In the realm of skincare products, salves and balms share common ground. A salve is a semi-solid soothing or healing ointment, composed mainly of oils and wax. When applied, it melts and absorbs into the skin, making it a popular choice for various skin conditions like burns, cuts, and rashes.
A balm, while similar, has a thicker consistency due to a higher proportion of wax or similar substances. Rather than being absorbed into the skin, balms form a protective layer on the skin's surface, sealing in moisture and providing a barrier against external elements. Examples of this are lip balms and body balms.