There are tons of products on the market that say they can help with dry skin. The labels promise total skin rejuvenation -- but how do we know which ones actually work? When you’re facing a mountain of choices, it’s time to compare labels. Let’s demystify this situation! Here’s a list of our top moisturizing ingredients to look for if you have super thirsty skin --
1. Humectants
Hydroscopic substances used to keep things moist - humectants work by attracting water out of the air and into your skin cells. Glycerin, allantoin, hyaluronic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, propylene glycol, sorbitol, and sodium lactate are all commonly found in moisturizing skincare products. Keep an eye out for these helpful humectants!
2. Occlusives
Now that we’ve drawn moisture into our skin, keep it from escaping with this next ingredient. Occlusives work by forming a barrier over your skin that prevents water from being lost when you’re exposed to things like dry air and wind. Common occlusives include lanolin, mineral oil, argan oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, petrolatum, paraffin, and dimethicone.
3. Emollients
Many occlusives are also great emollients. Emollients are used to fill in the spaces between peeling, damaged, rough skin cells providing a smoothing and softening effect. Specifically plant oils & butters -- like argan, olive, and sweet almond oil & shea and cocoa butter -- and fatty acids like lanolin are excellent ingredients to look for that do double-duty as emollients and occlusives.
The idea is simple -- draw moisture in and keep it there. Next time you’re shopping for new skincare products don’t skip reading the labels! Be on the lookout for these powerful revitalizing ingredients when your parched skin is begging for a drink.