Moisturizer

Water in, water kept

What's in moisturizer, and how does it work?

Combines humectants that attract water, emollients that smooth, and occlusives that seal water in.

Three jobs

Humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid), emollients (oils, esters), occlusives (petrolatum, dimethicone).

Practical

Applying right after bathing, on damp skin, traps more water.

Evidence & sources

• Dermatologists advise applying moisturizer right after bathing to help trap water in the skin. Evidence: moderate. Known: Expert clinical guidance. Unknown: — Source: American Academy of Dermatology, Dermatologists' tips for relieving dry skin (Current revision).

Connected topics

• Glycerin
• Petrolatum
• Dimethicone
• Skin Barrier
• Skin

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General education only, not medical advice. Drafted Oct 2026 · pending qualified expert review.