Which is better absorbed, cream or ointment? Difference between cream and gel

For many people who prefer cosmetics for facial or body skin care, the question arises: “what better ointment or gel?

In stores today it is very easy to get confused, and often the consultant himself cannot tell you what to give preference to.

Let's conduct an investigation and find out what similarities and differences between gel and ointment.

The basis of ointments is a mixture of oils and water.

Such creams are divided into two types:

• Oil in water;
• Water in oil.

In the first case, the fat particles are broken down in 75% water, and in the second case, 65% of the fatty medium contains microscopic drops of water.

The ointments contain emulsifiers that envelop the mixture and prevent the emulsion particles from mixing with each other.

Often the composition of cosmetic ointments consists of animal and vegetable fats.

For example, olive oil, jojoba, almond, spermaceti, lanolin.

This composition characterizes more expensive professional cosmetics. But there are also unscrupulous manufacturers who add synthetic mineral oils to the ointment - they tighten the skin of the face or body and do not allow it to breathe.

Such remedies often cause allergic reaction and various types of rashes.

1. Gel is cosmetic product, consisting of 75-85% water, as well as the addition of pectin, gelatin, glycerin, starch, gum arabic and other microparticles with moisture-holding ability.

The gel does not contain vegetable or animal fats or oils; it has a transparent consistency and is easily absorbed into the skin.

But this is not all the advantages of gels over ointments, because they do not leave a greasy film after use, have good moisturizing properties and are characterized by a protective and nourishing effect.

These advantages make it possible to use cosmetic products in the form of gels for people with problem skin.

1. Creams and ointments have a thicker and denser consistency, but also nourish the skin and are characterized beneficial properties. It is ideal to use cosmetic ointments for mature and aging skin, as well as dry skin.

Gels are best used to relieve swelling around the eyes, wrinkles, and acne-prone skin.

It is preferable to use cosmetic gels during the day, and ointments at night.

Gels have anti-inflammatory, soothing and tonic properties, so the day is optimal time days for applying this type of product.

The active ingredients of ointments are most effective at night, when a person is not in contact with sunlight and other irritants.

So, having found out how is ointment different from gel?, you can safely go shopping for a cosmetic product that can solve your skin problem.

If you want to get rid of acne, then feel free to give preference to gels, and if you suffer from dry skin, buy ointment.

Pharmaceutical products are no exception when choosing ointments and gels.

People also face questions: “which is better?”, “what to give preference to?”, “what are the main differences and similarities between gel and ointment?”

The main drugs that raise doubts about whether to give preference to gel or ointment are Chondroxide, Viferon and Traumeel.

For example, it differs from ointment in that it is better retained on the mucous membranes, while forming a drying film.

Thus, it does not allow bacteria, infections and all kinds of viruses to penetrate the area where the product is applied. On the contrary, ointment moisturizes the skin, and the choice here depends on the condition of the mucous membrane of the ears and nose.

Viferon is used for preventive purposes against colds.

The pharmaceutical product Traumeel is intended to relieve pain in joints and muscles; it is used for arthritis, inflammation and injuries.

Traumeel gel characterized by its main advantage over ointment - it does not leave greasy stains and penetrates deeper into the skin.

However, the consistency of the ointment is not very greasy and is absorbed well, so there are no special differences here.

Chondroxide gel It does not require rubbing and is excellent for relieving joint pain and skin damage. It also does not stain clothes, does not leave greasy stains or marks, is well absorbed, and has analgesic properties.

The ointments from this company are more oily, so their use would be prudent during massage and therapy.

Both gel and ointment have the same shelf life, approximately 3 years. Therefore, the patient’s choice should be based only on the purpose, purpose of use and condition of the body.

As for the price, the gel may slightly exceed the cost of the ointment, but not significantly. Therefore, you should not be afraid of a significant blow to your wallet.

Be guided common sense when choosing cosmetics and pharmaceutical products, because the condition of your skin, general well-being and health depend on it. Don't be fooled by price. Based on the properties and characteristics of ointments and gels.

Often, when choosing a drug for external use, we are faced with various forms this medicine - cream, ointment, gel, lotion, liniment, suspension, emulsion, paste. What is the fundamental difference between them? Usually this question baffles us. In this material we will try to give brief description each dosage form and recommendations for their use. This will help you get the most out of the money you spend on your medicine.

Cream basically contains oils or water. Therefore, the cream is easily and quickly absorbed into the skin, but penetrates shallowly. The cream should be applied to the skin for “wet” lesions, that is, when there is any discharge on the surface. Usually, after just a few minutes of application, the cream does not leave any marks and does not stain clothes. Therefore, it is recommended to use the cream in the morning or afternoon. After application, you can wear any clothes and do your planned activities.

