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OTC Ointments

The skin, which is the largest organ in the human body, is also one of the most sensitive. As a result, the skin can become itchy, irritated or inflamed by a number of culprits and conditions. A variety of over-the-counter, or OTC, ointments are available to help soothe and relieve skin irritation. These OTC remedies, unlike doctor-prescribed pharmaceutical creams, are available without a prescription.

  1. Antifungal Ointments

    • Antifungal ointments are one of the most commonly used of all over-the-counter ointments. These products treat a variety of skin conditions and irritations. Antifungal ointments come in gel and cream varieties and are used for the treatment of athlete's foot and skin irritations caused by yeast and ringworm. Antifungal ointments are marketed under a myriad of brand names. However, most antifungal creams contain many of the same active ingredients, including econazole, miconazole, tioconazole and clotrimazole, all of which are used to treat fungus-related skin conditions. In addition, some antifungal creams also contain the ingredient hydrocortisone, which is used to calm irritated skin and to reduce itching while the antifungal ointment works toward treating the condition.

    Acne Creams

    • Acne is a common skin disorder that occurs when pores within the skin become clogged and irritated, leading to redness and puss-filled sacs or pimples. Over-the-counter acne treatments are used to control acne and keep it from worsening. Acne ointments come in a wide variety of brands and forms, including gels and creams. These products work by breaking down the bacteria within the clogged pore that has led to the inflammation and redness of the skin. Acne ointments leave behind an ongoing residual medication, usually benzoyl peroxide, which continues working on the skin for hours after application. Most acne creams are now available for purchase on demand, but at one time, many acne medications were available only through prescription.

    Cortisone Cream

    • Cortisone cream or ointment is a medication used to treat inflammation and is absorbed through the skin. Cortisone creams are often available over-the-counter and are used to treat a variety of skin ailments, including arthritis pain and inflammation of the joints as well as topical conditions like hemorrhoids. Cortisone ointments are also used to treat itchy dry skin caused by conditions such as eczema, diaper rash, psoriasis and poison ivy or poison sumac. Cortisone offers effective and fast-acting relief for most users when purchased in over-the-counter form, however, stronger versions of the medication are available by prescription.

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