At Venice Apothecary & Compounding Pharmacy, we are dedicated to creating custom compounded medications tailored to your unique needs — including creams and ointments. While they may seem similar, there are important differences between the two, and choosing the right base can significantly impact the effectiveness of your treatment.
What’s the Difference Between Creams and Ointments?
- Ointments are oil-based, thicker, and more occlusive. They create a protective barrier on the skin, helping to lock in moisture and deliver medication over a longer period.
- Creams are typically a mix of oil and water, making them lighter, easier to spread, and faster to absorb. They often feel less greasy than ointments and are better for larger surface areas.
| Feature | Ointments | Creams |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Oil-based | Oil and water mixture |
| Feel | Thick, greasy | Light, non-greasy |
| Absorption | Slower, longer-lasting | Faster absorption |
| Best For | Dry, cracked, or thickened skin | Moist or sensitive areas |
| Common Uses | Chronic skin conditions, wounds, hemorrhoids | Acute rashes, cosmetic applications, and hormone therapy |
When Are Ointments Used?
Ointments are ideal for:
- Severely dry or cracked skin
- Psoriasis and eczema
- Wound care to promote healing and protect the skin
- Hemorrhoids and anal fissures
- Localized pain management through medicated ointments
- Veterinary medicine for treating skin infections or hot spots in pets
Because they are thicker and more occlusive, ointments are especially useful when moisture retention and longer medication contact time are needed.
When Are Creams Used?
Creams are often preferred for:
- Acute rashes and dermatitis
- Hormone replacement therapy (such as estrogen or testosterone creams)
- Cosmetic or anti-aging treatments
- Mild to moderate skin irritation where a lighter feel is preferred
- Large areas of skin where quick absorption is beneficial
Creams are less greasy, making them more comfortable for day-to-day use, particularly under clothing.
Why Custom Compound Creams and Ointments?
At Venice Apothecary & Compounding Pharmacy, we customize every compounded cream or ointment based on:
- Specific medication strengths
- Multiple active ingredients in one preparation
- Allergen-free bases (no parabens, dyes, preservatives, or gluten)
- Customized texture and absorption rate depending on patient preference
Every formulation is compounded with precision to ensure maximum therapeutic benefit and patient satisfaction.
Every formulation is compounded with precision to ensure maximum therapeutic benefit and patient satisfaction.
- Trusted by healthcare providers throughout Venice, Nokomis, Osprey, North Port, Englewood, and surrounding communities
- Highly trained compounding pharmacists who focus on personalized, high-quality care
- Free statewide shipping for your convenience
At Venice Apothecary & Compounding Pharmacy, we work closely with your provider to ensure you receive the perfect formulation — whether a cream, ointment, or another customized solution — to help you heal, feel better, and thrive.
Have questions about which option is right for you?
Call us at (941) 485-8205 or visit www.VeniceApothecary.net today!