Oil-based. Provide occlusive film over skin and help retain water. Aid skin hydration and penetration of topical treatment
Tend not to require preservatives as lack of water in preparation prevents microbial growth
Greasy and cosmetically less appealing to use
Creams
Emulsions containing water and oil. May be composed of oil in water or water in oil (oily creams). Aid skin hydration, but generally less effectively than ointments
Cosmetically acceptable
Contain preservatives, which may cause sensitisation
Lotions
Watery suspensions, often containing alcohol
Easily spread over a large area. Evaporation of water or alcohol has a drying, cooling effect
Cosmetically acceptable
Useful for hair-bearing areas, such as the scalp
Contain preservatives and therefore have sensitising potential. Alcohol may cause stinging
Gels
Semisolid emulsion in alcohol base. Useful for suspending insoluble drugs
Good absorbent properties
Tend to dry on skin
Useful for hair-bearing areas. Cosmetically acceptable especially for use on the face
Relatively high irritant and sensitising potential