Creams and Ointments

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What Are Creams and Ointments? Creams and ointments are topical preparations applied directly to the skin to treat or manage a wide variety of conditions. A cream is a water-based emulsion that absorbs quickly and feels lighter on the skin, making it suitable for moist or weeping areas. An ointment, by contrast, is oil-based, providing a thicker barrier that helps to lock in moisture and is often preferred for dry, scaly, or thickened skin. Both forms are widely available as skin cream pharmacy options across the UK, and many can be purchased without a prescription. Creams Creams are semi-solid emulsions containing both water and oil. They spread easily, absorb into the skin relatively quickly, and are generally preferred for use on larger areas of the body or on areas prone to sweating. They are commonly used for conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and fungal infections. Ointments Ointments are greasy, oil-based preparations that create a protective occlusive layer on the skin. Because they prevent moisture loss more effectively than creams, they are often recommended for very dry, cracked, or thickened skin conditions such as psoriasis or chronic eczema. They are less suited to wet or weeping lesions. What Causes Common Skin Conditions Requiring Topical Treatment? A wide range of factors can trigger or worsen skin conditions that are commonly treated with creams and ointments. Understanding the underlying cause can help you choose the most appropriate topical treatment cream for your needs. In many cases, a combination of genetic and environmental factors is involved. Allergic reactions: Contact with allergens such as nickel, latex, or certain cosmetics can cause contact dermatitis. Dry skin and weather changes: Cold, dry air strips moisture from the skin, leading to cracking, flaking, and irritation. Fungal or bacterial infections: Organisms such as Candida or Staphylococcus can infect the skin, requiring medicated ointment treatment. Immune system dysfunction

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