Ointment– dosage form with a fatty base, which determines its main properties. The ointment has a more viscous concentration, is absorbed more slowly and lasts longer. Unlike cream, ointment penetrates deeper into the thickness of the skin. Typically, the ointment is used for “dry” diseases and for thickening (infiltration) of the skin. Ointments are applied under a bandage, which further increases the depth of penetration and duration therapeutic effect. The fatty base of the ointment is usually not completely absorbed into the skin and can stain clothes. Therefore, ointments are usually recommended to be applied at night. And while you sleep, the active component of the drug fulfills its therapeutic purpose.

Gel is a viscous dosage form. The properties of the gel are more similar to cream. The only difference is that the gel contains neither fats nor oils. The gel has a pH close to the pH of the skin, distributes evenly on the applied surface, is quickly absorbed, and does not clog pores (unlike ointment). Some medications in gel form have higher therapeutic activity than in the form of ointments or creams.

Lotion – liquid dosage form for external use in the form of an aqueous-alcohol solution. Often used to treat the scalp, since the lotion easily reaches the skin and does not settle on the hair during large quantities. Also, lotions are often equipped with spray nozzles, which makes it easier to apply the drug to the skin.

Liniment – a dosage form that is an intermediate link between cream and ointment. The composition of liniment includes fats and oils in varying proportions. Depending on the predominant component, liniment acquires the properties of an ointment or cream. Characteristic feature liniment is that it begins to melt at body temperature.

Suspension – liquid form, which is one or more solid medicinal substances dissolved in a liquid (water, glycerin, liquid oil, etc.). Typically, such medications are absorbed at an average rate and may leave marks on the skin or clothing. Suspensions are used not only externally. They are also taken orally or injected.

Emulsion is a mixture of two liquid medicinal substances. One of them is the base (dispersed medium), the other is the dispersed phase. Typically, during storage, both substances separate in the bottle and form two layers. Therefore, the emulsion must be shaken and mixed before use. Typically, emulsions are quickly absorbed and leave no residue on the skin.

Pasta – This is an ointment of dense consistency, the content of powdery substances in which exceeds 20%. Therefore, it has the appearance of a paste and has a long-lasting effect on the skin. Usually has a drying effect.

Choose a medicine based on the nature of the disease you have and the characteristics of each dosage form. So you're in as soon as possible reach maximum effect from treatment.

What is the difference between cream and gel and what is better to buy, ointment or paste? Let's try to figure this out.

Cream and ointment

Any skin product consists of a base and an active substance. The difference between a cream and an ointment is precisely in the base, and the medicinal active substance is usually the same.

Here are the main differences between cream and ointment:

• The basis for ointments are various fat-like substances (lipids, waxes, petroleum jelly, lanolin), and any cream is an emulsion of water in oil or oil in water.
• The consistency of the ointment is much denser, it is much greasier than the cream.
• The ointment, unlike the cream, does not contain water at all.

The cream is much lighter and better absorbed by the skin

Differences in physical properties These drugs determine their effect on the human body:

• The ointment forms a film on the surface of the skin, which has a greenhouse effect. Thanks to this, the active substances of the ointment enter the bloodstream and have a systemic effect on the body.
• The medicinal substance of the cream has only a local effect.
• The vast majority of ointments are medicinal products, and creams are cosmetic.

You can also add that creams are much lighter, so they are absorbed faster. You can buy the cream at any cosmetic store, but the ointment only at the pharmacy.

Gel and cream

The difference between cream and gel is chemical composition of these funds, which determines their properties:

• Gel is a substance that is 80% water, and cream is an emulsion of water and oil.
• The gels have a high viscosity, do not contain fats and oils at all, so they do not leave on the skin or clothes. greasy marks.
• Cream is an opaque substance, but gels are different high degree transparency.
• Most gels, unlike creams, have a pH close to the pH of the skin.
• It is better to apply the cream to the skin in the evening; the gel can be used at any convenient time.

Water makes up up to 80% of the gel composition

Cream and emulsion

The main difference between cream and emulsion is their consistency. In essence, an emulsion is a regular cream that has a liquid consistency. This designation can be called not very correct, because any cream is an emulsion.

Most cosmetic and medicinal creams are an emulsion of water in oil, which is why they have such a thick and greasy structure. They penetrate the skin easily, but leave greasy marks on it. An emulsion is a solution of oil in water, which makes its texture light. It contains very few lipids, so it does not create the feeling of a greasy film on the skin.

Pomegranate emulsion for stretch marks

Fluid and cream

Fluid is cosmetic product, which differs from cream in its semi-liquid consistency and minimum quantity oils and fats.

Of the entire line of cosmetics, fluids have the lightest texture and contain the least amount of oils. The size of dispersed fluid particles is much smaller than in a regular cream.

Even a “neglected” fungus can be cured at home. Just remember to apply once a day.

The fluids have the least amount of oils in the composition and have the lightest texture

The fluids are great for oily and combination skin, and the cream is an ideal product for dry skin.

