Which ingredient in skincare can help to increase moisture retention?

Humectants are substances that have the ability to attract and hold onto water molecules, both from the environment and from deeper layers of the skin. This property makes humectants essential for enhancing moisture retention in skincare products. By binding moisture to the skin, they help to prevent dehydration, improve skin elasticity, and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Common examples of humectants include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera.

In the context of skincare, maintaining adequate moisture levels is crucial for a healthy appearance and overall skin function. Humectants ensure that hydration is retained, making them a vital ingredient in moisturizing formulations.

Other options listed do not share this hydrating property. For instance, clay is typically used for its oil-absorbing properties and is often found in products aimed at oily or acne-prone skin, rather than for moisture retention. Sulphur is known for its antiseptic and keratolytic effects, primarily utilized in treatments for acne and other skin disorders, rather than hydration. Mineral oil, while it acts as an occlusive agent by forming a barrier on the skin to prevent water loss, does not attract moisture itself; rather, it seals in existing moisture. This distinction is why humectants are specifically identified as