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Topical creams are a great medication option for a variety of ailments. Here is everything you need to know about topicals and how they may be able to help you.
Topicals are a mixture of ingredients applied to a particular spot on the body. They are applied to the outer skin, mucous membranes, or more delicate places. The topical is applied only to the area needing treatment. There are many varieties or classes of topicals. A standard class is called cream.
Topical creams can be purchased over-the-counter or with a prescription from a doctor.
What is a Topical Cream?
Topical creams are a mixture of oil and water for the base. They are created using two different processes but with the same ingredients. One way is called the oil-in-water emulsion, and the other is called the water-in-oil emulsion.
With the first, a few drops of oil is mixed into a continuous water phase. The second is made by dropping a few drops of water into a continuous oil phase.
The use of the topical cream will often determine which method is used. For example, if using it for cosmetic purposes, you may choose the oil-in-water version. It is lighter and easier to wash off if needed. It can be easier to apply too.
Oil-in-water topical creams feel less greasy and are quickly absorbed. This can also mean you may have to apply the cream more often than when using the water-in-oil variety.
The cream created with more oil than water help hold in moisture. The oil can act as a protective barrier to the skin. It can keep out harmful agents, like bacteria and yeast, or too much sun. It can also hold in good agents, like water and nutrients.
Depending on the manufacturer, creams can vary significantly with the ingredients added to the oil and water. It is usually white and is thick enough to hold its shape when taken out of its package.
Topical Cream Uses
Topical creams are used for a variety of reasons. The most common are created to apply steroids, moisturizers, and antibiotics.
For those with allergies or allergic reactions, like insect bites or stings, creams with steroids can help alleviate symptoms. Potency can range from mild to super. Hydrocortisone is an example of a topical cream with steroids.
Topical creams can provide relief from:
- Inflammation
- Itching
- Swelling
- Stinging
- Pain relief, and more
Certain skin conditions, like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, can be healed using topical creams. Also, they can aid in eliminating yeast infections and replace hormones if needed. Creams can reduce rosacea, acne, and hemorrhoids.
Aiding in relief from the above conditions is not the only reason to choose a topical cream.
Why Choose a Topical Cream?
Topical creams are easy to apply and, for most, are easy to tolerate. To apply a cream, you can typically use the tip of a finger or q-tip to scoop out the desired amount. Then, place the cream on the skin and rub it in until all is absorbed.
Creams work well when treating wet skin conditions or wounds that are oozing. It also takes less cream to cover more area when compared to ointments.
Creams are like lotions but thicker. They are pharmaceutical formula products. Meaning, a pharmacist can adjust the thickness to meet your preferences. They can even add scents or coloring.
A benefit of using a topical cream is that if you don’t like taking an oral medication, this is an alternative. Other benefits include fewer digestive problems, quick relief time, and it is less likely to be abused.
Pharmacists use the base mixture of cream to add the medicine you need to resolve medical issues. They do this through a process called compounding.
Compounded Topical Creams
Compounding is a process that starts with a prescription sent from your doctor to your pharmacist. The pharmacist then combines the active ingredients and the correct dose of medicine while also investigating specific factors about you and your life. For example, your pharmacist will consider the medication you are already taken and whether it may interact with the cream.
There are times with commercially produced topical creams include inactive ingredients that are not suitable for everyone. Compounding helps you get those medicinal ingredients but with more compatible inactive solutions.
Commercially produced items can be in short supply, like during the global pandemic of COVID-19. It’s nice to have a pharmacist who can create the product for you on-site in such cases.
Pharmacists who compound topical creams make sure the ingredients will not create allergic reactions or adverse side effects. They can also teach you safety tips and how to administer the cream properly.
Safety Tips for Using Topical Creams
Like all medications, you must use them according to safety guidelines. Only apply the cream to the area that needs it. In other words, use as directed by your physician and pharmacist. Do not let anyone else use your medicine.
Pay attention to potential side effects. If you notice side effects, discontinue use and contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Side effects can include worsening of the condition, inflammation, and changes in skin color. Other side effects can be explained to you by the pharmacist. Before your consultation, develop a list of questions.
Consult with Your Pharmacist
Educate yourself on what you put on or in your body. Pharmacists are experts and can give you the knowledge you need to get the most benefit from your topical cream medication.
Information you should get from your pharmacist includes the:
- Medication’s name
- Why it is prescribed
- How it works
- When to take it
Also, find out how often and for how long you should apply the cream.
If you take vitamins, minerals, prescribed, or non-prescribed medications, ask the pharmacist about potential interactions.
Topical creams are, for the most part, harmless. Talking to your pharmacist gives you an advantage when using products, whether compounded or not.
If you have questions about topical creams or any medication, don’t wait to reach out to your local pharmacist. You can call or visit in person to get answers. You can even get in touch today. Your pharmacist is eager to help.
