
We mentioned above that many creams are water-based moisturizers. However, if a cream contains a higher concentration of oil than water, it is classified as an oil-based moisturizer. Ointments have a high concentration of oil (compared to creams), which means they are thick, greasy, and occlusive.
What are water-based lotions and creams?
If they're water-based, they're an emulsion of oil into water. Most lotions and creams are water-based, but water-in-oil emulsions are also on the market [source: Cosmetics and Toiletries].
What is the difference between water-based moisturizer and cream?
The term “water-based moisturizer” actually may refer to a water cream, lotion, or gel. The primary difference between these products is the amount of water in each, which subsequently affects the texture. Creams have the least amount of water and thus have a thicker consistency than both lotions and gels.
Is your cream made of oil and water or layers?
Yet nearly every cream/ointment on the store shelves, from hand lotions to fungal creams to hair conditioner, is comprised of both oil and water. When these products are opened, the consumer is faced with a single homogenous mixture and no separation of layers.
What are the different types of oil-in-water creams?
They are divided into two types: oil-in-water (O/W) creams which are composed of small droplets of oil dispersed in a continuous water phase, and water-in-oil (W/O) creams which are composed of small droplets of water dispersed in a continuous oily phase.

How do I know if a cream is water based?
If you are ever curious if a moisturizer is oil or water-based, look no further than the list of ingredients on the packaging. If the main ingredient is listed as water, it's a moisturizer that is considered water-based.
Do all creams have water?
We mentioned above that many creams are water-based moisturizers. However, if a cream contains a higher concentration of oil than water, it is classified as an oil-based moisturizer. Ointments have a high concentration of oil (compared to creams), which means they are thick, greasy, and occlusive.
What are water based creams?
Water-based moisturizers are a popular alternative to their oil-based counterparts. Simply put, they employ water as the main ingredient into which the other, water-attracting humectant ingredients are mixed. This helps to achieve hydration from within the skin as opposed to sealing in moisture from the outside.
Is Nivea water based?
NIVEA Creme is a water-in-oil emulsion. That means it contains many water droplets embedded in oil. As a result, your skin first receives intensive care from the outer oil phase and then is supplied with moisture. In contrast, NIVEA Soft is an oil-in-water emulsion: Small oil droplets are embedded in water.
Are creams water or oil based?
Most lotions and creams are water-based, but water-in-oil emulsions are also on the market [source: Cosmetics and Toiletries]. We can define lotions and creams just like the oil you put in your car -- by their viscosity, or how thick the product is. Lotions are low viscosity, which means they're thinner.
Is Vaseline lotion water based?
Colour, Texture & Smell. It is a white coloured opaque, water based body lotion. It is literally non greasy, I do not feel even a hint of oil/greasiness in this body lotion.
Are gel moisturizers water based?
A gel moisturizer is water based and usually free of oils, which can be especially beneficial for those with oily skin (more on that later), according to Northwestern Medicine. Some formulations include oil, though in lower quantities than you'd find in traditional moisturizers, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Is E45 water based?
Examples of water-based gels include Oralieve, BioXtra and Biotene. E45 cream is classified as a low paraffin product, containing 27.1% paraffin. An alternative terminology for white soft paraffin is petroleum jelly.
Is hyaluronic acid water based?
It makes sense, when you think about it: Hyaluronic acid doesn't contain any water itself, so the more moisture you combine it with, the better it performs. Think of your regimen as a hydration "sandwich" — spritz your face with water or a facial mist, apply the hyaluronic acid treatment, then spritz again.
Is CeraVe cream water based?
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser An oldie but a goldie, everyone loves the gentle formulations from CeraVe. This particular water-based cleanser also uses hyaluronic acid to prevent dryness and three types of ceramides to buff away dirt, grime and product build up without stripping the skin.
Is Nivea cream a water based moisturizer?
NIVEA Creme is a water-in-oil emulsion. That means it contains many water droplets embedded in oil. As a result, your skin first receives intensive care from the outer oil phase and then is supplied with moisture. In contrast, NIVEA Soft is an oil-in-water emulsion: Small oil droplets are embedded in water.
Why is Nivea cream so thick?
The majority of the Nivea Creme formula consists of occlusives like mineral oil, petrolatum, lanolin alcohol, and paraffin. These ingredients create a physical barrier on top of the skin. They feel thick and heavy after application since they are not absorbed into the skin.
What is the main ingredient in a water based moisturizer?
As you can probably guess, the main ingredient in a water based moisturizer is water. Some of this water will soak into the skin when you apply the moisturizer, but some will evaporate. To prevent evaporation, water based moisturizers will often include one or several humectant ingredients.
What is the best moisturizer for dehydrated skin?
A water based moisturizer is best for those with dehydrated skin that is in need of moisture. Ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid are often used in water based moisturizers, and they can deliver powerful hydration to dehydrated skin.
