Moisturizer vs lotion: what's the difference?

How do lotion, cream, gel and ointment compare?

Which should you choose?

• For otherwise normal skin with mild seasonal dryness, lotion can be enough.
• For consistently dry skin, start with a cream or ointment rather than lotion. Both retain more moisture.
• For oily skin, consider a light gel rather than automatically choosing a rich cream.
• For combination skin, moisturize the dry areas rather than applying the same amount everywhere.
• For sensitive or dry skin, choose fragrance free products. "Unscented" can still mean ingredients have been added to hide other smells.

You can change textures with the season: lotion can suit hot, humid weather, while cream can offer more hydration in cold, dry weather. A format that works in summer does not have to remain your choice through winter.3

What actually makes a moisturizer work?

Moisturizers combine ingredients with different jobs. Humectants, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, attract and hold water. Occlusives, such as petrolatum and mineral oil, help keep existing moisture from escaping. Emollients soften and smooth the skin. Texture helps you choose a format, but the ingredients matter too.56

How should you apply lotion or cream?

1. 1Wash with warm rather than hot water and a gentle cleanser.
2. 2Gently pat your skin with a towel, leaving it slightly damp.
3. 3Apply your moisturizer promptly after washing to help trap that moisture.
4. 4Smooth the product gently over the skin in the direction your hair grows rather than rubbing vigorously.
5. 5If using a tub, remove the product with a clean spoon or spatula to reduce contamination.

Reapply when your skin feels dry or tight, including after handwashing. Slightly dry skin can need only a light moisturizer at night; more persistent dryness can need several applications daily. Cream can work during the day, with a greasier ointment at night. Expect help with dryness and comfort rather than a permanent fix from one application.2456

If you use a steroid cream or another prescribed skin treatment, leave 20 to 30 minutes between the treatment and your moisturizer. Ask the prescriber which goes first, because applying them together can dilute the treatment or spread it beyond the intended area.4

What is the difference between Vanicream moisturizer and lotion?

Vanicream offers both lotion and cream, so the word moisturizer is not reserving a seat for the thicker one. If you mean Vanicream Moisturizing Cream versus Vanicream Moisturizing Lotion, the practical format choice is richer cream versus lighter lotion. Both carry the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer is another separately named product, not another name for its Moisturizing Cream.3

Is moisturizer the same as lotion?

A moisturizing lotion counts as your moisturizer; you do not need a separate cream just to complete that step. Comparing moisturizer with lotion is comparing a category with one of its formats, a contest with only one entrant.1

When should you stop or get help?

Stop a product that causes a rash and seek advice. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor about persistent burning, stinging or inflamed hair follicles. Heavy occlusive products can aggravate acne. If dryness continues despite regular moisturizing, or becomes painful, cracked or bleeding, see a dermatologist. Introduce only one new moisturizer at a time so a reaction is easier to trace.1456

Keep clothing and bedding with emollient residue away from flames and cigarettes. This applies to both paraffin containing and paraffin free emollients, and washing fabric does not completely remove the residue.4