What is the difference between cream balm and cosmetic gel. Topical preparations have a number of advantages over other dosage forms.

This question worries many girls, because a large assortment in stores often confuses. Let's try to understand what the difference is.

Cream is cosmetic product to moisturize the skin. Available as an opaque emulsion.

Each girl chooses what is more convenient for her. Most often, gels are used for washing or lifting, and creams for moisturizing, especially in the evening and at night.

They can be both positive and negative, and this does not depend on the consistency, but on the quality of the product itself and the reaction of the skin to their use.

Absolutely all creams are based on oils and water. At the same time, emulsions are presented in two forms: "oil in water" and "water in oil".

In the first case, the amount of water reaches 80%, while the fat particles are evenly distributed in the aquatic environment. In the second case, the amount of fat reaches 70%.


Emulsifiers are used to grind the particles, they do not allow them to merge.

Manufacturers also add olive oil, jojoba oil, as well as animal fats to the composition. Cosmetics with such ingredients are of higher quality and more expensive.

A cheaper analogue is artificial mineral oils, which are refined products and are stored for a long time.

They create a film on the covers that impede its breathing. They can cause allergies and are difficult to digest, so you should not buy them.

Cosmetic gels are highly viscous and 80% water. Glycerin, gum arabic, pectin, agar-agar, trehalose, starch can also be used as ingredients.

Since the cream has a higher density and density in consistency, it forms a protective barrier on the skin.

At the same time, it nourishes and saturates well with nutrients, so it is well suited for dry and aging skin that needs moisture.

For acne-prone skin, it is also worth choosing a gel instead of a cream, this will help to avoid accumulation sebum and clogged pores.

Preferable for the eyes light cream-gel or gel to avoid swelling and get the necessary hydration.

Gels should be applied during the day, and creams should be applied at night for tightening and nutrition. The former relieve swelling, cool, relieve inflammation, and the latter are active at night.

So, the main differences between gel and cream:

  1. The basis of the gel is water and special moisture-retaining substances, the basis of the cream is water and fats.
  2. Gel - the best choice for the young and problematic skin, and the cream - for those in need of nutrition and fading.
  3. The gel is ideal for daytime use, while the cream is best applied at night.
  4. The gel does not form a film, so the skin breathes better.

To combat acne, girls use the most different means. Among them is an effective drug Skinoren.

Dermatologists often prescribe it to people different ages because he has almost no side effects.

What to choose Skinoren cream or gel
  1. As part of the product - azelaic acid, which reduces inflammation and destroys microbes.
  2. The medicine is produced in two consistencies - in the form of a cream and a gel, and many do not know which one to prefer.
  3. The main difference between them is the concentration of azelaic acid.
  4. The gel helps well with the inflammatory form and in rosacea treatment. Is effective tool for the prevention of black spots, prevent the occurrence of acne
  5. The cream is also prescribed to combat common acne and melasma. It reduces oily skin.

The components that make up Skinoren can enter the bloodstream through the skin, but in small quantities, therefore they do not have side effect. They are completely eliminated from the body.

Among the advantages of both cream and gel, the following should be highlighted:

  • not addictive
  • reduces the number of bacteria
  • relieves acne
  • cleanses the pores
  • reduces the outflow of sebum,
  • relieves pigmentation.

It is necessary to apply the drug twice a day for several months on previously cleansed skin.

You will have to be patient, as the medicine does not give an instant result. The gel is absorbed quickly, does not leave streaks, has nice smell. The cream quickly removes redness. Both consistencies are spent sparingly.

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Thus, both the cream and the Skinoren gel solve their problems equally well, but with severe inflammation, the cream will begin to act faster. And for regular use, including under makeup, you should prefer the gel.

Bepanten cream and ointment are medical and cosmetic products that are familiar to almost everyone. This product is especially appreciated by mothers, because it excellent tool for the care of the skin of the child, the treatment of wounds and abrasions, as well as cracked nipples during breastfeeding. Despite such a great popularity of Bepanten products, few people know what is the difference between this drug in the form of an ointment and cream.

Interesting! In addition to these two forms, Bepanten is available as a lotion in a bottle. The lotion also contains dexpanthenol and has healing properties.

What is the difference?

