It doesn’t take a true beauty junkie to know that the primary purpose of a moisturiser is to hydrate the skin and keep dryness at bay. Well, it all might sound super easy if you never heard of emollients, occlusives and humectants. We know right, what exactly are those anyway? Honestly, the never-ending list of beauty terminology never fails to surprise us and it includes the most essential product, moisturiser. For those who are new to the scene, moisturiser is actually divided into two aspects, occlusive and emollients, in which both of them feature different ingredients and benefits. If you start to feel like things just get a little bit complicated, keep in mind that knowing these ingredients can help you better understand the type of beauty products that your skin actually needs. Unsure which one should you pick, whether it’s moisturiser or emollients for your skin? Fret not as Beauty Insider has gathered all the essential info that you’ve been dying to know about using emollients for skin. 

Brief Information

What is the main benefit?

Unlike moisturiser, emollients help to soften dry and flaky skin. Aside from its ability to fill in the crack space within the skin cells, it works wonders to retain the moisture for long-lasting hydration.

Who should use it?

It is ideal for all skin types especially those with dry or sensitive skin as it can fortify the barrier layers. If you have naturally super oily skin, you might need to avoid products that have heavy texture and oil ingredients as they can clog the pores, thereby worsening the acne condition

How to use it?

Emollients based products can be applied regularly throughout the day. It can also be combined with other hydrating and soothing ingredients for optimal outcomes. However, avoid pairing it with active ingredients that are known to cause irritation like retinol, AHAs or BHAs. 

What are Emollients? 

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Emollients are part of the moisturising ingredients that are known to soften the skin, making it highly effective for those with dry, flaky and rough skin. Amongst the list of ingredients that are categorised as emollients are oils, lipids, fatty acids, butters and esters. On a side note, they can be sourced naturally or even derived from synthetic ingredients. Although it might seem confusing, you might also have encountered the term occlusive emollients before which actually refers to the range of beauty products that contain such ingredients.

Whether it’s lotions, creams or ointments, these occlusive emollients are known for their ability to strengthen the protective barrier and seal in all the moisture. The most misconception that people think of emollient and moisturiser is that they are the same thing. As we have mentioned earlier, emollients are part of an ingredient in a moisturiser, so they are definitely not similar. 

Benefits of Emollients

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Beauty products that contain emollients are packed with soothing and hydrating properties. So, you can certainly find tons of products with emollients that are specially formulated for those with skin disorders including eczema, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. What’s more, with these astounding benefits of emollients, it can combat several skin issues caused by exposure to harsh chemicals and even cold weather.

  • Soothes irritation and inflammation
  • Fortifies the skin protective barrier layers
  • Softens any rough texture 
  • Retains the moisture in the skin
  • Fill in any crack in skin cells
  • Replenish the skin 

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Emollients?

Generally, you can religiously apply emollients on your face and body, but be wary of ointments as they have a thick texture which is absolutely not ideal if you have acne-prone or oily skin. Plus, water-based emollients like lotions and creams are susceptible to contamination, hence usually their formulations include preservatives. Although adverse effects due to such ingredients are rare, people with sensitive skin will find that they are irritating. 

The List of Beauty Products that are Formulated with Emollients

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

There’s a reason why derm and beauty editors all around the world are head over heels with the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. It is expertly formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to seal in the moisture and protect the skin barrier layers. With its soothing properties, this cult favourite product works wonders to keep irritation and inflammation away. 

Why we love it:

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Packed with soothing properties
  • Ideal for face and body

Price: $23.00

Where to buy: Lookfantastic 

Aveeno Dermexa Daily Emollient Cream

Aveeno Dermexa Daily Emollient Cream harnesses the power of Triple Oat Complex and ceramides deliver multiple benefits for healthy-looking skin. This powerful combination helps to hydrate, soothe and fortify the skin barrier layers. With its clean formulation that is free from harmful ingredients, this emollient cream is ideal for those who want to minimise the symptoms of eczema including itchiness and irritation. 

Why we love it:

  • Dermatologist tested
  • Free from steroid, paraben and fragrance
  • Ideal for eczema skin

Price: $20.90

Where to buy: Guardian 

MUSTELA Stelatopia Emollient Cream

Formulated especially for babies and young children, MUSTELA Stelatopia Emollient Cream is an essential item for every parent. It is loaded with hydrating and soothing properties that replenish the skin and deliver intense hydration. Infused with avocado perseose, it shields the skin by fortifying the protective barrier to prevent any irritation. 

Why we love it:

  • Natural ingredients
  • Relieves itchiness and irritation
  • Gentle formulation 

Price: $24.90 – $29.90

Where to buy: Shopee

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