Ointments, creams, gels, balms, and pastes – What products do we use and what are they worth applying for?

The care of skin and mucous membranes is an integral part of human life, as we encounter various creams and ointments from infancy, such as diaper cream. These preparations serve not only cosmetic purposes but also have therapeutic effects, playing an important role in protecting and moisturizing the skin. Skincare products encompass a wide range, including ointments, creams, and other formulations with varying consistencies.

Due to the diversity of products available on the market, users often find it challenging to determine which preparation would be most suitable for them. The choice between different skincare products fundamentally depends on the consistency of the formulations. It is important to consider that various formulations contain different active ingredient concentrations, absorption rates, and application areas. Selecting the right product is crucial not only for skin health but also for achieving the desired results.

Types of Skincare Products

Ointment

Ointments are semi-solid preparations developed for treating skin surfaces or mucous membranes. Ointments are characterized by containing active ingredients dispersed in greasier bases, such as oils. Due to this characteristic, ointments are thicker and less easily absorbed, meaning they take longer to penetrate the skin. They are excellent for moisturizing the skin, particularly on thicker skin areas like the hands and feet.

Ointments are primarily used for therapeutic purposes, as they can deliver active ingredients deeper into the skin layers. Additionally, ointments may be ideal for protecting the skin, as their greasier nature allows them to retain moisture better. Besides medical use, ointments can also be applied for cosmetic purposes, such as softening the skin.

Cream

Creams have a higher water content than ointments, reaching up to 60-70%. This property allows creams to be easier to apply and absorb more quickly into the skin. Creams are mainly formulated for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, such as alleviating joint pain or treating allergic skin reactions.

Since creams absorb quickly, they are generally invisible on the skin, but they retain less water than ointments. Therefore, they are not as suitable for deep hydration as ointments, but they are excellent for reducing water loss. When used on thinner skin areas, such as the face, creams can be particularly effective.

Paste

Pastes are characterized by containing a large amount of finely dispersed powder, which increases their adhesive properties. This characteristic can be advantageous during surface treatments, where the goal is not absorption but rather sealing the skin surface. Pastes are generally thicker and harder to apply but are excellent for protecting the skin.

When using pastes, it is important to consider that they do not necessarily penetrate the deeper layers of the skin but rather exert their effects on the skin’s surface. Such preparations are often found in everyday life, for example, for treating skin irritations or creating a protective layer.

Gel

Gels are homogeneous, jelly-like substances made by dispersing various liquid compounds in a solid medium. Gels typically absorb quickly, providing an immediate effect on the skin. This property can be particularly appealing to those with oilier skin types, as gels may leave a slightly dry sensation.

Gels are widely available and are often used for medicinal purposes, such as among pain-relieving preparations. Because they act quickly, they can be ideal for treating acute skin problems, such as swellings or inflammations.

Compress Ointment

Compress ointment, also known as a poultice, consists of heat-retaining ingredients and dispersed active substances. This preparation can be particularly useful when heat is needed for more effective treatment. It can be applied thickly and heated, enhancing the penetration of active ingredients into the skin.

Compress ointments are well-suited for pain relief and inflammation reduction, as heat helps improve blood circulation and cell regeneration. These types of preparations are often used for treating various injuries, muscle pain, or joint issues.

Balm

Balms can be considered a subtype of ointments, containing a large amount of oily components, making them almost solid in consistency. Balms are difficult to apply and absorb slowly, but this property allows them to form a waterproof layer on the skin.

Balms often contain plant oils that stabilize the active ingredients and enhance skin hydration. They provide an excellent choice for treating extremely dry skin areas, as they offer long-term protection for the skin.

Conclusion

When choosing skincare products, it is important to consider various factors, including skin type, the problem to be treated, and the water and oil content of the preparation. Professionals such as dermatologists, cosmetologists, or pharmacists can provide assistance in selecting the right product. Skincare is not just an aesthetic issue; it is also essential for maintaining skin health.