Topical formulations are applied directly to the skin. Topical formulations are made up in a vehicle, or base, which may be optimised for a particular site of the body or type of skin condition. The product may be designed to be moisturising or to maximise the penetration of an active ingredient, a medicine, into or through the skin.

Cream – Emulsion of water and oil. It is classified as oil in water (spreads easily and do not leave the skin greasy and sticky) or water in oil (more greasy and more emollient) emulsions. Creams contain emulsifiers and preservatives which may cause contact allergy. Used on moist and dry skin.

Ointment (greasy, sticky, retains sweat) – Semi-solid preparations of hydrocarbons (petrolatum, mineral oil, paraffins). It is useful in dry skin conditions. Provides a protective film on the skin. Contains no water and does not require a preservative.Paste – Is a mixture of powder and ointment. Addition of powder improves porosity. Used on dry and scaly skin.

Lotion – An oil in water emulsion with a higher water content to give the preparation a liquid consistency. Most lotions are aqueous or hydroalcoholic systems. Lotions are easy to apply to large areas and are non-sticky and not drying. Lotions are suitable for hair areas, skin prone to folliculitis and intertriginous areas.

Gel – Transparent preparations containing cellulose ethers or carbromer in water or water-alcohol mixture. Gels liquefy on contact with the skin, dry and leave a thin film of active medication. Gels tend to be drying and are useful in hairy areas.