The polymers that make up the fluid remove excess secretions from the skin sebaceous glands, giving it a natural matte finish.

Serum and cream

The main difference between serum and cream is not the base, but the active component.

A regular cream contains a small amount of active substance, usually a few percent. The concentration of active substances in the serum is ten times higher than that of the cream. Typically these are vitamins (A, B and E), antioxidants, trace elements and various organic acids. Sometimes serums are also called concentrates.

Unlike cream, serums have a liquid consistency, which is lighter even than a fluid. These are emulsions created on a fat or water basis.

Moisturizing body serum against stretch marks

Serums are especially popular among middle-aged and older people. Typically these products are used to treat a specific skin problem. The serum is perfect for tightening the skin and rejuvenating it.

Serums contain special compounds that increase skin permeability, facilitating the penetration of the main active substances into it. They are also called “conductor substances”. Serums are often applied “under cream”.

Another difference between cream and serum is the cost of the latter. This product definitely cannot be called cheap.

Pastes and ointments

Paste differs from ointment in that it contains a large amount of powdery substances. Thanks to this, the pastes have a thicker consistency. The amount of powdery substances in the paste varies, but it is always not lower than 25% and not higher than 65%. A typical example of this remedy is the familiar toothpaste, which contains a large amount of powder, which helps to remove plaque more effectively.

Due to their paste composition, their effect is more intense and lasting. Pastes have drying and adsorbing properties, which make them possible to use as a remedy against inflammation.

Many popular drugs that exist today are available in different forms:

Bepanten is a drug produced in two forms: ointment and cream. Ointment and cream contain one active substance - dexpanthenol, in both forms its concentration is the same and amounts to 5%. The main difference is the consistency of these medicinal products: the cream is lighter, and the ointment has a thick consistency and has a more intense effect. The ointment contains 50 grams of almond oil and 250 mg of lanolin; these substances perfectly moisturize the skin. The ointment also contains beeswax.

Akriderm - available in the form of ointment and cream, used for skin inflammation and allergies. The main active substance of both ointment and cream is betamethasone. Part various types This product contains gentamicin, which is effective in bacterial infections, clotrimazole, which copes well with fungal infections, and salicylic acid. The cream is more suitable for oily skin, and the ointment is for dry. Read more about the drug Akriderm.

Akriderm - ointment for external use

Clotrimazole is used for fungal pathologies of the skin and has two forms: cream and ointment. The active substance is clotrimazole, both forms contain the same amount: 0.01 g per 1 g of product. The ointment is thicker and greasy, more suitable for dry skin; it is better to apply cream to wet areas. Read more about the drug Clotrimazole.

Triderm is a very popular drug that is used to treat inflammatory and fungal diseases. Available in the form of ointment and cream. The composition of the active substances in both forms of the drug is the same, only the base differs. The ointment penetrates deeper and faster, which is why it is used for severe forms of diseases. The cream contains alcohols, which are effective for weeping dermatitis, but they can cause allergies.

What is the difference between cream and ointment?

You've probably encountered such a situation at a pharmacy when you came to buy a product and they asked you what cream or ointment they should sell you. You probably don't know if they are the same or not. And if different, then what is their difference? This is what I want to talk about in my article.

Let's talk in more detail about both means.

It mainly uses a very oily base. It has little or no water content. It contains substances such as fats, petroleum jelly or lanolin. The effect of the ointment is to create a greenhouse effect by creating a film on the skin. Because of which medicine can penetrate deep into tissue. And after passing through the skin, it even reaches the bloodstream. Doctors call the effect of the ointment systemic.

The base of the cream resembles an emulsion. It is practically non-greasy and lighter. It does not create any film on the skin. And the healing substance does not penetrate inside for a long time, much less into your blood. So the cream works almost only on the surface of your skin. Therefore, its effect is called local or local. It also contains a large amount of water. And therefore creams can have a moisturizing and cooling effect. If you smear yourself with cream, there is a chance that it will appear on your clothes in the form of stains.

From the above we can conclude that the cream is able to help your skin on the surface, and the ointment penetrates more deeply. That is, the cream is used mainly against burns and for moisturizing. The ointment can be used to relieve muscle pain.

What is the difference between ointment and cream?

Every person, regardless of gender, age or type of activity, uses skin and body care products. The most common forms of cosmetics and medicines are ointments and creams. Let's figure out how they differ from each other.

Characteristics of the cream

The cream is characterized by a light texture. It is quickly absorbed and does not leave a greasy residue, while providing a deep level of hydration in the lower layers of the epidermis. This happens due to the presence of water in the base.

When applied, the product does not create a film on the skin, as a result of which the epidermis constantly breathes. It also does not leave greasy stains, so you don’t have to worry about stained clothes. Most creams are light nice smell, which leaves virtually no trail.

