic [updated 2016 Oct 27; cited 2018 Mar 23]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/symptoms-causes/syc-20353885
2. Australian Medicines Handbook. Comparison of Vehicles [Internet]. Australian Medicines Handbook [updated 2018 Jan; cited 2018 Mar 23]. Available from: https://amhonline.amh.net.au/chapters/dermatological-drugs/tables/vehicles-table
Published by Nick Ng
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