The difference between cream and lotion Which one is more important?

What is the difference between cream and lotion? Many people are very cautious in choosing skin care products, and they also need skills in using facial creams and lotions. So, let’s take a look at it together.

Difference between cream and lotion

1. Difference in texture

From the appearance, lotion is liquid and cream is paste. In terms of spreadability and absorption speed, the former is obviously superior. This is mainly because the water content of lotion is relatively high, it is easy to spread, easy to absorb, and can quickly penetrate into the skin; while the nutrients in cream are richer, it is often more viscous, and occasionally has a heavy and sticky feeling, so you need to pay special attention to this when choosing.

2. The difference between function and usage

Lotion: In addition to containing the same ingredients as creams, the biggest feature of lotion-type products is their high water content. The water content of lotion is one or two times more than that of the same cream. When applied to the skin, it can not only quickly replenish moisture for the skin, but also build a layer of moist sebum film for the skin to prevent moisture loss. This "moisture-locking function" is one of the most important functions of lotion, and this is also the secret why lotion products are most suitable for dry skin.

Face cream: After conditioning your skin with toner, apply the cream to 5 areas of your face: cheeks, forehead, above the nose, and chin, then spread it gently little by little. This not only puts less burden on the skin, but also allows the entire face to be evenly coated. For areas with more severe dryness, you can apply a layer of lotion first and then apply the cream, which will have a better effect.

3. Differences in timing of use

Lotion is suitable for use in all seasons because of its light texture, refreshing touch and easier absorption by the skin. Cream is completely unsuitable for use in summer because it contains a lot of oil and has a strong moisturizing effect. It is usually a boon for dry skin, but oily skin stays away from it. The current cold winter season should be a good time for facial cream to play the greatest effect, so you can choose according to your needs; lotion should be a regular item in the home, suitable for all seasons, and more cost-effective. If you feel particularly dry in this season, you can apply a layer of cream on top of the lotion to lock in skin moisture and enhance moisturizing.

4. Suitable for people

Lotions are usually light and refreshing, suitable for summer, daytime use and normal, combination and oily skin types. The texture of facial cream is generally rich and the moisturizing effect is very significant. It is suitable for winter, dry, normal skin and night use. Of course there are also creams with gel-like textures that are very refreshing and suitable for all skin types, but they are very special and are usually as mentioned above. So you should choose according to the season and skin type. If you have normal, oily or combination skin (which is most people), a lotion may be better for you than a cream. But if you have dry skin, cream is more moisturizing.