Choosing an emollient or moisturiser

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Cosmetic Science

Background:

• Moisturisers are widely used skincare products.
• Their primary function is to enhance skin hydration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of moisturisers in increasing skin water content.
• To understand the mechanisms by which moisturisers hydrate the skin.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing scientific literature on moisturiser efficacy.
• Analysis of different moisturiser formulations and their proposed mechanisms of action.

Main Results:

• Moisturisers can increase skin hydration through occlusion (preventing water evaporation) or humectancy (attracting water).
• The scientific evidence supporting the definitive usefulness of all moisturisers is limited.

Conclusions:

• Moisturisers offer potential benefits for skin hydration.
• Further research is needed to confirm the consistent efficacy of various moisturising agents.