Both forms of one product are similar both externally (tubes) and their properties, but there are certain differences:

  1. Outwardly, without opening the tube, it is very easy to distinguish one form from another. The blue stripe on the packaging belongs to the creamy product, and the pink stripe to the ointment. Such a distinguishing feature allows you to quickly determine what exactly is in front of you.
  2. The main difference lies in the specific composition. Each product has its own set of components that help create the necessary mass. But the basis - dexpanthenol (provitamin B5) in two versions is contained in the same 5% concentration.
  3. The texture and consistency corresponds to the specified form. If the cream is perfectly absorbed, it is light and does not cause a feeling of stickiness, then the ointment form lays down thick and sticky layer, it is thicker and viscous.
  4. Ointment-like mass is absorbed much longer, so its action is prolonged.
  5. Judging by the numerous reviews about this product, we can conclude that the creamy substance is more of a prophylactic, while the ointment has pronounced healing properties.
  6. The main purpose of the cream is the treatment of dry and irritated skin, while the ointment form is recommended for the care of the epithelial cover of the child and mother.
  7. The convenience of the cream allows you to apply it on the skin before going out or at night, without staining clothes.

What is the price? The price is approximately 200 - 250 rubles, Bepanten ointment costs between 260 - 300 rubles. The difference in price is small, but it is worth considering the cost-effectiveness of using the ointment: thanks to its oily and rich structure, it will last longer.

Composition differences

The constituent components of these tools determine not only the texture, but also their action. The recipe has the following differences:


  1. For the treatment of light abrasions, wounds;
  2. With sunburn, redness and irritation on the skin;
  3. For the prevention of nipple cracks;
  4. As a daily skin care product;
  5. With minor damage to the epidermis;
  6. In order to provide quick effect and don't stain your clothes.

Ointment will be effective for:

  1. Treatment of dryness of the epidermis, including dermatitis of various origins;
  2. Healing cracks in the nipples and eliminating their dryness;
  3. Prevention and treatment of diaper rash in infants;
  4. For the care of dry and irritated skin of children and adults;
  5. For long lasting.

Each of the means has its own advantages and disadvantages. For some, a long-term effect is an undoubted advantage, for others it is big disadvantage. Many women note that a product with a thick consistency is best for caring for the skin of a child, as it creates a barrier film that repels moisture.

Conclusion

The difference between the two forms of Bepanthen lies in the consistency, formulation and purpose of the funds. Both forms have the same active ingredient - dexpanthenol (it has the main effect) and excipients that give the product a certain consistency and additional properties.

You probably came across such a case in a pharmacy when you came to buy a product, and they ask you what to sell you a cream or ointment. You probably don't know if they are the same or not. And if they are different, what is their difference? This is what I want to talk about in my article. Let's start with the fact that all external products (creams and ointments) contain a direct healing substance and a certain basis. Ointment and cream primarily differ in the following - for cream and ointment, the percentage of the medicinal substance may be the same, and the difference lies only in the basis of the external preparation.
Let's talk more about both tools.

It mainly uses a base of a very fatty nature. 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 tissues. And having passed the skin, even reach 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, and even more so into your blood. So the cream works practically only on the surface of your skin. Therefore, its effect is called local or local. It also contains a large number of water. And so creams are able to have a moisturizing and cooling effect. If you are smeared with cream, then there is a chance that it will appear on your clothes in the form of stains.

From the foregoing, 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.

A large assortment of medicinal and cosmetic external products can confuse consumers, what is the best buy. Often the acquisition of a particular product has the following consequences: the desired effect is obtained, not obtained, but sometimes it gets worse.

Everyone is accustomed to complaining about the manufacturer, the inconsistency with the declared action and the quality of the purchased products, but perhaps the reason is that the wrong choice of the structure of the external agent was initially made.

Knowing similarities and differences between creams and ointments, you will be able to choose the right ones for you, and not for your friend, on whose advice you bought something and were not satisfied. What is good for one person may be completely useless for another.

Similarities between ointment and cream

Everybody knows ointment use for treatment, A cream application more associated with cosmetics. But today there are many creams, including those of a medicinal nature, which are no worse than ointments in terms of the effectiveness of their effect on the skin.

Modern creams are produced for therapeutic effects on the skin, mucous membranes, muscles and even bone tissue and joints. Many healing creams have antifungal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, absorbable, healing, rejuvenating properties.

