Hydrophilic Ointment: Uses, Benefits & How It Works

Hydrophilic ointment is typically used for a base in skin formulations. The ointment is also used for making the final product easier to spread, according to Lawrence Schachner and Ronald Hansen, authors of "Pediatric Dermatology."

Solubility

• Regular ointments are fat-based mixtures that are not water-soluble and have a greasy feel. Because a hydrophilic ointment contains more water, its solubility makes it easier to apply and more washable. It is considered an oil-in-water ointment while regular ointments are water-in-oil.

Ingredients

• Hydrophilic ointment typically consists of a hydrocarbon grease called white petrolatum, stearyl alcohol, propyl glycol emulsified in water and lauryl sulfate, according to HealthExpertAdvice.com.

Base for Other Ingredients

• Hydrophilic ointment is often used as a base or vehicle for other active ingredients or drugs. Preparations range from dry-skin creams to prescription products compounded by pharmacists for other skin disorders.