What are the binders and emulsifiers used in skin care products?

Dr. Ellen Marmur, MD

Dermatology

Binders and emulsifiers are elements that create a stable mixture of different ingredients - binding oil and water together, for example:

Butylene glycol (also a humectant)
Polysorbates
Glyceryl stearate (also an emollient and adds pearlescence)
Cetearyl, cetyl, and stearyl alcohol (also a waxy emollient that adds
opacity to color)
Stearic acid (also a surfactant and emollient and adds opacity to
color)
PEG (polyethylene glycol for example, PEG-100 stearate) (also an
emollient and surfactant)
Triethanolamine (also a buffer)
Palmitates (ethylhexyl, isopropyl, and cetyl palmitates are also
emollients)
Ceteareth 20

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Simple Skin Beauty: Every Woman's Guide to a Lifetime of Healthy, Gorgeous Skin

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Moisturizer Ingredients

With so many moisturizers on the market promising different results, it's important to consider the ingredients. Humectants like glycerin and urea help by absorbing water from the air and holding moisture in the skin. Emollients like mineral oil, lanolin and petrolatum fill spaces between skin cells, replacing lipids and smoothing and lubricating rough skin. Occlusives -- like petroleum jelly and cocoa butter -- are oily substances that form a film on the top of skin, sealing in cracks and preventing moisture from escaping. Some additives like fragrances could cause your skin irritation, so check any lotion's ingredient label before using. Know which moisturizer ingredients to look for with expert advice from Sharecare.

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