Creams are used as additional remedy skin care, as they have the following properties:

• Relieve irritation
• Have a calming effect on the skin
• Moisturizes and nourishes the epidermis
• Activates intracellular processes
• Has a calming effect
• Heals skin lesions– abrasions, bruises, scratches
• Anti-aging creams enhance collagen production
• Children's - moisturize and protect delicate skin

The highest quality creams are sold in glass jars. It is not advisable to purchase them in plastic containers, since some components contained in the composition may react with the tube material.

Characteristics of the ointment

All ointments are usually based on fatty components. There is practically no water in the base. The main components of the ointment are lanolin, silicone or fats of animal and plant origin (mink, badger, almond oil, sea buckthorn).

It follows that ointment bases are divided into several types:

The purpose of the ointment is to create a film on the surface of the skin and provide a greenhouse effect.

Thanks to fats, the components penetrate through the pores deep into the tissues and have a therapeutic effect:

• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Regenerating
• Warming
• Painkiller

Due to their oily consistency, ointments can leave marks on clothing, so use them better at home. Some treatments require a compress or bandage. Ointment is an exclusively medicinal product that can only be purchased at a pharmacy.

All representatives of pharmacological groups exist in ointment form:

The therapeutic effect of using the ointment depends on many factors:

• Product storage conditions (temperature, humidity, etc.)
• Characteristics of the components contained in the composition
• Concentration of active substances (with a higher percentage of active ingredients, the ointment is more effective)
• Method of application (for example, for warming, you can additionally apply a bandage or compress, which will enhance the greenhouse effect and the effect of the product)
• Scope of application (in soft fabrics drug molecules penetrate much faster than into bone-cartilaginous tissues)
• Duration of use (it takes time for the components to seep through the pores of the skin and get into the painful area. That is, the ointment will not work the first time)
• The condition of the skin and the degree of the disease for which the ointment is used (for example, ointment for varicose veins can help initial stage appearance vascular network, but if the option is running, it will no longer save)

Similarities between ointment and cream

1. Ointment and cream are products for external use.
2. They can be used to heal skin lesions.
3. The active substances in these two forms may be the same, but the bases are always different.

Differences between ointment and cream

In conclusion, drawing conclusions, we can note the distinctive features between cream and ointment:

1. Base: all creams contain water in the base, which gives lightness to the structure of the product. Ointments are based on fats that nourish the skin and transport other components into the deep layers of the epidermis.
2. According to the purpose of the cream, a distinction is made between medicinal and cosmetic, while the ointment is exclusively a medicinal product.
3. The cream creates a cooling effect and does not clog skin pores. Ointment, on the contrary, creates a film and provides a greenhouse effect.
4. The cream acts exclusively on the skin, and the ointment molecules penetrate the blood, providing a therapeutic effect.
5. The cream is quickly and completely absorbed, the ointment leaves greasy marks on the skin.

In conclusion, I would like to note that it is impossible to say for sure which of these two forms is better and more effective. It all depends on the method of application and the problem that needs to be eliminated.

How does a balm (for body, face) differ from a cream?

1.What is a balm for the body or face.

The skin needs hydration, but easy care not always enough. Therefore, the balm is the lifesaver that will moisturize the skin. The balm has a lighter structure than the cream. It is designed to penetrate the pores of the skin, moisturize and nourish. The cream most often forms a protective film and has a denser, greasy structure.

Essentially, the balm is a light emulsion, a more delicate consistency and its composition is filled with various essential additives and herbal extracts. The balm does not require daily use (like a cream), but is necessary in emergency cases (when the skin needs to be put in order, when it is dry and looks tired). Some balms are designed to restore cellular structure from the inside.

It becomes a necessary ritual every day and is designed to protect the skin.

As mentioned above, but more often it has a denser consistency. You can call the cream the main care product, and the balm an additional one.

3.What types of creams are there?

□ Light cream that acts as a moisturizer. Apply under makeup. Contains components that retain moisture inside skin cells. The most useful and common components.

• Hylauronic acid.
• Milk cyst.
• Aloe extract.
• Seaweed extract.
• Glycerol.

This is far from full list components. This cream is not suitable for frosty weather.

□ Nutritious cream. It includes mala, which makes its consistency thicker, forms a protective film on the skin and protects it from bad weather.

And also for facial skin:

• Day and night.
• Sun protection.
• Bleaching.
• For sensitive skin.
• Toning.

And we can also find this on store shelves. You can do it yourself. An approximate course of action is as follows:

• We select the grass for ourselves. Let it be a linden tree. Fill the grass with nut oil (for example). Place the mixture in a water bath.
• Tomim future cream 2 hours.
• We choose a jar for the cream, put wax and prepared strained oil there.
• We also place this mixture in a water bath for 10 minutes. We're filming.
• Add a couple of drops of essential oil. Stir and wait for it to harden.

The cream should be stored at room temperature about six months.

What to choose - cream or balm? This has not been a question for me for a long time.

