Frankly, like most people, I consider keeping my skin soft and hydrated my top priority. However, doing so can get complicated, especially with the fact that I have to choose between scooping or pumping my moisturizers before usage.
For ages, body creams and lotions have long helped smooth, fix, and moisturize dry skin.
However, with numerous brands and products on the market, including butter and whips, you might agree that finding the one that works best for you is tasking.
Understanding the difference between creams and lotions would give you great insight into how both work effectively plus their benefits and distinct ingredients.
In this post, we would share What’s the difference? And what’s best for your skin type? and you would learn how to pick the best option for your skin type, read on!
SIMILARITIES
One can actually miss the difference between creams and lotions because what they do is so similar. Both products are formulated to moisturize and keep the skin protected.
Body creams and lotions can lock moisture in the skin by creating a barrier against transepidermal water loss or drawing moisture up to the skin’s surface from deeper layers by acting as a humectant.
THE DIFFERENCE.
Simply, the difference between creams and lotions is in their formulation process, which, in turn, results in very different textures.
“It boils down to viscosity or thickness,” says Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, the dermatologist at Mudgil Dermatology.
You could simply say, lotions are lighter with more water content and less oil. body creams are heavier and thicker, with more oil content and less water.
Body creams are about 50 per cent emulsions of water and oil. This is due to their high oil content, they are very thick, and sometimes they may leave a greasy feel once rubbed in.
Body lotions, on the other hand, are emulsions with very little or no amount of oil. Some formulations may be oil-free.
Body lotions often use alcohol to keep the oil and water components from separating, and that helps create a silky feel once rubbed in. Body lotions are easy to pour or pump, unlike body creams.
WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER?
Before you choose, there are some factors to consider when deciding between cream or lotion
- Your actual skin type
Generally, body creams are way better for people with dry skin, while lotions are better for those with oily skin. It is vital to know that thicker mixtures seal in more moisture and provide protective shields to keep skin hydrated and supple. While thinner formulas help prevent clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Body lotions are also widely recommended for people with sensitive skin or combination. Most men with beards may prefer lotions as well because they will not leave an oily residue on their mustache or beard.
- Your face
The face is a delicate and sensitive part of the body. Dr. Mudgil asserts that “For the face, a non-comedogenic preparation is key, Non-comedogenic means pores won’t get clogged or blocked, which is very important for the face, especially for individuals who have acne-prone skin.”
Dr. Mudgil says lotions “work best on the face for all skin types. The exception is the lips, where butter is a great option. Their thickness assists itself to that area.”
Therefore, when trying to purchase a lotion or cream when next you visit the mall, do well to check out their contents and indicators, as some body creams would indicate ‘for face and body.’
- The weather
Ever heard that the colder the weather, the more glow and more pleasing your skin turns out to be?
Yes! colder weather brings cooling air, and that helps your cream to work faster and even better. Body creams offer more protection for the skin against dry climate-controlled air and harsh winds. However, switching to body lotions during the summer months for products that allow more breathability is a top tier.
- For Your hands
I think it’s no news that the hands have more dry skin issues. This can be caused by daily habits, occupational duties, and increased contact with chemicals, such as washing detergents or household cleaning agents.
The hands are also more exposed to frequent hand washing, which can cause dryness and roughness.
Thicker formulas, like creams or butter, can help balance this by giving the skin more hydration.
- Your Skin Conditions
1. Eczema
According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), skin ointments are the regarded as the best moisturiser for eczema, this is because they have a very high oil content. Creams can be used also.
Lotions are widely not thick enough or contain too much water to be of benefit to those with eczema.
Conversely, some research has shown that most moisturisers have beneficial effects in reducing flares and the severity of eczema.
2. For Acne
For acne-prone skin, Dr. Mudgil believes that “Lotion, lotion, lotion. If you are acne prone, creams could cause more harm because they are too thick and likely clog your pores, leading to further acne breakouts or even more severe ones” she says.
You can check out some moisturisers that contain metals and botanical extracts for their anti-inflammatory properties, such as:
- green tea
- aloe vera
- witch hazel
- allantoin (as in comfrey)
- licochalcone (from licorice root)
- tea tree
Disclaimer: The above information written in this article is solely meant for informational and educational purposes only. The article written/published does not intend to diagnose, treat or cure any disease and should not be treated as medical advice. Seek Professional help when necessary.
References:
“National Eczema Association (NEA)“
“COCHRANE LIBRARY.COM”
“WEB IMAGES“
