What is the main function of a day cream?

The primary function of a day cream is to protect the skin against environmental factors. Day creams are formulated with ingredients that create a barrier on the skin, helping to shield it from harmful elements such as UV radiation, pollution, and harsh weather. This protective aspect is critical as it helps to prevent skin damage and supports overall skin health throughout the day.

While hydration is indeed a key aspect of many day creams, as they can help maintain moisture levels in the skin, the defining feature of day creams is their protective role. They are often designed to be lightweight and non-greasy, making them suitable for daily use under makeup or as part of a basic skincare routine.

The other options, though beneficial in different contexts, do not capture the primary role of a day cream. Exfoliation, which removes dead skin cells, and skin lightening, which targets pigmentation, are typically functions associated with other specific products, rather than being the main purpose of a day cream. Hence, the emphasis is on its protective capabilities, aligning with the demands of daily environmental exposure.