Back
to top
Back to Section 13 Selection Page
13.1
Vehicles
Choice of vehicle can mean the difference between treatment success and failure. Patients will not use a topical therapy that irritates their skin, and will be loath to use one that does not ‘feel right’.
| Ointments | are greasy and generally insoluble in water, so can be difficult to wash off. They are most suitable for chronic dry conditions. |
| Creams | contain oil and water, so are easier to apply and wash off, and are more cosmetically acceptable. They are better than ointments for acute conditions due to a cooling effect as they evaporate. However, their constituents are more likely to cause both irritant and allergic reactions. |
| Lotions | also have a cooling effect, and may be preferable for treating hairy and large areas. They can be made up in either water or alcohol. The latter will sting if applied to broken skin. |
| Gels | have a high water content, and are suitable for face and scalp. |
© 2010 NHS Tayside