The similarity of creams and ointments lies in the fact that they are external agents intended for therapeutic effects on the skin and mucous membranes, eliminating existing problems.

Differences

A variety of bases can be used to make an ointment, and its consistency is most often transparent. The cream can be a cream-ointment and be a mixture of an ointment with a gel and a paste. The base of the cream is mainly oil, and it is rarely transparent.

Other difference between creams and ointments we can assume that the former can be sold in pharmacies and stores, ointments are sold only through specialized points.

If the ointment has a targeted effect on a narrow pathology, then the cream can be used to simultaneously eliminate defects of both a medical and cosmetic nature.

An example would beMummy cream. It has anti-inflammatory, decongestant, analgesic, wound healing, tonic and tissue regenerating effect. Mumiyo cream is used to restore bone tissue after fractures, including bruises, sprains, joint injuries, dislocations, injuries in the chest area.

Used as massage cream from stretch marks and cellulite. It will help with psoriasis, neurodermatitis, radiation burns and trophic ulcers. Mumiyo cream has proven its effectiveness in medicinal purposes and also helps to cope with aesthetic problems.

Argo's external products are aimed at preventing the occurrence of pathologies and complex impact on the body and skin. They can be purchased independently, the products have a mild and safe healing effect.

In addition to ointments and creams, on the shelves of our stores and pharmacies you can often find gels, which also have their own characteristics. from other external means by its structure and mechanism of action on the body.

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

Cream and ointment

Any skin care product consists of a base and an active or active substance. The difference between a cream and an ointment is precisely in the base, and the therapeutic active substance they usually have is 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 fatter than the cream.
  • An ointment, unlike a cream, does not contain water at all.

The cream is much lighter and better absorbed by the skin.

Differences in physical properties these funds determine their effect on the human body:

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

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

Gel and cream

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

  • A gel is a substance that is 80% water, while a cream is an emulsion of water and oil.
  • Gels have a high viscosity, do not contain fats and oils at all, therefore they do not leave on the skin or clothes. greasy traces.
  • Cream is an opaque substance, and gels are different a high degree transparency.
  • Most gels, unlike creams, have a pH close to that of the skin.
  • The cream is best applied to the skin in the evening, the gel can be used at any convenient time.

Water makes up to 80% of the gel composition

Cream and emulsion

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

Most cosmetic and medical creams are water-in-oil emulsions, which is why they have such a thick and oily texture. They easily penetrate the skin, but leave greasy marks on it. An emulsion is a solution of oil in water, which makes it light in texture. It contains very little lipids, so it doesn't feel greasy on the skin.

Pomegranate emulsion for stretch marks

Fluid and cream

Fluid is cosmetic product, which differs from cream in semi-liquid consistency and the minimum amount 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 conventional cream.

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

Fluids have the least amount of oils in the composition and have the lightest texture

Fluids are great for oily and combination skin and the cream is ideal remedy for dry skin.

The polymers that are part of 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 the active substance, usually a few percent. The concentration of active substances in the composition of the serum is ten times higher than that of the cream. Usually 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 fluid. These are emulsions created on a fat or water basis.

Moisturizing anti-stretch mark body serum

Serums are especially popular among middle-aged and older people. Typically, these remedies are used to address a specific skin problem. Serum is perfect for tightening the skin, its rejuvenation.

The composition of serums includes special compounds that increase the permeability of the skin, facilitating the penetration of the main active substances into it. They are also called "substances-conductors". Serums are often applied "under the cream".

Another difference between cream and serum is the cost of the latter. This tool is definitely not cheap.

Pastes and ointments

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

Due to the composition of the paste, their effect is more intense and long lasting. Pastes have drying and adsorbing properties, which allow them to be used as an anti-inflammatory agent.

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

Bepanten - the drug is produced in two forms: ointments and creams. Ointment and cream contain one active substance - dexpanthenol, in both forms its concentration is the same and is 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 composition of the ointment includes 50 gr almond oil and 250 mg of lanolin, these substances ideally moisturize the skin. The ointment also contains beeswax.

Akriderm - available in the form of an ointment and cream, is used for skin inflammation and allergy manifestations. The main active substance of both ointment and cream is betamethasone. Part various kinds This remedy includes 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 ointment - for dry. Learn more about Akriderm.

