Moisturizers don't just help make your skin soft, but they also protect, repair and balance your skin better. Moisturizers are primarily made out of 3 components: humectants, emollients, and occlusives.
Humectants improve skin hydration by binding water molecules to the skin surface.
Examples of humectants include:
Hyaluronic Acid
Glycerin
Aloe Vera
Urea
Best for:Â All skin types
Especially needed for dry or dehydrated skin
Pro Tip: Apply on damp skin, then add lotion to seal in the moisturizer.
Watch for: You can risk moisture loss in low-humidity climates, so combining with an occlusive is best in that situation.
Feels like: Light, refreshing, and hydrating textures
Emollients help make the skin feel smooth, because they create a protective barrier to seal in your moisturizer.
Examples of emollients include:
Squalane
Jojoba Oil
Cetearly alochal- these alchohols are good because they dont dry out the skin and they are beneficial.
Shea Butter
Best For: Dry, flaky, or sensitive skin
Pro Tip: Try to dab onto damp skin as opposed to rubbing to limit possible irritation.
Watch for: Some emollients are known to clog pores which can lead to acne and skin irritation so double check your ingredients if prone to sensitive skin.
Feels like: Creamy, silky, or rich textures
Occlusives seal moisture in and keep irritants out, by providing a protective layer to your skin.
Examples of occlusives include:
Petrolatum
Dimenthicone
Lanolin
Best for: Nighttime routines or very dry skin
Pro Tip: Layer your occlusive product last, following lighter products such as serums.
Watch for: Can feel heavy or greasy if overused.
Feels like: Heavy, waxy, or thick textures
Fragrances - may irritate sensitive skin
Alcohol denat - strips natural oils can lead to dry skin
Essential oils - natural but can trigger reactions
Look for moisturizers that say
Non-comedogenic
Fragrance free
For sensitive skin
Squaline- a lightweight oil that replicates your skin's natural oil. Non-greasy, and tween-safe!