Occlusives, Humectants, Emollients, Oh My!

Ever been curious as to what some of the lingo your trusted esthetician uses when she's introducing a new product to you? Here are some definitions to some key buzz words in our industry...

Occlusive - this word is used to describe a product that is designed to create a barrier on the skin. Think about the definition of occluded which means to close up or obstruct and you'll know exactly what they are talking about! Clients who use products like this typically have very compromised skin. Key ingredients would be mineral oil, lanolin or dimethicone.

Humectant - this word is used to describe products that contain moisture-attracting ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Remember the days of hand washing dishes? The dry, brittle sponge quickly becoming plump after you dunked it in the sink water...this ringing a bell? If not buy a sponge and watch what happens when you put it in the water! When your favorite product contains this ingredient, it acts exactly like a sponge in your skin. Drawing up the moisture from deeper layers and using that to help moisturize the top layers. Great for normal to combination skin types.

Emollient - this word is used to describe a product that will prevent moisture loss. They help soften the skin by protecting cells and retaining the moisture inside of them. Keywords to look for ceramides, stearyl alcohol, and keratin. Great for normal to combination skin types.