What is the difference between a moisturizer and a moisturizer?
Once again, the main difference between these moisturizers is the amount of oil and the texture.
What is non-comedogenic moisturizer?
If you have oily or acne prone skin, the most important thing to look for when choosing an oil based moisturizer is “non-comedogenic ”, which means it will not clog pores. Examples of non-comedogenic oil based ingredients include jojoba oil, linoleic acid, argan oil, and grapeseed oil.
How to tell if moisturizer is oil based?
You can easily tell if a moisturizer is water or oil based by looking at the ingredient list. If the first ingredient is water, it is a water based moisturizer. If the first ingredient is an oil, such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, it is an oil based moisturizer.
What is the most important thing to consider when choosing a moisturizer?
One of the most important factors to consider before choosing a moisturizer is whether your skin is dry or dehydrated. You may think that these two words are synonyms, but they actually indicate two different skin conditions. Dry skin means that your skin produces less sebum than normal.
Which has the least amount of water?
Creams have the least amount of water and thus have a thicker consistency than both lotions and gels. A water-gel moisturizer contains a high water content, which makes them lightweight and much thinner than creams and lotions.
What is the effect of a water based moisturizer?
The effect is skin that’s smooth, bright, and glowy AF. The ingredient list on this water-based moisturizer reads like a dream for your thirsty, dry skin. Hyaluronic acid, rose water, and vitamin E work together to keep your skin hydrated all day long.
What is the best moisturizer for dry skin?
The aloe vera and cactus extract help calm irritation and inflammation while giving your skin a dose of much-needed moisture. Packed with probiotics, ginger extract, and red seaweed, this all-natural, water-based moisturizer works literal magic on your face.
What are the ingredients in Sketchy?
Sketchy ingredients like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, silicones, and mineral oil. Instead, it’s filled with natural plant extracts that smooth, brighten, and moisturize your skin. 5. Best Vegan Water Based Moisturizer.
Does water based moisturizer dry out skin?
But don’t worry, just because the formula is matte doesn’t mean it’ll dry out your skin. It’s formulated with glycerin and thermal spring water to keep you moisturized.
What is a water based moisturizer?
Water-based moisturizers are a popular alternative to their oil-based counterparts. Simply put, they employ water as the main ingredient into which the other, water-attracting humectant ingredients are mixed. This helps to achieve hydration from within the skin as opposed to sealing in moisture from the outside.
What is hydrating gel moisturizer?
This hydrating gel moisturizer contains anti-aging and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and B3 vitamins that penetrate the skin to condition from the inside out.
How long does hyaluronic acid hydrate skin?
A 30% concentration of hyaluronic acid at three different molecular sizes has the ability to hydrate the skin for up to 72 hours. Ceramides also help to lock in even more moisture.
What is Sophie Turner's moisturizer?
Sophie Turner is a fan of this ultra-lightweight moisturizer, which deploys cactus water to nourish and impart heavy-hitting hydration without clogging the pores.
What is the ingredient in Saturday Skin?
Another aptly named water-cream option, this one by Saturday Skin uses mineral-rich Alaska glacier water as its main ingredient. From there, a peptide formula and soothing moss keep the skin calm and balanced.
Is Neutrogena water gel oil free?
This oil-free water gel offering from Neutrogena feels refreshing and cool on application. Don't let the lightweight consistency fool you, hyaluronic acid and olive extract make it a deeply moisturizing option.
Is Hero moisturizer non-comedogenic?
Hero ingredients hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamides make sure this non-comedogenic formula moisturizes all day long. Plus, the added SPF protects from the sun's harmful rays.
What is Klorane water cream?
Infused with pure cornflower water and plant-based hyaluronic acid , its non-greasy, gel-cream texture sinks effortlessly into the skin upon contact, delivering a wash of soothing moisture and increased radiance. The result is skin that feels featherlight, refreshed, and totally balanced.
Is Caudalie's Grape Water a water based product?
Organic aloe vera and Caudalie's signature prebiotic Grape Water™ (also organic) are the stars behind this luxe, water-based formula. Together, they help envelop dehydrated skin in a layer of long-lasting hydration that instantly renews your complexion's bounce and natural radiance. Even better? It delivers a supple, skin-softening finish without the use of potentially pore-clogging silicones, making it a win-win for acne-prone skin.
Does Dermalogica have water gel?
If your skin is dry and reactive, Dermalogica's Calm Water Gel Moisturizer may be your ticket to a happier complexion. This weightless gel formula softens, soothes, and replenishes moisture levels on contact, all while forming a protective barrier around your skin to help prevent pollution and irritants from getting in. In addition to two molecular sizes of hyaluronic acid, it also includes apple fruit extract to soften skin and glycerin to provide deep, skin-quenching hydration without any signs of greasiness.
