Humectants, Emollients and Silicones

Humectants attract and absorb water molecules helping to draw and retain moisture to the skin. Humectants are used extensively in personal care products such as lotions, creams, facial toners, cleansers, and hair care products.

Although many people think an emollient and a moisturizer are the same things, they aren’t. An emollient is one of the ingredients in a moisturizer. The other ingredients in a moisturizer bring water into your skin. Emollients are part of a moisturizer that keeps your skin soft and smooth.

Methicones are commonly used in haircare for their detangling and softening properties and to add shine to the hair. Also used in creams and lotions to help add a protective layer onto the skin, protecting from moisture loss.