The Role of Humectants, Emollients and Occlusives in Skincare

If and when colder weather gets here, our facial moisturizer routines will need to be stepped up. We thought you might like to know the different types of moisturizers that boost those moisture levels.

1. Humectants – pull moisture from the air directly to your skin. They can be naturally derived or synthetic. The most popular is hyaluronic acid. Glycerin and Aloe Vera are other forms of humectants.

Aloe Vera can act as both a humectant and an emollient and can be found in the Gentle Solutions cleanser and moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid can be found in our Preventage Firming Defense Cream.

The most effective humectant is glycerin, which can be found in our Anti-Aging Complex line of products. Humectants need an occlusive to seal it to prevent it from pulling moisture from your own skin.

2. Emollients – smooth the skin and create a soft texture. Both the Daily Moisture Cream and Nightly Moisture Cream have humectants and emollients. Stearic acid is an example of an emollient, as are jojoba oil, ceramides and squalane.

3. Occlusives – seal moisture, giving skin a barrier of protection. Super Lube is a good example of an occlusive product that contains petrolatum. Beeswax and shea butter are additional examples of occlusives. Anti-Aging Night Cream contains shea butter.

For extra boost, serums can help specific issues.

Call or stop by for a consultation to determine the best moisturizers for your skin type.