Is Murad water gel a moisturizer?
Oily and acne-prone skin types, rejoice. Murad Clarifying Water Gel is a non-comedogenic moisturizer that delivers essential hydration without clogging your pores or leaving behind a greasy feel. The secret to its skin-balancing powers? A potent dose of exfoliating salicylic acid to help treat and prevent blemishes and hyaluronic acid, which provides intensive, long-lasting hydration and plumpness.
Is Klairs water gel cream vegan?
For skin that appears refreshed and plumped with hydration, we recommend Klairs' Fundamental Water Gel Cream. This popular K-beauty formula is packed with antioxidant-rich Jeju green tea water and panthenol to help calm and moisturize skin for a comfortable, dewy finish. We also love that it's vegan and cruel ty-free, and hydrating enough that even dry skin types can use it.
Does Tatcha have a water based moisturizer?
While Tatcha may not have invented water-based moisturizers, it certainly inspired European and American brands to rethink their approach to moisturizers, and we couldn't be more thankful for it. Like a tall drink of water, this cooling gel absorbs quickly into the skin to deliver a refreshing burst of moisture and antioxidant-rich extracts that instantly plump, refine, and smooth the skin's appearance. Non-greasy and sensitive skin-friendly, this award-winning cream also features a blend of potent Japanese botanicals that help reduce the look of pores and restore skin radiance for a subtle, shine-free glow that lasts throughout the day.
Is water based moisturizer safe for blemishes?
So what's the solution? Easy, it's all about infusing your skin with lightweight, non-pore-clogging hydration and the best way to do that is with a water-based moisturizer. Thanks to their oil-free formulas and light , breathable textures, these creams are not only safe for blemish-prone skin but also super hydrating, making them an excellent option for those with normal and combination skin as well.
What is oil in water cream?
Creams are semi-solid emulsions of oil and water. They are divided into two types: oil-in-water (O/W) creams which are composed of small droplets of oil dispersed in a continuous water phase, and water-in-oil (W/O) creams which are composed of small droplets of water dispersed in a continuous oily phase. Oil-in-water creams are more comfortable and cosmetically acceptable as they are less greasy and more easily washed off using water. Water-in-oil creams are more difficult to handle but many drugs which are incorporated into creams are hydrophobic and will be released more readily from a water-in-oil cream than an oil-in-water cream. Water-in-oil creams are also more moisturising as they provide an oily barrier which reduces water loss from the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin.
What is the phase of cream?
creams - consist of a lipophilic phase and an aqueous phase . There are lipophilic (W/O) and hydrophilic (O/W) creams, depending on the continuous phase.
What are lipophilic gels?
There are lipophilic gels (oleogels) and Hydrophilic gels (hydrogels). pastes - contain large proportions of solids finely dispersed in the basis. poultices - consist of a hydrophilic heat-retentive basis in which solids or liquids are dispersed.
What is an emollient cream?
Emollient effects. As a vehicle for drug substances such as local anaesthetics, anti-inflammatories ( NSAIDs or corticosteroids ), hormones, antibiotics, antifungals or counter-irritants. Creams are semisolid dosage forms containing more than 20% water or volatile components and typically less than 50% hydrocarbons, waxes, or polyols as vehicles. ...
What is topical powder?
topical powders - consist of solid, loose, dry particles of varying degrees of fineness.
Is cold cream a fluid?
They may also contain one or more drug substances dissolved or dispersed in a suitable cream base. This term has traditionally been applied to semisolids that possess a relatively fluid consistency formulated as either water-in-oil (e.g., cold cream ) or oil-in-water (e.g., fluocinolone acetonide cream) emulsions.
Is oil in water better than water in cream?
Oil-in- water creams are more comfortable and cosmetically acceptable as they are less greasy and more easily washed off using water. Water-in-oil creams are more difficult to handle but many drugs which are incorporated into creams are hydrophobic and will be released more readily from a water-in-oil cream than an oil-in-water cream.
What does it mean when lotion is oil based?
If they're oil-based, that means that they're an emulsion, or mixture, of water into oil. If they're water-based, they're an emulsion of oil into water. Most lotions and creams are water-based, but water-in-oil emulsions are also on the market [source: Cosmetics and Toiletries ]. Advertisement. We can define lotions and creams just like ...
What is the purpose of moisturizing lotions?
All moisturizing skin care products have the same goal -- to keep moisture, or water, in the outermost layer of your skin. Lotions and creams do this, but they do so at different levels. Both lotions and creams can be oil-based or water-based. If they're oil-based, that means that they're an emulsion, or mixture, of water into oil.
How to keep your skin from losing water?
