Cream vs. Lotion: Understanding the Difference for Optimal Skin Hydration

You have most definitely gone through this beauty care confusion yourself.

Selecting between a cream and a lotion can sometimes get a little confusing. Both a cream and a lotion sound almost similar in texture and functionality.

Lotion or Cream:

Though used synonymously, these two beauty care products are very different from each other.

The primary function of both is essentially the same. Both cream and lotion are used for maintaining moisture in the outermost dermis of the skin. The skin on different parts of our body is different. Hence we have different moisturizing requirements for different areas on the body. For instance, the skin around the eyes is very delicate and sensitive. In contrast, our elbows and knees have thick skin. In addition, the type of your skin also determines your preference and need for cream or lotion.

Both cream and lotion have the same function of moisturizing the skin. But the two do this at different levels.

1. Viscosity:

The major distinction between cream and lotion is the viscosity or thickness.

Lotion:

Lotions being low viscosity (i.e. they are thinner) come in a bottle or tube. These are usually squeezed or pumped out for application. A lotion is lighter and less greasy or oily. It is therefore suitable for people with a normal skin type.

Cream:

On the other hand, a cream has high viscosity. It is a lot thicker than a lotion. A cream is generally available in a jar packaging from which it can be scooped out for easy application. Its high viscosity makes it ideal for those with dry and very dry skin type.

2. According to Body Parts:

Lotion:

A lotion works well on all areas of the body. It also works well on those areas of the body that are covered with hair. To use a lotion effectively, the skin should be only mildly dry. A lotion can also be applied on the face by those who have normal skin type.

Cream:

For skin that is excessively dry, like the skin around our elbows and heels, a cream is the most suitable form of moisturisation. Those who have very dry skin on their face may need to apply a cream.

Some Tips For Using Lotion And Cream:

• To efficiently lock moisture in your skin, apply cream or lotion on damp skin. Pat it dry. Do not rub it.
• Day time application requires lighter cream or lotion. For your night (bedtime) skin care ritual, application of slightly more viscous cream or lotion is required.

The Top 5 Creams For Normal Skin:

1. Biotique Bio Coconut Brightening and Whitening Cream

• Suitable for all skin types
• Reduces dark spots and blemishes
• Penetrates into the pores to lighten skin tone
• Contains extracts of pure virgin coconut
• Moisturises skin and gives a healthy glow

Price: INR 199

2. Olay Natural White All in One Day Cream

• Reduces dark spots
• Lightens your skin tone
• Moisturises skin to give you soft supple skin
• Contains anti-oxidant protection
• Combats hyper pigmentation
• Improves skin renewal
• Keeps your skin looking younger

Price: INR 325

3. Lakme CC Cream

• Contains SPF 20
• Acts as a moisturising cream
• Brightens skin tone
• Acts as a concealer
• Gives a naturally glowing look to skin
• Evens out skin tone

Price: INR 250

4. Nivea Cream

• One of the oldest and most loved skin care cream that has been around for ages
• Extremely moisturising
• Suitable for all skin types
• Dermatologically tested
• Protects against itchy skin

Price: INR 160

5. The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream

• Lightweight
• Super moisturising
• Suitable for all skin types
• Comes with the goodness of vitamin E
• Especially good for dry and very dry skin
• Natural and organic

Price: INR 820

The Top 5 Lotions For Normal Skin:

1. Olay Moisturising Lotion

• Absorbs easily in the skin
• Makes skin supple and firm
• Gives you instantly smooth skin
• Non greasy
• Moisturises and hydrates skin
• Dermatologically tested
• Contains glycerine, aloe and chamomile

Price: INR 210

2. Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Lightening Lotion

• Suitable for all skin types
• Smoothens skin
• Non greasy
• Hydrates skin
• Light and easily absorbing
• Lightens skin tone
• Contains pure herbal extracts
• Organic

Price: INR 280

3. Vaseline Healthy White Complete 10 Lightening and Anti-Ageing Lotion

• Moisturises skin
• Gives anti-ageing properties
• Provides skin with hydration and nourishment
• Suitable for all skin types

Price: INR 175

4. Himalaya Intensive Face Moisturising Lotion

• Extra moisturising
• Intensive nourishment
• Works great on all skin types, especially dry and very dry skin
• Non greasy
• Light and absorbs easily into the skin
• Organic

Price: INR 155

5. The Body Shop Strawberry Puree Body Lotion

• Contains extract of strawberries
• Keeps skin feeling fresh and supple
• Organic

Price: INR 585

Understand your skin requirement and decide whether you need a cream or a lotion. Take a pick from some of the most popular creams and lotions mentioned above. Or take your own pick and give your skin a healthy, soft and supple start. Do remember to tell us about the product you used and loved in the comments!