Moisturizing Agents: Function, Shapes, Types, and Choice

1. All moisturizers provide a temporary barrier that protects the stratum corneum, or top layer of the skin, allowing damaged skin cells to repair themselves. The stratum corneum consists of 30 percent water. It's important to maintain that level for healthy looking skin. Moisturizers with added benefits are available on the market for day and night, for a specific skin type and for specific body parts. Moisturizers also come in various forms: creams, gels, lotions, oils and ointments. Several types are available: humectants, ceramides, occlusive agents, with additional ingredients and emollients. Some ingredients in certain types of moisturizers are better for the skin than others. It is important to make an informed choice based on the specific skin needs.

Types of moisturizers

1. Wetting agents Position

Choice: A different cream for every skin type

1. Some ingredients in certain types of moisturizers are better for the skin than others. The skin type and degree of dryness determine which type of moisturizer is most helpful. Moisturizers for oily skin are best oil-free. For dry skin, a person always uses oil-based ingredients such as petroleum jelly. Products for sensitive skin are free of preservatives, dyes, fragrances or lanolin. These ingredients cause skin irritation in people who are sensitive to this. Night creams are heavier than day creams so that the person has eight hours of protection.

2. Some ingredients in certain types of moisturisers are better for the skin than others. The skin type and degree of dryness determine which type of moisturizer is most helpful. Moisturizers for oily skin are best oil-free. For dry skin, a person always uses oil-based ingredients such as petroleum jelly. Products for sensitive skin are free of preservatives, dyes, fragrances or lanolin. These ingredients cause skin irritation in people who are sensitive to this. Night creams are heavier than day creams so that the person has eight hours of protection.