Experts suggest using a lotion or cream immediately after showering in order to lock in moisture from the shower in your skin and create a barrier that stops you from losing water quickly. Lotions work well on areas of the body that are covered in hair, such as the scalp, or any area affected by mild dryness, such as rough patches on elbows or feet. Creams also work well on these areas, but only if they're affected more severely by dry skin. And unless your face is extremely dry, you probably don't need to use a cream on it -- lotion should work just fine [source: Mayo Clinic ].
Why do people use lotions?
For these reasons, people with normal skin probably only need to use lotion to keep their skin moisturized. Creams are high viscosity, meaning they're a lot thicker than lotions.
Why do you use lotion after showering?
Experts suggest using a lotion or cream immediately after showering in order to lock in moisture from the shower in your skin and create a barrier that stops you from losing water quickly.
Is lotion the same as cream?
Lotions and creams -- they all do the same thing, right? Not necessarily: While lotions and creams are both moisturizers and work to keep your skin feeling soft and smooth, they are slightly different, and one may be better than the other for certain skin types.
What is O/W in creams?
Oil-in-Water (o/w) Emulsions. Prepared by suspending oil droplets in an aqueous phase, o/w emulsions are found in most moisturizers (both day and night creams) and topical steroid products. Homogenized milk, although classified as a food product, is one of the most well-known o/w emulsion.
How are W/O emulsions prepared?
In contrast to o/w, w/o emulsions are prepared by dispersing water droplets in an oil solution. Depending on the oil’s properties (e.g. viscosity and density), four distinct types of w/o emulsions exist, and range in stability. Most makeup products and sunscreen are w/o emulsions; additionally, it forms the base for dry/sensitive skin treatments due to its milder nature and ability to leave the skin’s lipid bilayer intact. (3)
What are some examples of W/O emulsions?
Sorbitan stearate, lecithin, lanolin/lanolin alcohols, and glyceryl monooleate are some examples of viable w/o emulsifiers. Comparatively, o/w emulsions do not have the limitation of hydrophilic balance so confer a wider selection of emulsifiers.
How many emulsifiers are needed for a W/O emulsion?
In contrast to o/w emulsions, w/o emulsions only require one emulsifier to achieve stability; however, because the hydrophilic balance must be within a range of approximately 3-6, there is a limited number of emulsifiers to select from.
Do you need a homogenizer for a W/O emulsion?
No matter which you choose, however, you will require a homogenizer to synthesize your w/o or o/w emulsion. The homogenizer will shear fluid by forcing it through a restrictive valve, forming a high-quality emulsion.
Is sunscreen a lipid?
Most makeup products and sunscreen are w/o emulsions; additionally, it forms the base for dry/sensitive skin treatments due to its milder nature and ability to leave the skin’s lipid bilayer intact. (3)
Do all emulsions need an emulsifier?
All emulsions, whether o/w or w/o, require an emulsifier to provide them with stability; o/w emulsions often require more than one emulsifier for optimal stability, but a variety of emulsifiers exist to suit this function.

What Is A Water – Based Moisturizer?
What Is An Oil-Based Moisturizer?
- With an oil-based moisturizer, all of the ingredients are dissolved in an oil base. You can easily tell if a moisturizer is water or oil-based by looking at the ingredient list. If the first ingredient is water, it is a water-based moisturizer. If the first ingredient is an oil, such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, it is an oil-based moisturizer. An oil-based moisturizer may refer to a thick cream, ointment, b…
Is One Formulation Better Than The other?
- Now that you know the difference between an oil and water-based moisturizer, you may be wondering if one formulation is better than the other. The answer to this question isn’t a simple yes or no. Rather, the formulation you choose depends on your skin type and what type of condition you are treating. One of the most important factors to consider before choosing a moi…
Who Should Use A Water-Based Moisturizer?
- A water based moisturizer is best for those with dehydrated skin that is in need of moisture. Ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid are often used in water based moisturizers, and they can deliver powerful hydration to dehydrated skin. Plus, these water based ingredients can provide temporary anti-aging benefits. This is because the extra hydration is extra volume, whic…
Who Should Use An Oil-Based Moisturizer?
- An oil-based moisturizer is best for those with dry skin that has a damaged barrier or lacks sebum. The oil-based ingredients will help to replenish the skin’s barrier function. Many oils also contain vitamins and fatty acids that impart anti-aging benefits. For instance, rosehip seed oil contains provitamin A, mostly as beta carotene. Beta carotene has the ability to increase cell tur…
What Is The Best Water-Based Moisturizer For face?
- Our pick for the best water based moisturizer for face is Formulyst Super Hyaluronic Water Moisturizer. This lightweight formula features hyaluronic acid, the key molecule involved in skin hydration. Hyaluronic acid helps boost your skin’s natural nourishing powers by attracting atmospheric moisture and transforming it into intense hydration for your skin. Even though it is …