The science behind skin care: Moisturizers

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018 Apr;17(2):138-144. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12490. Epub 2018 Jan 10.

Abstract

Moisturizers provide functional skin benefits, such as making the skin smooth and soft, increasing skin hydration, and improving skin optical characteristics; however, moisturizers also function as vehicles to deliver ingredients to the skin. These ingredients may be vitamins, botanical antioxidants, peptides, skin-lightening agents, botanical anti-inflammatories, or exfoliants. This discussion covers the science of moisturizers.

Keywords: active cosmetics; botanicals; moisturizer; serums; skin creams; transepidermal water loss.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Body Water
  • Ceramides
  • Humans
  • Hygroscopic Agents
  • Lipids
  • Ointments
  • Petrolatum
  • Silicones
  • Skin Care*
  • Skin Cream / chemistry
  • Skin Cream / pharmacology*
  • Skin Physiological Phenomena / drug effects*
  • Water Loss, Insensible / drug effects

Substances

  • Ceramides
  • Hygroscopic Agents
  • Lipids
  • Ointments
  • Silicones
  • Petrolatum