Lanolin cream vs ointment

What is the difference?

Lanolin moisturizes and protects skin by forming an oily barrier that reduces water loss. Cream and ointment describe the type of preparation, not a standard lanolin concentration. Use the following general texture differences to choose a format, then follow the particular product's label.3

Ointments can get on clothes and bedsheets, so the moisturizing routine sometimes includes the laundry.2

Which should you choose?

Choose a cream when you want a less greasy finish during the day. Choose an ointment for very dry, thickened skin when moisture retention matters more than quick absorption. A cream during the day and an ointment at night is a reasonable combination, not a declaration of loyalty to two tubs.1

Lanolin cream is an option for keeping skin hydrated in ichthyosis vulgaris, a condition that causes excessively dry, scaly skin. Thick lanolin based ointments are also used for chronic psoriasis plaques, especially on hands and feet. These uses do not make either format the default choice for eczema.45

For eczema, choose a mild cream or ointment without fragrance. Some people find lanolin helpful, but it can become an allergen, so a moisturizer without lanolin is a more cautious choice. Keeping eczema prone skin moisturized helps relieve discomfort and reduce flares; the aim is hydration, not choosing the richest sounding product.26

How do you apply it?

1. 1Read the product label for the amount and frequency. Wash your hands before and after applying lanolin ointment.
2. 2Apply your moisturizer after washing, bathing or showering, while the skin is still damp.
3. 3Smooth the moisturizer gently in the direction your hair grows rather than rubbing it in.
4. 4Keep lanolin ointment out of your eyes and use it externally only. Do not cover it with a bandage or dressing unless your care team tells you to.

For general emollient care, reapply whenever skin feels dry or tight; three or four applications daily is a useful starting point. For dyshidrotic eczema, which affects hands or feet, apply moisturizer after washing and whenever skin feels dry. Remove rings before moisturizing your hands.17

If you use a steroid cream or another skin treatment, leave 20 to 30 minutes between that treatment and an emollient, and ask your doctor which goes first. Before layering other skin products over the same area as a medicinal lanolin ointment, check with your care team.13

When should you get advice?

Seek medical advice promptly for a rash, itching, hives or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat after lanolin use. Report persistent irritation, redness or dryness too. If the treated area has not improved within a week, contact your care team. Ask before using medicinal lanolin ointment during pregnancy, while breastfeeding or on a child.3

Keep emollients away from flames and cigarettes. Clothing, bedding and dressings carrying product residue can catch fire easily, and washing does not completely remove the residue.1