Akriderm - ointment for external use

Clotrimazole - is used for fungal skin pathologies 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 the product. The ointment is thicker and more oily, more suitable for dry skin, it is better to apply cream on wet areas. Learn more about 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 basis differs. The ointment penetrates deeper and faster, so 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 probably came across such a case in a pharmacy when you came to buy a product, and they ask you what to sell you a cream or ointment. You probably don't know if they are the same or not. And if they are different, what is their difference? This is what I want to talk about in my article.

Let's talk more about both tools.

It mainly uses a base of a very fatty nature. 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 this, the drug can penetrate deep into the tissues. And having passed the skin, even reach 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, and even more so into your blood. So the cream works practically only on the surface of your skin. Therefore, its effect is called local or local. It also contains a large amount of water. And so creams are able to have a moisturizing and cooling effect. If you are smeared with cream, then there is a chance that it will appear on your clothes in the form of stains.

From the foregoing, 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 an ointment and a cream?

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

Cream Feature

The cream has 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 is 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 spots so you don't have to worry about soiled clothes. Most creams have a light, pleasant scent that leaves little to no sillage.

Creams are used 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 boost collagen production
  • Baby - 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 material of the tube.

Characteristics of the ointment

All ointments, as a rule, are 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 vegetable origin (mink, badger, almond oil, sea buckthorn).

From this it follows that ointment bases are divided into several types:

The task 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 into the depths of the tissues and have a therapeutic effect:

  • Antibacterial
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Regenerating
  • warming
  • Painkiller

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

In the form of an ointment, there are all representatives of pharmacological groups:

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

  • Product storage conditions (temperature, humidity, etc.)
  • Characteristics of the components that are contained in the composition
  • The concentration of active substances (with a higher percentage of active ingredients, the ointment works more efficiently)
  • 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 (in soft tissues drug molecules penetrate much faster than bone and cartilage)
  • Duration of use (for the components to seep through the pores of the skin and get into the painful focus - it takes time. That is, the ointment will not work the first time)
  • The condition of the skin and the degree of disease for which the ointment is used (for example, ointment for varicose veins can help initial stage appearance vascular network, and when the version 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 basics are always different.

Differences between ointment and cream

In conclusion, drawing conclusions, we can note the distinguishing 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 conduct other components into the deep layers of the epidermis.
  2. According to the purpose of the cream, medical and cosmetic are distinguished, and the ointment is exclusively a drug.
  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 into the bloodstream, 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 on the problem that needs to be eliminated.

How is a balm (for body, face) different from a cream?

1. What is a body or face balm.

Skin needs hydration easy care is not always enough. Therefore, the balm is the very magic wand that moisturizes the skin. The balm has a lighter texture than the cream. It is designed to penetrate into the pores of the skin, moisturize and nourish. The cream most often lays down with a protective film and has a denser, oily structure.

In fact, the balm is a light emulsion, a more delicate texture and its composition is filled with various essential additives, herbal extracts. The balm does not require everyday use (like a cream), but is necessary in emergency cases (when the skin needs to be put in order when it is overdried and looks tired). Some balms are designed to restore the 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 is an additional one.

3. What are creams.

Light cream which acts as a moisturizer. Apply under make-up. Contains components that retain moisture inside skin cells. The most useful and common components.

  • hyaluronic acid.
  • Milk sour.
  • 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 make its consistency more dense, form a protective film on the skin and protect from bad weather.

And also for the skin of the face:

  • 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 example course of action is as follows:

  • We select grass for ourselves. Let it be linden. Fill the grass with nut butter (for example). We put the mixture in a water bath.
  • We simmer the future cream for 2 hours.
  • We choose a jar for cream, put wax and prepared filtered oil there.
  • We also put this mixture in a water bath for 10 minutes. We're filming.
  • Add a couple of drops of essential oil. Mix and wait for solidification.

The cream should be stored at room temperature about half a year.

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

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

No creams or lotions have ever given me such a range of sensations. If the sense of smell perceived the smell of some agent positively, then for touch and vision, perception became a purely physiological process of stimulating receptors, without transmitting signals of pleasure to the brain.

