Question:medium
In equivalent concentrations, topical steroids are more potent in which form:
In equivalent concentrations, topical steroids are more potent in which form:
Show Hint
Which base is most occlusive and hydrates the skin the most?
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
- Gel
- Cream
- Ointment
- Lotion
Show Solution
The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
Topical corticosteroid potency is not just about the molecule; the base it is mixed into matters a great deal. The reason is penetration. Whatever helps the steroid cross the skin barrier raises its effective strength at the same concentration.
Picture how each preparation behaves on skin. An ointment is oily and forms a sealing layer over the surface. This occlusion holds water in the outer skin, softens and hydrates the stratum corneum, and lets far more drug diffuse through. That occlusive boost is why an ointment delivers the strongest effect of the four.
A cream is a water-and-oil emulsion that feels lighter and is only partly occlusive, so it pushes less drug through. Gels and lotions are even lighter, often evaporate or dry on the skin, and provide the least occlusion, so they give the weakest penetration of all.
Lining them up from strongest to weakest gives ointment, then cream, then the gel and lotion forms. The winner for potency is therefore the ointment.
\[\boxed{\text{Ointment (option C)}}\]
Picture how each preparation behaves on skin. An ointment is oily and forms a sealing layer over the surface. This occlusion holds water in the outer skin, softens and hydrates the stratum corneum, and lets far more drug diffuse through. That occlusive boost is why an ointment delivers the strongest effect of the four.
A cream is a water-and-oil emulsion that feels lighter and is only partly occlusive, so it pushes less drug through. Gels and lotions are even lighter, often evaporate or dry on the skin, and provide the least occlusion, so they give the weakest penetration of all.
Lining them up from strongest to weakest gives ointment, then cream, then the gel and lotion forms. The winner for potency is therefore the ointment.
\[\boxed{\text{Ointment (option C)}}\]
Was this answer helpful?
0
