Like most people, you want to keep your skin soft and hydrated. But doing so can get complicated, especially with all the products that are available.
For instance, choosing between cream vs lotion isn’t as easy as it might seem. That’s why it’s important to know the difference between the two, including their benefits and ingredients. Let’s take a closer look:
What is Lotion?
Perhaps the biggest difference between lotion and cream is that lotions have higher water content. A lotion is typically a mix of water and droplets of oil, is lighter weight than cream, and is non-greasy.
What is Cream?
Like the lotion, a cream is a blend of oil and water, but with a higher oil concentration (a 50-50 ratio of water and oil). Creams are thicker in consistency than lotions and provide a barrier that keeps skin ultra-hydrated. The body cream is usually sold in a jar container or tub because of its thickness.
Creams do feel greasier than most lotions because of their higher percentage of oil.
What are the Benefits of Lotion?
Because body lotion is more readily absorbed by the skin – due to its lower viscosity than cream – it’s excellent for normal to slightly dry skin. It leaves a less greasy residue than cream and is ideal for use during the day and in hot summer months.
What are the Benefits of Cream?
Like the lotion, body cream is used to treat and prevent dry, cracked skin while keeping it supple and moisturized. Because it provides a barrier that provides ultra-hydration, it’s best for dry to excessively dry skin and for normal skin during the harsher winter months.
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion for Dry Skin
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion for Dry Skin | Body Lotion & Facial Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides | Fragrance-Free
Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion has a unique, lightweight & non-greasy formula that provides 24-hour hydration and helps restore the protective skin barrier with three essential ceramides (1,3,6-II). The formula also contains hyaluronic acid to help retain the skin’s natural moisture. This oil-free moisturizer with hyaluronic acid leaves the skin feeling comfortable and is gentle on the skin.
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle, non-irritating formula
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream For Body and Face
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | Body and Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin | Body Cream with Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides | Normal | Fragrance-Free
Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream has a unique formula that provides 24-hour hydration and helps restore the protective skin barrier with three essential ceramides (1,3,6-II) and hyaluronic acid. This rich, non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula is ideal for sensitive skin on both the face and body Featuring our patented MVE Technology to release a steady stream of moisturizing ingredients throughout the day and night.
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle, non-irritating formula
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Note: Oil-based creams should not be used on your face unless you have excessive dryness. But they’re ideal for dry skin on your hands, feet, and legs.
Are you unsure about or need advice when choosing cream vs lotion for your skin?