I don't remember when it started. My love for thick, dense textures. To the way they melt upon contact with the skin. Similar to butter. Towards a huge variety warm shades yellow - from pale milky to deep egg yolk color. To wonderful natural smells - from light and sweet to complex and tart with bitterness. Wherever I apply a portion of this melting luxury - on the face, body, hands, feet - every time three of the five senses react to the contact with pleasant stimulation.

Neither creams nor lotions have ever given me such a range of sensations. If the sense of smell perceived the smell of some product positively, then for touch and vision the perception became a purely physiological process of irritation of receptors, without transmitting pleasure signals to the brain.

Here you can leave the lyrics and move on to the chemical field to see what the difference is between products such as cream and balm. The most important difference here is the only ingredient that is present in the cream and which can never be found in the balm. Water. And here’s the paradox: what’s bad about water, because water is wonderful. We are made up of 70-80% water, depending on age. We drink water to keep our skin in good condition. And if your skin care product has water in it, so much the better, right? It's like that. However, there is a nuance, and a very significant one.

As soon as water appears in the composition of a cosmetic product, there is immediately a need to add preservatives and other additives to it, which can hardly be called beneficial for the skin. This is done in order to avoid the growth of bacteria, since if cosmetic product has a very small amount of water, then it must be “preserved” in some way. Bacteria need water to grow, and most cosmetics contain enough high levels waters in which bacteria can easily multiply. Insurance companies that insure cosmetics manufacturers understand this, and regulators understand this too. Thus, of two evils - bacteria and preservatives - the choice is always made in favor of preservatives.

Go ahead. In creams and lotions, water accounts for 70 percent or more. As has already become clear, emulsifiers/thickeners and preservatives are necessarily added to water. Mathematically, it turns out that there is very little space left in the cream for active ingredients - this is 10-15%. What is the composition of the balm? Due to the complete absence of water, there is no need to add preservatives. And it turns out that the composition of the balm is the same 10-15% of active ingredients, only here they are 100%. Antioxidant-rich oils, plant extracts, healing essential oils - nothing extra, just useful composition and concentrated formula to the best way cope with the task of protecting, moisturizing and healing the skin. It is not surprising that more and more companies are gradually starting to include such a cosmetic product as balm in their lines.

I've met some manufacturers household chemicals, which produce only dry washing powders, they don't have liquid products. They position themselves as companies with an honest attitude towards consumers. They say they don't want to force customers to pay for water, which is found in large quantities in liquid products for washing. I like this approach, it's common sense. So it’s the same with cosmetics, and in the case of cream/lotion we're talking about not only the presence of a large percentage of water in the composition, but also a less natural and effective formula.

So I will always prefer a balm to a cream, not only because the balm pleasantly excites my senses, but also because as a cosmetic product, the balm makes sense much more and is more beneficial for health. Unlike, for example, a sandwich with processed cheese and doctor’s sausage, which, no doubt, is tasty and also somewhat pleasing to the eye, but does not provide any benefit to the body. And the fact that the choice of balms today is only increasing, new brands and products are appearing, makes the anticipation of getting to know each “balsamic” new product a particularly pleasant anticipation. Perhaps mine next choice There will be Skin Savoir from One Love Organics.

Balms: how do they differ from creams, and how to use them correctly?

Daily skin care for face and neck – the most important condition youth and beauty, which every woman must observe. Soft skin face needs regular nutrition to maintain smoothness, firmness, tone and healthy color. It must be protected from temperature changes, sharp winds and direct sunlight.

Most often for this daily care creams are used. However, there is another interesting alternative - face balms. What is their feature?

Facial balm - origin story

Balms and oils for the face have traditionally been used in Rus' since pagan times. Russian herbalists knew very well about the healing powers contained in forest and steppe plants. From generation to generation, their families passed down recipes for wonderful balms that could preserve and increase feminine beauty. Oil mixtures and balms were made on the basis of vegetable oils beneficial for the skin, the skin-care properties of which were enhanced by the addition of extracts of medicinal herbs, berries and fruits.

And of course, when creating balms, our ancestors did without such components as synthetic emulsifiers, perfume compositions and preservatives. However, it is known that their cosmetic creations could be stored for quite some time. long period time. Balms and ointments were made in summer and autumn, when the herbs gained their healing power, and were used all year. How did they manage to maintain their properties for so long?

Modern manufacturers natural cosmetics answered this question by taking over the baton of their predecessors and analyzing their recipes.

Balm and face cream - composition features

Secret long-term storage balms consists of complete absence they contain water, the main moisturizing component that all creams necessarily contain.

It would seem that this big drawback, because we are used to simultaneously nourishing and moisturizing the skin with daily care. However, oddly enough, water in cream is the main enemy of its naturalness, since it serves as a favorable environment for the proliferation of various harmful bacteria. The proliferation of bacteria causes the cream to quickly deteriorate. To extend the shelf life of creams, cosmetics manufacturers are forced to add preservatives to them. In addition, the presence of water makes it necessary to add emulsifiers to give the cream its usual uniform consistency. In the case of natural cosmetics, these are, of course, organic ingredients, but their cost is quite high, which affects the price of creams.