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

As soon as water is included in the composition of a cosmetic product, it immediately becomes necessary to add preservatives and other additives to it, which can hardly be called beneficial to the skin. This is done in order to avoid the growth of bacteria, because if the cosmetic product has a very small amount of water, then it must be "preserved" in some way. Bacteria need water to grow, and most beauty products contain enough high levels water where bacteria can easily grow. This is understood by insurance companies that insure cosmetics manufacturers, and regulators also understand this. Thus, of two evils - bacteria and preservatives - the choice is always made in favor of preservatives.

Go ahead. In the compositions of creams and lotions, water is 70 percent or more. As has become clear, in without fail emulsifiers/thickeners and preservatives are added to the water. Mathematically, it turns out that there is very little space left in the composition of the cream for active ingredients - this is 10-15%. And what is a balm in terms of composition? 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 more, just useful composition and concentrated formula to the best way to cope with the task of protecting, moisturizing and healing the skin. Not surprisingly, more and more companies are gradually starting to include such cosmetic product like a balm.

I met some producers household chemicals, which produce only dry washing powders They don't have liquid products. They position themselves as companies with an honest attitude towards the consumer. 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 healthy. So after all, everything is the same with cosmetics, and in the case of cream / lotion we are talking not only the presence of a large percentage of water in the composition, but also a less natural and effective formula.

So I always prefer a balm to a cream, not only because the balm excites my senses in a pleasant way, but also because, as a cosmetic product, the balm makes a lot more sense, 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 pleases the eye to some extent, but does not bring any benefits to the body. And the fact that today the choice of balms is only increasing, new brands and products are appearing, makes the expectation of getting to know each “balsamic” novelty a particularly pleasant anticipation. Perhaps my next choice there will be Skin Savoir from One Love Organics.

Balms: how are they different from creams, and how to use them correctly?

Daily face and neck care essential condition youth and beauty, which every woman must observe. Soft skin face needs regular nutrition to maintain smoothness, elasticity, tone and healthy color. It must be protected from temperature extremes, harsh winds and direct sunlight.

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

Face balm - origin story

Balms and oils for the face have traditionally been used in Rus' since the days of paganism. Russian herbalists were well aware of 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 skin-friendly vegetable oils, whose care properties were enhanced by the addition of extracts 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 kept for quite a long time. long period time. Balms and ointments were made in summer and autumn, when the herbs were gaining their healing power, and were used throughout the year. How did they manage to keep 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 total absence in their composition of water - the main moisturizing component, which all creams necessarily contain.

It would seem that this is a big drawback, because we are used to nourishing and moisturizing the skin at the same time with daily care. However, oddly enough, the water in the cream is the main enemy of its naturalness, since it serves as a favorable environment for the reproduction of various harmful bacteria. The multiplication of bacteria leads to the fact that the cream quickly deteriorates. 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 smooth 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 does not multiply in them, which means that there is no need to destroy it with a preservative. Emulsifiers are also superfluous here. Therefore, facial balms consist exclusively of useful ingredients, the tasks of which are to nourish and protect the skin, there are no ballast substances in them.

Nutrients base oils as part of balms, such as cedar, peach, sea buckthorn, shea, they perfectly care for the face and neck, saturating it essential vitamins and micronutrients. Beeswax protects against the effects of cold, temperature extremes and wind, while essential oils disinfect and restore damaged epidermal cells.

Does this mean that the use of balms for daily care excludes moisturizing the skin? Ultimately, no! But it’s not enough just to choose and buy a face balm correctly, you need to learn how to use it. Adding a moisturizing ingredient to a balm is easy - and it's best to do it right before applying the product to the skin.

Balm and oil for the face - methods of application

There are two ways to combine applying a balm with moisturizing the skin:

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

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

Facial balms, which you can buy in our store

Different manufacturers of natural cosmetics develop their own formulations of balm creams, and each has its own interesting features.

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

A feature of the recipe of Mirolada brand cream-balms is cedar oleoresin in combination with the composition essential oils, which have the most pronounced beneficial effect on the skin.

At the manufacturer LadoYar, the basis of balms and ointments is Cedar oil obtained by cold pressing on a wooden press. This oil keeps 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, mummy. All of them have an excellent healing effect, soften the skin well and smooth its relief.

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

The article was prepared by the Katena project team.

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What is better ointment or cream?

