If dry skin is to return to a hydrated state, its moisture levels need to increase. An effective lotion will provide both immediate and long-term hydration. For very dry skin, it is important to choose a formulation with the correct balance of humectants, occlusives and emollients.
Moisturisers introduce hydration back into the skin to immediately soften dry, stiff surface skin cells. Humectants like glycerin help hydrate the skin by binding the water with the corneocytes. Humectants not only infuse moisture into the skin, but also help skin to restore itself.
Occlusives fill the void of lost lipids in the surface of the skin. They provide a physical barrier to the outside world and seal moisture in the cells to prevent further moisture loss. Additionally, occlusives aid the healing process by providing a protective barrier that reduces TEWL and retains the stratum corneum’s water content.
