We all know the terms "cream" and "balm" and use at least one product regularly in our everyday lives. We know that both body care products can moisturize and protect our skin. But what exactly is the difference and which product is the right one for my skin or my needs?
In this article, we will answer this question and also provide you with insightful findings.
3. What does the term “balm for the soul” mean?
4. Cream vs balm - the differences at a glance
What is a cream?
Let's start with the classic, the cream. A so-called cream is characterized by its fairly balanced ratio of moisture (water) and fat. While the composition can vary depending on the skin type, the main ingredient, i.e. the first substance in the ingredients list (also called the INCI list), remains water. Since water and fat do not combine easily, so-called emulsifiers are needed to combine the water and the oil/fat phase. Together, the three components (water, oil and emulsifiers) form an emulsion, i.e. a cream. This is also called an OW emulsion, i.e. an oil-in-water emulsion. Emulsifiers can be of plant or synthetic origin. We use plant emulsifiers for our creams.
Creams are generally good for quick moisturizing, are often easy to spread and are quickly absorbed. Depending on the ingredients added, creams can also protect against sunburn, reduce signs of skin aging and promote wound healing.
Did you know that our skin also produces its own emulsion every day? The skin's own fat, which has emulsifying properties, is combined with moisture, such as sweat, to form a skin-protecting emulsion. It's impressive what our body can do!
What is a balm?
Compared to a cream, a balm has a much higher lipid content, i.e. fat content. The exact composition can vary here too, but oils or fats usually dominate the list of ingredients. Water, if included at all, often only appears at the end of the INCI list and is therefore only included in a small proportion. Unlike a cream (OW emulsion), this is a WO emulsion, i.e. a water-in-oil emulsion. If water is included in the recipe, emulsifiers must also be used to combine the two substances.A balm is particularly suitable for deep care of dry skin areas such as hands, joints, heels - or lips. Another great thing about products with a high fat content is that they can form a protective layer on the skin and protect against the cold, for example. Another advantage over a cream is that fewer preservatives usually need to be used in a balm.
And what does the term “balm for the soul” mean?
Since applying a balm provides rich, deep care, the phrase figuratively means a beneficial and strengthening effect on one's own psyche. These can be kind words from a friend, but art and songs can also be described as balm for the soul.Cream vs. balm - the differences at a glance
In summary, a cream and a balm differ in their water content. A balm has a higher fat content than a cream - this also explains the two different consistencies.
Our rich med balm is suitable for very sensitive skin, also as a wind and weather balm for young and old. Particularly stressed areas benefit from the quickly absorbed care.
Our med base cream provides you with an extra portion of moisture. The base cream has a soothing effect, especially on dry, itchy skin.
We wish you happy applying cream!
OUR EXPERT
Dr. med Michaela Hagemann I boep founder, doctor & mother of three
