Lotion Definition
Lotion is a low-viscosity topical preparation intended for application to the skin. It is a mixture of oil and water, with the key components being the aqueous and oily phases, an emulsifier to prevent separation of these two phases, and, if used, the drug substance or substances. Lotions are applied to the external skin with bare hands, a brush, a clean cloth, or cotton wool. While a lotion may be used as a medicine delivery system, many lotions, especially hand lotions and body lotions, are meant instead to simply smooth, moisturize, soften and, sometimes, perfume the skin.
Ingredients or Materials
Lotions typically contain eight types of ingredients:
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Emollients: help maintain soft, smooth skin. Common emollients include petroleum products, glycerine, fatty acids, and plant oils.
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Humectants: draw water into the outer layer of skin. Common humectants include glycerin, lecithin, and propylene glycol.
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Occlusives: form a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. Common occlusives include dimethicone, lanolin oil, and tocopheryl acetate (Vitamin E).
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pH Adjusters: maintain the pH of the lotion. Common pH adjusters include sodium hydroxide.
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Preservatives: prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Common preservatives include alcohol denat., DMDM hydantoin, methylparaben, and propylparaben.
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Solvents: dissolve other ingredients and help them mix together. Common solvents include water and alcohol denat..
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Fragrances: add scent to the lotion. Fragrances are often added to cosmetic lotions and may be marketed as anti-aging lotions.
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Active Ingredients: provide a therapeutic effect. For example, dimethicone is a skin protectant used in some lotions.
Various other ingredients such as fragrances, glycerol, petroleum jelly, dyes, preservatives, proteins, and stabilizing agents are commonly added to lotions.
Positive and Negative Effects
Lotions can have positive effects on the skin, such as moisturizing, softening, and smoothing the skin. They can also contain active ingredients that provide therapeutic effects, such as skin protectants. However, some people may be sensitive to certain ingredients, such as fragrances, and may experience negative effects such as irritation or allergic reactions. Additionally, the environmental impact of lotion production and packaging can be negative, as lotion bottles are made from non-renewable resources such as crude oil.
In summary, lotions are low-viscosity topical preparations intended for application to the skin. They contain a mixture of oil and water, with various ingredients added to provide therapeutic effects, moisturi...
