Creams, balms, butters and face oils are the most popular products used to nourish and protect the skin.
So, what is the difference between them?
When should I choose one over the other?
And does it even matter at all?
Whilst creams, balms, butters and face oils are all products designed to provide moisture and hydration to the skin, they differ in texture, ingredients and application methods.
Let’s explore the main differences, and help you to choose the one that is most suited to your skin’s needs!
Creams
Let’s start with the most common and well-known type of skincare product out there: Creams!
Creams typically contain a mix of water and oil based ingredients, creating a formula that is both hydrating and nourishing for the skin. Generally, they are easy to apply and absorb quickly.
Creams help to moisturise the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and help to sooth irritated skin.
Creams come in a variety of formulations to suit different skin types and concerns. They’re generally suitable for all skin types, although those with very oily skin will benefit from a lighter formulation.
Creams can be used as a daily moisturiser or be applied as needed to areas of dryness or irritation.
If you’re looking for a face cream for daily use, or to apply to areas of dryness or irritation, you may wish to try one of the below in Melvory’s range:
Balms
Balms are becoming increasingly popular in the skincare world!
They are similar to creams in that they are designed to moisturise and nourish the skin.
The main difference between Creams and Balms is that Balms have a thicker, more emollient texture.
Balms are typically made with a higher concentration of oils and waxes than creams, giving them a richer consistency that feels luxurious on the skin.
Balms are particularly effective for hydrating dry and flaky skin, as they create a protective barrier that helps to lock in moisture.
They can also be used to soothe and protect the skin after exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as wind and cold temperatures.
Balms are generally best suited to dry or mature skin, as their rich texture may be too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin.
If you’re looking for a balm, Melvory has created two different formulations within our range:
Fun fact: Did you know that our Baby Bum Balm can also be used as an all over body moisturiser for people of all ages?
Butters
Butters (with its very delicious name!) are very similar to balms, but with an even richer and more emollient texture! Basically, it’s the next level balm.
They are made with a high concentration of natural oils and butters, such as shea butter, cocoa butter, or mango butter, which gives them a thick and creamy consistency.
Butters are particularly effective for nourishing and hydrating very dry or rough skin, as they provide intense moisture and nourishment.
Like balms, butters are generally best suited to dry or mature skin types, although they can be used by anyone who needs extra hydration and nourishment.
They can be applied to the skin as a daily moisturizer, or used as an intensive treatment for areas of dryness or irritation.
Our butters are some of our best selling products!
You may wish to try one of the below to see why so many people love them:
Oils
Face oils, body oils and oil serums have become increasingly popular in recent years.
These are made by combining a variety of natural oils, such as jojoba oil, argan oil, or rosehip oil, which are known for their nourishing and hydrating properties.
Face oils are typically lightweight and fast-absorbing, making them ideal for use as a daily moisturizer or as a pre-makeup primer.
Face oils are particularly effective for those with dry or mature skin, as they provide deep hydration and nourishment without feeling heavy or greasy. They can also be used to soothe and protect the skin after exposure to the sun or other environmental stressors.
Did you Know Oils are Great to Use as an Eye Serum?
The skin around the eyes is thinner and more sensitive than the skin on the rest of the face, and is often prone to dryness and fine lines.
Oils are typically rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, which can help to reduce inflammation, boost collagen production, and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Additionally, oils have a smaller molecular size than creams or lotions, allowing them to penetrate deeply into the skin and provide long-lasting hydration.
When applied to the eye area, an oil serum can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while leaving the skin looking plump and radiant.
Melvory creates the following oils within our range:
In Summary: Creams, Balms, Butters or Oils?
That’s a lot of information that we've presented.
So to recap and summarise:
Creams are best for daily use and hydrating the skin;
Balms are ideal for repairing and protecting dry or sensitive skin;
Butters are best for providing intense hydration and nourishment to extremely dry or damaged skin; and
Oils are often used for their potent anti-ageing properties.
When choosing a skincare product, it is important to consider your skin type and individual needs to determine which product is suitable for you.
If you need help with choosing the right products for your skin, please email us at info@melvory.com and one of our friendly pharmacy-trained staff will be happy to assist you.
