Preparation of Creams

• Creams are semi-solid topical preparations that consist of an emulsion of oil and water.

• They are generally less greasy and more easily absorbed than ointments, making them a popular choice for various skin conditions and cosmetic applications.

• Creams provide a balance between occlusion and hydration, making them suitable for a wide range of uses.

Preparation:

• Creams are typically prepared using one of two methods, depending on whether they are oil-in-water (O/W) or water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions:

Preparation of Creams

Oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions:

• These creams have a higher proportion of water and a lower proportion of oil.

• The oil phase is dispersed in the water phase, with the help of an emulsifying agent.

• O/W creams are usually prepared by heating the oil and water phases separately, then slowly adding the oil phase to the water phase while mixing continuously.

Water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions:

• These creams have a higher proportion of oil and a lower proportion of water.

• The water phase is dispersed in the oil phase, with the help of an emulsifying agent.

• W/O creams are prepared by heating the oil and water phases separately, then slowly adding the water phase to the oil phase while mixing continuously.

Types:

Creams can be classified based on their emulsion type and the type of active ingredients they contain:

1. Oil-in-water (O/W) creams:

2. Water-in-oil (W/O) creams:

Uses:

Creams have a wide range of uses in dermatology, cosmetics, and other medical applications, including:

1. Moisturization:

2. Protection: W/O

3. Wound care:

4. Pain relief: