A moisturizing lotion contains how much oil?

• A. 5%
• B. 15%
• C. 30%
• D. 50%

Answer: (B)

Lotions are lightweight oil-in-water emulsions, so they carry a relatively low amount of oil to keep the texture light and non-greasy. For a moisturizing lotion, the oil content is typically moderate—enough to provide slip and emollience without heaviness. About fifteen percent oil hits that balance, giving good moisturization with a light feel.

If the oil content were as low as five percent, the product might feel very light and could provide less occlusive moisturization. If it were thirty or fifty percent, the product would be thicker and more cream- or ointment-like, which isn’t typical of a lotion.