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

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 confuses us. In this article, we will try to give brief description each dosage form and recommendations for their use. This will help you get the most out of your money spent on your medicine.

The cream basically contains oils or water. Therefore, the cream is easily and quickly absorbed into the skin, but does not penetrate deep. The cream should be applied to the skin with "wet" lesions, that is, when there is any discharge on the surface. Usually, after a few minutes after application, the cream does not leave any traces and does not stain clothes. Therefore, the cream is recommended to be used in the morning or afternoon. After application, you can put on any clothes and do the planned things.

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 a cream, an ointment penetrates deeper into the skin. Usually, the ointment is used for "dry" diseases and for seals (infiltration) of the skin. Ointments are applied under the 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 clothing. Therefore, ointments are usually recommended to be applied at night. And while you sleep, the active component of the drug performs its therapeutic purpose.

The gel is a viscous dosage form. The gel properties are more like a cream. The only difference is that the gel does not contain any fats or oils. The gel has a pH close to the pH of the skin, evenly distributes on the applied surface, is quickly absorbed, does not clog pores (unlike ointment). Some drugs in the form of a gel have a higher therapeutic activity than in the form of ointments or creams.

Lotion is a liquid dosage form for external use in the form of a water-alcohol solution. Often used to treat the scalp, as the lotion easily reaches the skin and does not settle on the hair in in large numbers. 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 the liniment includes fats and oils in various proportions. Depending on the predominant component, the liniment acquires the properties of an ointment or cream. characteristic feature liniment is that it begins to melt at body temperature.

Suspension - a liquid form, which is one or more solid medicinal substances dissolved in a liquid (water, glycerin, liquid oil, etc.). Usually, these drugs are absorbed at a moderate 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 vial and form two layers. Therefore, before use, the emulsion must be shaken and mixed. Usually, emulsions are quickly absorbed and do not leave marks on the skin.

Paste is an ointment of dense consistency, the content of powdery substances in which exceeds 20%. Therefore, it has the appearance of a slurry and affects the skin for a long time. Usually has a drying effect.

Choose a remedy based on the nature of the disease present and the characteristics of each dosage form. So are you in as soon as possible reach maximum effect from treatment.

What is the difference between Acyclovir ointment and cream?

The release of Acyclovir is made in such forms as ointment, cream and tablets. What is better Aciclovir cream or ointment? In the ointment, the concentration of the active substance is 3% or 5%, and in the cream 5%. Doctors are more often prescribed, in the treatment of a disease in the lip area, an ointment, the concentration of which is 5%. The ointment creates a reliable coating due to its oily consistency, so many people think that Acyclovir is best taken in the form of an ointment.

Ointments and creams for herpes infection are among the most effective medicines that cure this ailment. Herpes is a small watery pimple that affects the surface of the lips. These pimples are a viral disease, so it is necessary special approach for a cure. If not start timely treatment, the disease has the ability to grow rapidly.

Features of Acyclovir in the form of ointment and cream

During the acquisition of Acyclovir for external use, most patients have a number of questions. The bewilderment lies in the fact that the drug 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 are fatty substances, which include petroleum jelly, lanolin and many others. In creams, the amount of fatty components is much smaller. For this reason, the cream is often referred to as a soft ointment. Because of different composition creams and ointments, medicines are absorbed and distributed over the surface in different ways.

A feature of ointments is a rather slow absorption, which allows them to remain on the skin for a long period. The distribution of the ointment occurs gradually. The cream has a fast 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 varieties of Acyclovir, it is necessary to initially adequately assess the affected area on 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. Due to this, the affected elements are not damaged. In the presence of diseases that are located on areas of the body characterized by frequent contact with clothing, it is better to give preference to the cream. The drug does not leave marks on clothes, so it is more suitable for treatment.

Features of Acyclovir tablets

Since the drug is still available in the form of tablets, you should know what is best for you, tablets or Acyclovir ointment. The popularity of the ointment in the treatment of herpes infections, compared with tablets, is explained by the following reasons:

  • ointment makes it possible to treat only the affected areas;
  • no need to take the drug course;
  • ointment has the ability to relieve the symptoms of the disease;
  • when using external agents, the focus of infection is covered with the drug, so that the virus cells do not have the opportunity to get to neighboring areas;
  • the use of the drug in the form of an ointment allows you not to affect the internal organs, since the influence of the active substance affects only the outer shell.

