What do emollients do?

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

Emollients moisturize your skin directly, instead of just attracting moisture to your skin like humectants do. They also coat your skin so it can retain its moisture. If you've used a product containing mineral oil, silicone oil or isopropyl isostearate, you've used an emollient.

Continue Learning about Moisturizer Ingredients

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Moisturizers for oily skin are generally oil-free or contain very limited, light oils. They usually ...

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Three important ingredients in a moisturizer are humectants, occlusives and emollients. Together, th...

Dr. Doris Day, MD

They attract water to the skin from the external environment – that is, the air. Examples are propyl...

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Water-in-oil moisturizers are those in which oil is the dominant carrier. Since these formulations t...

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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