A topical medicine is a formulated to be administered externally onto the body rather than ingested or injected into the body. Examples of topical medicines include lotions, creams, ointments, powders and solutions.
Topical lotions are water based and thin and are absorbed quickly into the skin and are often invisible after application. Topical creams are thicker and are visible on the skin after application. They require more time for the medication to be absorbed into the skin. Ointments or unguents are the thickest form of topical medication. The medicine is suspended in a greasy substance that adheres to the skin until the medicine is absorbed.
In each case excipients are required that enhance the penetration/absorption of the active substance; facilitate thickening and stabilisation; or act as rheology modifiers. IMCD offers excipients and expertise in formulation to deliver the qualities you need for your topical formulation.
- Fatty Acids
- Fatty Alcohols
- Carbomers
- Hydroxyethylcellulose
- Parabens
- Procipient™, dimethyl sulfoxide USP, PhEUR
