Moisturizers work by helping the skin hold onto water and repairing its protective barrier. They use three main strategies: occlusives (seal water in), humectants (pull water into the skin), and emollients (smooth gaps between skin cells).
Skin is the body’s largest organ, and its outer layer, called the stratum corneum. It acts like a shield. When this layer dries out, it can crack, itch, or feel tight. Moisturizers are designed to keep this barrier healthy by maintaining hydration and flexibility.
The Science Behind Moisturizers
Moisturizers don’t just “add water” to your skin. They use three main mechanisms:
- Occlusives
- Form a thin, oily layer on the skin to trap water inside. This is best for very dry or scaly skin.
- Examples: petroleum jelly, mineral oil, dimethicone.
- Humectants
- Attract water from deeper skin layers or the environment into the outer skin. These help keep skin plump and hydrated.
- Examples: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, urea.
- Emollients
- Fill in tiny cracks between skin cells, making skin feel smooth. They improve texture and flexibility.
- Examples: ceramides, fatty acids, lanolin.
Together, these ingredients reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL): the natural evaporation of water from skin.
Skin Barrier and Repair
The skin barrier is like a brick wall. The dead cells are the bricks, and lipids (fats) are the mortar. Moisturizers strengthen this wall by:
- Replacing lost lipids (emollients).
- Sealing cracks (occlusives).
- Rehydrating cells (humectants).
Regular use can reduce irritation, prevent flare-ups in conditions like eczema, and improve elasticity.
Everyday Tips
- Apply moisturizer after bathing. The skin is most receptive when damp.
- Match product to skin type:
- Lotions = lighter, good for oily or normal skin.
- Creams = thicker, better for dry skin.
- Ointments = strongest, for very dry or damaged skin.
- Avoid irritants (like fragrance and alcohol) which can worsen dryness.
Moisturizers work by locking in water, attracting moisture, and smoothing the skin barrier. They actively support the biology of healthy skin.
–
Click Here -> To see information References:
Disclaimer: The information published on The Badge Archive is built from the references listed below. These sources demonstrate that our content is grounded in facts and research, not opinion or speculation. Readers may consult them directly when looking for additional material.
- American Academy of Dermatology. “How to Pick the Right Moisturizer for Your Skin.” AAD, 25 Jan. 2022, http://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/pick-moisturizer. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. “How to Choose the Best Moisturizer for Your Dry Skin.” Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, 10 Nov. 2020, health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-choose-the-best-moisturizer-for-your-dry-skin. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
- “Moisturizers: Do They Work? – Harvard Health.” Harvard Health, Harvard Health, 29 May 2019, http://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/moisturizers-do-they-work. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
- Pander, Christina. “Skin Moisturizer Basics.” HowStuffWorks, 20 Aug. 2009, health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/moisturizing/products/skin-moisturizers.htm. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
- Rajkumar, Jeffrey, et al. “The Skin Barrier and Moisturization: Function, Disruption, and Mechanisms of Repair.” Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, vol. 36, no. 4, 15 Sept. 2023, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37717558/, https://doi.org/10.1159/000534136. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
- Whittaker, Libby, and Amanda Oakley. “Emollients and Moisturisers | DermNet NZ.” Dermnetnz.org, 2022, dermnetnz.org/topics/emollients-and-moisturisers. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.
The Badge Archive 