The key difference between aquaphor and hydrophor is their use. Aquaphor can be used to treat minor skin diseases as well as skin irritations coming from radiation therapy, whereas hydrophor can be used to treat minor skin irritations but is not effective against skin irritations coming from radiation therapy.
Both aquaphors and hydrophors can be described as emollients. Emollients are ointments useful in treating minor skin diseases such as dry skin, itching, scaly skin, etc. However, they have a few specifications as well.
CONTENTS
1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is Aquaphor
3. What is Hydrophor
4. Similarities – Aquaphor and Hydrophor
5. Aquaphor vs Hydrophor in Tabular Form
6. Summary – Aquaphor vs Hydrophor
What is Aquaphor?
Aquaphor is a medication available as a form of topical ointment that can be used as a moisturizer to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations such as diaper rash, skin burns from radiation therapy. Some products of aquaphors require priming before use. Therefore, it is advised to follow all the instructions given in the package before using it.
For example, if we are using this ointment to treat diaper rash, then we need to clean the diaper area thoroughly before using this ointment, and then we have to let it dry properly. However, we need to avoid this medication from entering the eyes, mouth or nose, vaginal area because it is only for use on the skin. Using the medication regularly can help you heal the wounded area quickly.
There can be some minor side effects of using this ointment, as well, including burning, stinging, redness, and irritation. However, most people who use aquaphor ointment do not show side effects. Besides, there can be serious allergy reactions, including rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing, etc.
What is Hydrophor?
Hydrophor is a medication used as a moisturizer in treating or preventing dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations. These skin conditions may come from diaper rash, skin burns that come from radiation therapy, etc. The generic name of hydrophors is “white petroleum.” Usually, dry skin is caused by the loss of water from the top layer of the skin. Therefore, these substances can work by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin in order to trap water.
Moreover, some hydrophor products have ingredients that can soften substances such as keratin, which can hold the top layer of skin cells together (this includes urea, alpha hydroxyl acids, and allantoin). This can help the dead skin cells fall off and also help the skin to retain more water, leaving the skin feeling smoother and softer.
Hydrophor ointment is for only topical use, which means we can apply it only on the skin. Therefore, it is important to prevent this medication from entering sensitive areas such as the mouth, nose, and eyes. Regular use of this ointment can be highly beneficial.
Most hydrophor medications are safe and effective. However, burning, stinging, redness, and irritation are some minor side effects that may come from this ointment. However, some people tend to develop some serious side effects like unusual skin changes such as turning white, softening of the skin, too much wetness, and skin infections.
What are the Similarities Between Aquaphor and Hydrophor?
- Aquaphors and hydrophors are emollients.
- These are moisturizing lotions.
- These are important in moisturizing skin to prevent skin dryness and itching.
- Both are available over the counter.
What is the Difference Between Aquaphor and Hydrophor?
Both aquaphors and hydrophors can be named emollients. The key difference between aquaphor and hydrophor is that aquaphor can be used to treat minor skin diseases as well as skin irritations coming from radiation therapy, whereas hydrophor can be used to treat minor skin irritations but not effective against skin irritations coming from radiation therapy.
Summary – Aquaphor vs Hydrophor
Both aquaphors and hydrophors can be described as emollients. Emollients are useful as moisturizers. The key difference between aquaphor and hydrophor is that aquaphor can be used to treat minor skin diseases as well as skin irritations coming from radiation therapy, whereas hydrophor can be used to treat minor skin irritations but not effective against skin irritations coming from radiation therapy.
Reference:
1. “Hydrophor Topical: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing.” Webmd.Com.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Photo of flower, food, ointment, dessert, lighting, cream, icing, gel, skincare, flavor, skin care, pharmaceutical” (CC0) via Pxhere