Humectants
Humectants are cosmetic ingredients with high water absorption capabilities (hygroscopicity), intended to increase and maintain the water content of top layers of the skin improving skin’s flexibility. Some humectants may modify skin’s surface properties and barrier function, and influence specific metabolic processes in the skin. Humectants can also improve the cosmetic properties of the formulation, such as retarding of moisture loss from a cosmetic product or improving skin feel.