Q. What are the differences between ointment, cream, gel and lotion?

Answer

Ointment contains oil and water in a ratio of 80:20. While cream comprises equal amounts of water and oil. Gel combines water, cellulose, and alcohol as primary constituents.  A lotion is predominantly water-based and contains very less amount of oil. Creams and lotion show better absorption than ointments. Gel is an oil-free product which is best suited for oil skin. Gels are preferred over lotion during hot and humid weather. Ointments remain on top of the skin for some time than absorbed in the skin like a cream. In this way, an ointment protects against loss of moisture and dry air.