Since there is no water in face balms, pathogenic microflora do not multiply in them, which means there is no need to destroy it with the help of a preservative. Emulsifiers are also unnecessary here. Therefore, face balms consist exclusively of useful ingredients, the tasks of which are to nourish and protect the skin; they do not contain ballast substances.

Nutritious base oils in the composition of balms, such as cedar, peach, sea buckthorn, shea, they perfectly care for the face and neck, saturating it essential vitamins and microelements. Beeswax protects against the effects of cold, temperature changes and wind, and essential oils disinfect and restore damaged epidermal cells.

Does this mean that using balms for daily care excludes skin hydration? Of course not! But it’s not enough to just choose and buy the right face balm, you need to learn how to use it. It is easy to add a moisturizing component to the balm - and it is better to do this immediately before applying the product to the skin.

Facial balm and oil - methods of use

There are two ways to combine the application of balm with moisturizing the skin:

1. You can spray thermal water or a suitable hydrosol on your face and neck, and then apply the balm to damp skin, after lightly rubbing it in your hands.
2. Take a small amount of balm from the jar, warm it slightly in your hands, add a little thermal water or hydrolate and rub between your palms. Apply the resulting cream-like product to the face and neck with light massage movements.

Depending on the amount of water or hydrosol, you can get a lighter or denser consistency of the balm. It can change depending on the condition of the skin, time of day or weather outside. Thus, facial care with the help of balm can be made completely individual.

Face balms, which you can buy in our store

Different manufacturers of natural cosmetics develop their own recipes for creams and balms, and each has its own interesting features.

The creators of hand-made cosmetics Makosh use high-quality oils in their creams and balms: grape seed, argan, shea and cedar, as well as extracts and extracts medicinal plants, bee honey and other healing ingredients. This combination of ingredients is useful for skin of any type, provides excellent nutrition and protection, including from UV rays.

A feature of the recipe for creams and balms of the Mirolada brand is cedar resin in combination with the composition essential oils, having the most pronounced beneficial effects on the skin.

The manufacturer LadoYar bases its balms and ointments on Cedar oil, obtained by cold pressing on a wooden press. This oil preserves everything nutrients and conducts them deep into the cells of the epidermis.

Cream masks and cream ointments from the Ave Apis brand have an interesting composition that uses olive oil, beeswax, royal jelly, mumiyo. All of them have an excellent healing effect, soften the skin well and smooth out its texture.

The face balm will be great natural remedy care at any age and for any skin type.

The article was prepared by the Katena project team.

Copying is permitted only if there is an active link to this project.

What is better ointment or cream?

Cream or ointment? How to choose the right form of medication.

Often, when choosing a drug for external use, we are faced with various forms of this medicine - cream, ointment, gel, lotion, liniment, suspension, emulsion, paste. What is the fundamental difference between them? Usually this question baffles us. In this material we will try to give a brief description of each dosage form and recommendations for their use. This will help you get the most out of the money you spend on your medicine.

The cream basically contains oils or water. Therefore, the cream is easily and quickly absorbed into the skin, but penetrates shallowly. The cream should be applied to the skin for “wet” lesions, that is, when there is any discharge on the surface. Usually, after just a few minutes of application, the cream does not leave any marks and does not stain clothes. Therefore, it is recommended to use the cream in the morning or afternoon. After application, you can wear any clothes and do your planned activities.

Ointment is a dosage form with a fatty base, which determines its main properties. The ointment has a more viscous concentration, is absorbed more slowly and lasts longer. Unlike cream, ointment penetrates deeper into the thickness of the skin. Typically, the ointment is used for “dry” diseases and for thickening (infiltration) of the skin. Ointments are applied under a bandage, which further increases the depth of penetration and duration of the therapeutic effect. The fatty base of the ointment is usually not completely absorbed into the skin and can stain clothes. Therefore, ointments are usually recommended to be applied at night. And while you sleep, the active component of the drug fulfills its therapeutic purpose.

The gel is a viscous dosage form. The properties of the gel are more similar to cream. The only difference is that the gel contains neither fats nor oils. The gel has a pH close to the pH of the skin, distributes evenly on the applied surface, is quickly absorbed, and does not clog pores (unlike ointment). Some medications in gel form have higher therapeutic activity than in the form of ointments or creams.

Lotion is a liquid dosage form for external use in the form of an aqueous-alcohol solution. Often used to treat the scalp, since the lotion easily reaches the skin and does not settle on the hair in large quantities. Also, lotions are often equipped with spray nozzles, which makes it easier to apply the drug to the skin.

