Is it beneficial to use an ointment instead of cream or lotion?

Ointment is a preparation that is oil base and it stays on your skin longer. It is free of preservative thus minimising contact allergy. This is beneficial for people with  dry skin but it is not cosmetically acceptible. Individuals complain of being too greasy and slimey thus reducing non concordance with the prescribed treatment. This preparation can be used at night, most people are happy to use them before bed time.

Cream is water based and preservatives are added to prevent the growth of bacteria. These preservatives can cause contact allergy to people who are sensitive to them. You need to apply the cream more often if it is an emollient, because it tends to dry quickly. Individuals with busy schedule may be put off with multiple application  of emollients. Lotion can be beneficial in a hairy areas like scalp.

In my clinical practice, I give a small samples of moisturiser to my clients to try. If the individual likes the moisturiser prescribed, then concordance will be high. The most important thing is for you to apply your topical treatment regularly whether it is a cream or an ointment. It is pointless to prescribe an ointment when you are not going to apply it.