What is a Cream?
A cream is a semisolid pharmaceutical preparation generally intended for application to the skin or other suitable external surfaces. Many creams are emulsified systems containing an aqueous and an oily phase.
Types
- Oil-in-water creams
- Water-in-oil creams
Common Components
- Oil phase
- Water phase
- Emulsifying agents
- Humectants
- Preservatives
- Active pharmaceutical ingredient
Important Properties
A well-designed cream should have appropriate consistency, spreadability, physical stability, drug uniformity, and compatibility with the intended site of application.
Pharmaceutical Applications
Creams are commonly used for topical delivery of drugs intended to act locally on the skin.
Quick Revision
Creams are semisolid preparations, commonly emulsified systems, used mainly for topical application.