Question

An ointment is a thick, semisolid mixture of a drug in a base of about . a liquid is a drug dissolved in a liquid base such as water or . a lotion is a thick, liquid mixture of a drug in a base. a cream is a thick, semisolid mixture of drug in a base of about .

Answer 1

Topical preparations such as creams, ointments, and lotions each have distinct properties and applications, with variations in water and oil content influencing their cosmetic and therapeutic effects on the skin.

Step-by-step explanation:

Topical preparations for skin application come in various forms, each with its characteristics and uses. Creams are semi-solid emulsions that can be either oil-in-water or water-in-oil, with different cosmetic and therapeutic properties. The oil-in-water type is usually less greasy, can be washed off with water, and is cosmetically preferred. On the other hand, water-in-oil creams provide increased moisture as they reduce water loss from the skin.

Ointments, which are also semi-solid, tend to have a thicker, more viscous consistency than creams and are used for their healing effects on the skin. Lotions are low-viscosity liquids that are more easily spread on the skin, typically used for moisturizing or as vehicles for medicinal agents. In contrast to creams and ointments, lotions have a higher water content and lower viscosity, facilitating skin application and absorption.

The composition of these preparations typically includes water, oil, an emulsifier to maintain the mixture's stability, and sometimes a thickening agent. Regardless of the type, the use of these products aims to protect, moisturize, and deliver active agents to the skin.