Balms, Ointments, Creams & Salves - What's in a name?

In a recent interview, I was asked how to avoid getting stuck in a rut as a business owner. Part of my reply was that you should challenge yourself every day by learning something new.

Today, I am researching the difference between a Balm, an Ointment, a Cream and a Salve. All of these products appear to contain moisturizing ingredients, but their technical uses are very, very different.

A Balm (also called liniment) is traditionally a medicated topical preparation to be applied to the skin. The viscosity (thickness) of a balm is somewhere between that of a lotion and a cream or ointment. However, unlike a lotion, a balm requires friction and must be rubbed or massaged into the skin for proper application. Most balms or liniments are sold to relieve pain and stiffness such as sore muscles or arthritis and are typically formulated with fast-evaporating solvents such as alcohol or counterirritants such as menthol or capsaicin. (This definition excludes Lip Balm which will be discussed in another post).

An Ointment is a semisolid product generally consisting of 80% Oils and 20% Water to provide a barrier on the skin which prevents moisture-loss. An ointment may or may not be medicated. They are used as emollients or for the application of active ingredients (such as herbal infusions, tinctures or medications) to the skin for protective or therapeutic purposes. Ointments allow slower delivery of active ingredients as the lower percentage of water content prevents excessive evaporation.

A Cream is a semi-solid emulsion of oil and water in approximately equal proportions which penetrates the outer layer of skin. Creams are generally applied with ones fingers or palms. Creams are easy to apply but may be inappropriate for application to regions of hairy skin such as the scalp, while a lotion is less viscous and may be readily applied to these areas. Creams create a barrier on the skin, help skin retain moisture and help to soften and smooth skin.

A Salve is an ointment, cream or balm with soothing, healing or calming effects. Generally, salves are used as an adhesive substance for application to wounds or sores.

So, while all for of these products create varying levels of a barrier on the skin, the purpose of the barrier is not necessarily the same. It is important to note that Balms, Ointments and Salves may all be associated with the delivery of medications or other drugs. If you are using active ingredients that fall into this category, your product may be regulated by the FDA as a Drug rather than a Cosmetic. This can create an issue if you are making claims about a product that you have not proven through proper testing and certification. The simple act of naming your product can create an issue if the end user will "imply" a specific use for the product (even if that implication is made in name only). Keep this in mind when naming your products and remember, if you can't PROVE it, you can't CLAIM it.

Allison B. Kontur
www.BathBodySupply.com