A humectant is a substance used to keep products moisturized and affects the preservation of items. It can be found in various products such as cosmetics, food, and personal care items. Humectants attract and bind water, drawing moisture from the air into the skin, hair, or nails. They are commonly used in a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products, including hair conditioners, body lotions, face or body cleansers, lip balms, and eye creams. Some common examples of humectants include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera gel, and propylene glycol. Humectants are beneficial for retaining moisture in the skin and hair, but it's important to consider the specific properties of the humectant and other ingredients in the product. They are different from emollients and occlusives, which work by forming a barrier over the skin, trapping moisture inside rather than attracting it
. When considering a product containing humectants, it's important to assess the brand's integrity and adherence to industry best practices. Not all humectants work the same way, and some ingredients in the product may undo the benefits of the humectant. Humectants and occlusives may be used together or separately in a given personal care product, depending on the specific skin and hair care needs
. Some common humectants include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, propylene glycol, and various sugar alcohols. These ingredients are commonly found in skincare and hair care products such as shampoos, conditioners, body lotions, and face cleansers. Humectants work by attracting water and drawing moisture from the air into the skin, helping to keep it hydrated
. In summary, humectants are beneficial ingredients that help retain moisture in the skin, hair, and nails. They are commonly found in a variety of personal care products and work by attracting and binding water, ultimately helping to keep the skin and hair hydrated