Liniment is a dosage form that is an intermediate link between cream and ointment. The composition of liniment includes fats and oils in varying proportions. Depending on the predominant component, liniment acquires the properties of an ointment or cream. A characteristic feature of liniment is that it begins to melt at body temperature.

Suspension is a liquid form, which represents one or more solid medicinal substances dissolved in a liquid (water, glycerin, liquid oil, etc.). Typically, such medications are absorbed at an average rate and may leave marks on the skin or clothing. Suspensions are used not only externally. They are also taken orally or injected.

An emulsion is a mixture of two liquid medicinal substances. One of them is the base (dispersed medium), the other is the dispersed phase. Typically, during storage, both substances separate in the bottle and form two layers. Therefore, the emulsion must be shaken and mixed before use. Typically, emulsions are quickly absorbed and leave no residue on the skin.

Paste is an ointment with a dense consistency, the content of powdery substances in which exceeds 20%. Therefore, it has the appearance of a paste and has a long-lasting effect on the skin. Usually has a drying effect.

Choose a medicine based on the nature of the disease you have and the characteristics of each dosage form. This way you will achieve the maximum effect of treatment in the shortest possible time.

What is the difference between Acyclovir ointment and cream?

Acyclovir is produced in forms such as ointment, cream and tablets. What is better Acyclovir cream or ointment? In the ointment the concentration of the active substance is 3% or 5%, and in the cream 5%. When treating diseases in the lip area, doctors often prescribe an ointment whose concentration is 5%. The ointment creates a reliable coating due to its oily consistency, so many believe that Acyclovir is better taken in the form of an ointment.

Ointments and creams for herpes infections are among the most effective medications that cure this disease. Herpes is a small, watery pimple that affects the surface of the lips. This acne is a viral disease, so it is necessary special approach for healing. If you don't start timely treatment, the disease has the ability to grow quickly.

Features of Acyclovir in the form of ointment and cream

When purchasing Acyclovir for external use, most patients have a number of questions. The puzzling thing is that the medication is available in several forms intended for external use. Even experienced pharmacists cannot always tell the supposed differences between them.

So what is the difference between Acyclovir cream and ointment? The main difference is that these dosage forms have different basis. The base is an inert substance from a pharmacological point of view. Accordingly, there is no therapeutic effect in the basis of the ointment or cream.

The basis of the ointment is fatty substances, which include Vaseline, lanolin and many others. Creams contain much less fatty components. For this reason, the cream is often called a soft ointment. Because of different composition creams and ointments, medications are absorbed differently and distributed over the surface.

A feature of ointments is their rather slow absorption, which allows them to remain on the skin for a long period. The distribution of the ointment occurs gradually. The cream is characterized by rapid distribution. When using creams, no greasy marks remain on the skin and clothes. Therefore, if pimples are on the body, it is better to take Acyclovir in the form of a cream.

When choosing between types of Acyclovir, you must initially adequately assess the affected area to which the drug is supposed to be applied. If you have open, inflamed lesions, using an ointment is best. This tool has the ability to simultaneously perform viral and moisturizing functions. Thanks to this, the affected elements are not damaged. If you have diseases that are located in areas of the body characterized by frequent contact with items of clothing, it is better to give preference to cream. The drug does not leave marks on clothes, so more suitable for treatment.

Features of Acyclovir tablets

Since the drug is also available in tablet form, you should know which is more suitable for you, tablets or Acyclovir ointment. The popularity of ointment in the treatment of herpes infections, compared to tablets, is explained by the following reasons:

• the ointment makes it possible to treat only the affected areas;
• there is no need to take the drug in a course;
• the ointment has the ability to relieve symptoms of the disease;
• when using external agents, the source of infection is covered with the drug, due to which the virus cells are not able to enter neighboring areas;
• using the drug in the form of an ointment allows you not to affect internal organs, since the influence of the active substance affects only the outer shell.

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What is the difference between ointment and cream?

Today in most pharmacies you can find everywhere medicinal preparations in the form of both gel and ointment. Both products are applied to the skin and have a certain effect on the body. But how do they differ? In what cases is it better to use a gel, and in what cases is it better to use an ointment? Let's try to figure it out.

Definition

Gel– free of fats and oils, soft and viscous in composition, dosage form on a hydrophilic (water) basis.

Ointment- a dosage form that is homogeneous in composition, fatty, viscous, soft to the touch, created for application to the skin, treatment of mucous membranes or wounds.

Comparison

Both gel and ointment consist of a base and active medicinal substances. But if ointments are produced primarily on a fat basis (vaseline, lanolin, vegetable oils, purified lard, grease (petroleum oils), naftalan), then the gels do not contain fats at all, they are created on the basis of water. The ointment is a colloidal solution when the particles of the active substance are not completely dissolved in the base. The gel consists of 70-80% water and thickeners, so the active ingredient in it, unlike ointments, is usually completely dissolved in the base. Due to the fact that the gel is absolutely non-greasy, it can be easily washed off the skin if necessary, and can also be quickly and easily washed off with water if it accidentally gets on clothes.

