Humectants are a type of ingredient that are commonly used in skincare products. As their name suggests, humectants are designed to attract water to the skin and help it to retain moisture. This can be particularly beneficial for clients with dry or dehydrated skin, as it can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles caused by dryness. Humectants work by drawing water from the air or from deeper layers of the skin to the surface. This helps to plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Humectants can also help to protect the skin from environmental damage and keep it soft and smooth.
Some common humectants include:
It is also important to note that humectants work best when used in conjunction with other moisturizing ingredients. Products that contain a combination of humectants and emollients, for example, can help to improve the skin’s moisture balance and provide long-lasting hydration.
Humectants are a crucial component of nearly all skincare and beauty products. They work alongside emollients and occlusive products to create moisturizers, which are a primary skincare product used for almost all skin types.