Avinash V. MoreDepartment of cosmetic Technology

Anuradha college of Pharmacy, Chikhli

Common types of topical

formulations

Common types of topical formulationscreamointmentpastelotiongel

factors to consider when choosing a topical preparation

1. Cream

emulsion of water and oil classified as oil in water (o/w) or water in oil

(w/o) emulsionso/w creams (e.g. vanishing creams) spread

easily and do not leave the skin greasy and sticky

w/o creams (e.g. cold cream) are more greasy and more emollient

creams contain emulsifiers and preservatives which may cause contact allergy

2. Ointment

semi-solid preparations of hydrocarbons (petrolatum, mineral oil, paraffins, synthetic hydrocarbons)

strong emollient effect makes it useful in dry skin conditions

occlusive effect enhances penetration of active drug and improves efficacy (especially in thickened, lichenified skin)

provides a protective film on the skin (e.g., useful in housewife’s hands, irritant dermatitis)

greasy, sticky, retains sweat (therefore, not suitable in wet weepy dermatitis, hairy areas, skin prone to folliculitis, or hot weather conditions)

contains no water and does not require a preservative

3. Paste

mixture of powder and ointment (e.g., zinc oxide 20% paste)

addition of powder improves porosity (breathability). For example, when treating diaper rash, a protective ointment base which also allows breathability of the skin is desired.

addition of powder to change an ointment into a paste also increases the consistency of the preparation so that it is more difficult to rub off. This property is useful when one does not want an irritating preparation to get onto the normal skin (e.g., anthralin paste for treating psoriasis).

4. Lotion

a loosely used term that nowadays includes any liquid preparation in which inert or active medications are suspended or dissolved

an o/w emulsion with a high water content to give the preparation a liquid consistency can be considered a lotion

most lotions are aqueous or hydroalcoholic systems; small amounts of alcohol are added to aid solubilization of the active ingredient(s) and to hasten evaporation of the solvent from the skin surface

most acne lotions are hydroalcoholic which evaporate fast; they are non-sticky and drying

emulsion type lotions are usually not drying, depending on the water content (higher water and/or less oil is more drying)

lotions are easy to apply to large areas lotions are suitable for hairy areas, skin prone to folliculitis/acne,

intertriginous areas

5. Gel

transparent preparations containing cellulose ethers or carbromer in water or a water-alcohol mixture

gels liquify on contact with the skin, dry and leave a thin film of active medication

gels tend to be dryingthey are useful in hairy areasthey are cosmetically acceptable

Factors to consider when choosing a topical preparation:

Always consider the effect of the vehicle. An occlusive vehicle enhances penetration of the active ingredient and improves efficacy. The vehicle itself may have a cooling, drying, emollient, or protective action. It can also cause side effects by being excessively drying or occlusive.

Match the type of preparation with the type of lesions. For example, avoid greasy ointments for acute weepy dermatitis.

Match the type of preparation with the site (e.g., gel or lotion for hairy areas).

Consider irritation or sensitization potential. Generally, ointments and w/o creams are less irritating, while gels are irritating. Ointments do not contain preservatives or emulsifiers if allergy to these agents is a concern.