Glossary

Unlike a cream or gel, an ointment is a semi-solid emulsion for application to the skin or mucous membranes. The function of an ointment is to apply an active substance, e.g. to accelerate wound healing (wound ointment) or to protect and care for the skin and mucous membranes. Ointment s consist of either a hydrophobic or hydrophilic base of natural or synthetic substances.