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What is the difference between an ointment and a cream?

  • ointment for treatment. cream for prevention.
  • cream is tastier - it’s not for nothing that they put it on cakes.))
  • Cream (literally translated from English cream) is a cosmetic product for facial skin care in the form of an emulsion.

    The basis of all modern skin care creams, as in ancient times, is a composition of fatty substances, water and biologically active components. Since water and oil do not mix, emulsifiers are introduced.

    A significant part of ancient cosmetics were fragrant oils and ointments, which were obtained from vegetable and animal fats. They were mixed with infusions of flowers, tonic and healing additives were introduced.

    In the Mediterranean, olive oil was the most commonly used cream base. Many African tribes for cosmetic purposes, raffia palm oil is used.

    It is believed that the famous ancient physician Galen created a mixture of spermaceti, wax, almond oil and water, called "cold cream" - "cold cream". For many centuries it was the only cream.

    Depending on the purpose, creams are distinguished:

    "Protective" - ​​the composition includes aloe, para-aminobenzoic acid, hydroquinone esters, persalts, zinc and titanium oxides, ocher and others. All of them play the role of light filters.

    Ointment (unguentum) is a soft dosage form for external use, having a viscous consistency, capable of forming a continuous film on the surface of the skin and mucous membranes.

    Homogeneous ointment characterized by the absence of an interfacial interface between medicinal substances and the ointment base (ointment-solution, ointment-alloy).

    Protective ointment (syn. prophylactic ointment) intended for application to the skin of the hands and face in order to prevent or reduce the impact of occupational hazards or damaging factors of weapons of mass destruction.

    Combined ointment including simultaneously both medicinal substances soluble in the ointment base and powders and (or) solutions of medicinal substances insoluble in it.

    Suspension ointment in the ointment base of which a solid powdered medicinal substance insoluble in it is introduced.

    Extraction ointment is made by extracting medicinal substances from vegetable or animal raw materials with a melted ointment base or vegetable oil.

    Emulsion ointment in the ointment base of which a solution of a medicinal substance insoluble in it is introduced.

  • Cream on the cake, and ointment on the rest.)))))))
  • Ointment, one of the dosage forms for external use. It consists of a base (lanolin, petroleum jelly, etc.) and an active medicinal substance. When the content in the base is more than 25% dry powder, a paste is formed. Liquid ointments are called liniments. Medicinal substances, when absorbed from the ointment, have not only a local, but also a general effect on the body. Ointments containing irritants can have a general effect in a reflex way. Available in both tubes and jars.

    A CREAM is a cosmetic ointment. Creams are emulsions consisting of two phases and come in two types: oil in water (emulsion direct type) and water in oil (indirect emulsion) .

    Emulsifiers for emulsions of the first type are waxes, for the second - pentol. In cosmetology, moisturizing, nourishing, protective, light-protective creams are used, based on liposomal components, hormonal with cytokines, with fruit acids, anti-cellulite, etc. Also available in both tubes and jars.

    Various cosmetic creams necessary for women to always remain beautiful, young and loved, both for themselves and for others.

  • A cream may be brulee, but an ointment may not.
  • Ointment is made on oily base, which creates such a brilliant film on the skin without being absorbed (or partially absorbed), and the cream is absorbed without leaving marks, for example, on clothes.

    Unlike ointments, the cream - "oil in water" - is retained for a long time in the upper layers of the epidermis, slowly enters the bloodstream and therefore has a low systemic and strong local anti-inflammatory effect.

  • Apply ointment, apply cream
  • Ointment is smeared, and cream is cremated; -)))

    What is the difference between an ointment and a cream?

    Ointment - a form containing at its core the largest number fats. It is characterized by the greatest depth of penetration of the active substance. Recommended for the treatment of dry skin rashes. Since the fatty components of ointments are not absorbed into the skin, they can stain clothes. Do not apply ointments to weeping skin rashes.

    Cream is a form, the basis of which contains oils and water. As a rule, it is well absorbed into the skin, within a few minutes after application it does not stain clothes, does not leave oily sheen» on the skin of the face. The penetration depth of the active substance is less than that of the ointment. It is used for acute inflammatory reactions, can be applied to moderately weeping surfaces.