The gel, compared to the ointment, has an acidity (pH level) close to acidity healthy skin, therefore it is considered a more physiological remedy. In addition, when applied, the gel does not clog pores; due to its elastic, plastic, elastic consistency, it is easily, almost instantly distributed over skin. The ointment is gradually distributed and absorbed much more slowly. The gel has both drying and liquid-saturating properties (hydrophilic) to the skin. It usually quickly forms a thin film and adheres well to the skin and mucous membranes. The ointment most often has a moisturizing effect, but when a layer of this drug is applied to the skin and mucous membranes, some time must pass before it is completely absorbed. Otherwise, with a careless movement, a carefully applied layer of ointment can simply be “smeared” from the skin, and the drug will have to be applied again. Fatty ointment is good for flaky skin wounds, it will soften them perfectly, and gel is more suitable for wet wounds - it will dry them out and, thanks to the thin impenetrable film that forms, will protect them from the penetration of bacteria and viruses.

The ointment is more viscous than the gel. Due to the fact that the ointment is made on a fat basis, it can become unusable faster than a gel, because vegetable oils tend to go rancid in air.

Conclusions website

1. As basic basis the gel uses water, and the ointment uses specific (vegetable, animal, mineral and other) fats. Accordingly, the gel has a hydrophilic base, and the ointment has a hydrophobic base.
2. The gel spreads quickly, dries almost instantly and adheres well to the skin, forming a thin film without clogging the pores. The ointment is absorbed much more slowly and can clog pores.
3. Due to its fatty base, the ointment has a predominantly moisturizing and softening effect. It is applied mainly to flaky, irritated areas and perfectly heals the surface of the skin. The gel simultaneously dries and supplies moisture to the body. Therefore, it is good for wet wounds, as well as for joints and deep layers of skin.
4. A greasy ointment is more difficult to wash off from clothes than a completely non-greasy, easily washed off gel.

Every person, regardless of gender, age or type of activity, uses skin and body care products. The most common forms of cosmetics and medicines are ointments and creams. Let's figure out how they differ from each other.

Characteristics of the cream

Cream is a purely cosmetic skin care product with a creamy consistency. Typically opaque in color

The cream is characterized by a light texture. It is quickly absorbed and does not leave a greasy residue, while providing a deep level of hydration in the lower layers of the epidermis. This happens due to the presence of water in the base.

When applied, the product does not create a film on the skin, as a result of which the epidermis constantly breathes. It also does not leave greasy stains, so you don’t have to worry about stained clothes. Most creams have a light, pleasant scent that leaves virtually no trail.

Creams are used as an additional skin care product, as they have the following properties:

• Relieve irritation
• Have a calming effect on the skin
• Moisturizes and nourishes the epidermis
• Activates intracellular processes
• Has a calming effect
• Heals skin damage - abrasions, bruises, scratches
• Anti-aging creams enhance collagen production
• Children's - moisturize and protect delicate skin

The highest quality creams are sold in glass jars. It is not advisable to purchase them in plastic containers, since some components contained in the composition may react with the tube material.

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Characteristics of the ointment

An ointment is a medicinal form of a drug, created to affect the problem through the pores of the skin

All ointments are usually based on fatty components. There is practically no water in the base. The main components of the ointment are lanolin, silicone or fats of animal and plant origin (mink, badger, almond oil, sea buckthorn).

It follows that ointment bases are divided into several types:

• Lipophilic
• Hydrophilic
• Lipophilic-hydrophilic

The purpose of the ointment is to create a film on the surface of the skin and provide a greenhouse effect.

Thanks to fats, the components penetrate through the pores deep into the tissues and have a therapeutic effect:

Due to their oily consistency, ointments can leave marks on clothing, so it is better to use them at home. Some treatments require a compress or bandage. Ointment is an exclusively medicinal product that can only be purchased at a pharmacy.

All representatives of pharmacological groups exist in ointment form:

• Anesthetics
• Vitamins
• Antibiotics
• Antiseptics
• Hormones

The therapeutic effect of using the ointment depends on many factors:

• Storage conditions(temperature, humidity, etc.)
• Component Specifications, which are contained in the composition
• Concentration of active substances(with a higher percentage of active ingredients, the ointment works more effectively)
• Application method(for example, for warming, you can additionally apply a bandage or compress, which will enhance the greenhouse effect and the effect of the product)
• Application area(drug molecules penetrate into soft tissues much faster than into osteochondral tissues)
• Duration of use(it takes time for the components to seep through the pores of the skin and get into the painful area. That is, the ointment will not work the first time)
• Skin condition and degree of disease, for which ointment is used (for example, ointment for varicose veins can help at the initial stage of the appearance of vascular network, but if the variant is advanced, it will no longer help)