{"id":1698574,"date":"2026-01-14T13:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-14T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1698574"},"modified":"2026-01-14T13:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-01-14T10:00:00","slug":"humectants-vs-emollients-vs-occlusives-which-one-does-your-skin-need","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1698574","title":{"rendered":"Humectants vs Emollients vs Occlusives: Which One Does Your Skin Need?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><main id=\"main_1-0\" class=\"comp main layout-body--continuous-scroll mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--two-column-right-rail sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">Humectants vs Emollients vs Occlusives: Which One Does Your Skin Need?<\/h1>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"&lt;p&gt;Jessica Fields is a beauty writer specializing in industry topics like skincare, makeup, hair, and nail trends. She got her start in media at Coveteur, where she worked as an editorial assistant, building, producing, and writing beauty and fashion stories.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Jessica Fields<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Jessica Fields\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/jlfheadshot-jessicafields-f543a234af2d4cf9a5da467f8f49a178-1.webp\" title=\"jlfheadshot-jessicafields-f543a234af2d4cf9a5da467f8f49a178-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/jlfheadshot-jessicafields-f543a234af2d4cf9a5da467f8f49a178-1.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Jessica Fields\" title=\"jlfheadshot-jessicafields-f543a234af2d4cf9a5da467f8f49a178-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nJessica Fields\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\n<p>Jessica Fields is a beauty writer specializing in industry topics like skincare, makeup, hair, and nail trends. She got her start in media at Coveteur, where she worked as an editorial assistant, building, producing, and writing beauty and fashion stories.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on January 14, 2026 08:00AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" alt=\"Person with closed eyes wearing layered necklaces\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Person with closed eyes wearing layered necklaces\" title=\"occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Stocksy<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> We all know that what&#8217;s\u00a0<em>in<\/em>\u00a0our products plays a critical role in helping us achieve our skincare goals. Among the laundry list of ingredients, three terms often come up: humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Though these words are often used on BeautyTok, remembering what each one is\u2014and what makes them unique\u2014can be tricky. <strong>To help unravel the mystery, we asked three skin experts for a complete breakdown of humectants, emollients, and occlusives.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Dr. Naana Boakye, MD, MPH, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Bergen Dermatology and Dr. Naana Boakye Skincare.<\/li>\n<li>Nichelle Temple is an NYC-based esthetician and the owner of Inderma Studio.<\/li>\n<li>Samantha Susca is a celebrity aesthetician and owner of Refinery4.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is a Humectant? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Humectants are ingredients used in topical skin care products. Their primary function is to boost hydration by drawing moisture into the skin. &#8220;Like little hydration magnets, they attract water to the skin&#8217;s surface, drawing it deep beneath it,&#8221; Temple says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> But humectants don&#8217;t just attract water\u2014they hold onto it tightly. In fact, that&#8217;s what makes them so unique. &#8220;They pull moisture from the environment, bind water to the skin, increase hydration levels, and plump the skin, helping skin look and feel more supple,&#8221; Dr. Boakye says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> That said, they are ideal for everyone, but especially for those with dry, mature, or acne-prone skin. Another important point to note about humectants is that they include a variety of ingredients you&#8217;re likely already familiar with. &#8220;Glycerin is the gold standard hydrator, as well as hyaluronic acid, algae and seaweed extracts, and propylene glycol,&#8221; says Temple.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is an Emollient? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Unlike humectants, emollients soften the skin from the outside by lubricating the skin&#8217;s surface and protecting its barrier. &#8220;They mostly work on replenishing the lipid supply of the outermost surface skin layer,&#8221; Susca says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> She explains that, although they are the opposite of humectants, they still depend on them to work optimally. &#8220;Emollients don&#8217;t hydrate the skin on their own and need humectants to attract moisture,&#8221; she adds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Temple further explains that most moisturizing products combine emollients and humectants. &#8220;There are thousands of combinations that determine the differences between rich moisturizers like creams and lotions and lightweight formulas such as fluid serums,&#8221; says Temple.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is an Occlusive? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Occlusives also sit on top of the skin and, like emollients, their primary function is to prevent water loss. According to Dr. Naana Boakye, they play a critical role in repairing and protecting the skin barrier. They&#8217;re basically a sealant, trapping moisture beneath the skin&#8217;s surface. In that vein, they neither hydrate nor moisturize it.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;With the use of an occlusive, hydration is kept locked within the skin while also acting as a protective barrier to the outside world, preventing microbes from entering,&#8221; Susca says,\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> So what makes an occlusive different from an emollient? Consistency. As Dr. Naana Boakye explains, occlusive ingredients are composed of non-polar hydrocarbons, which do not interact with water. &#8220;Think mineral oils and squalene. Other common ingredients include vegetable oils, natural waxes, silicones like dimethicone, and sterols such as cholesterol and ceramides,&#8221; she says.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Should I Add Them All to My Routine? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Given the unique properties of these ingredients, it&#8217;s easy to see why your routine would benefit from using them all. However, according to the experts, a combined approach is better than applying multiple layers of product. &#8220;You probably don&#8217;t need to use them all as separate products, but your skin will benefit from all three functions,&#8221; Dr. Boakye says. &#8220;You want hydration, barrier repair, and protection working together. Fortunately, you don&#8217;t have to work too hard to reap the rewards, since many skincare products contain some blend of these ingredients.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you are working with separate products, it&#8217;s important to consider their consistency. Humectants are necessary for all skin because they draw water into the skin. They are typically lightweight and should therefore be applied first. Emollients come next. They work in tandem with humectants and prevent water loss. Occuslive products are the thickest of the three and should be used last, allowing them to act as a seal to lock in moisture. &#8220;While all three steps aren&#8217;t always necessary, they can work synergistically depending on the skin&#8217;s needs and environment,&#8221; Susca adds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Skin<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item 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src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/microinfusion-3-c120de539f3545a4bcb3ba96d67df9d1-1.webp\" title=\"microinfusion-3-c120de539f3545a4bcb3ba96d67df9d1-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/microinfusion-3-c120de539f3545a4bcb3ba96d67df9d1-1.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person with hands positioned under chin neutral expression\" title=\"microinfusion-3-c120de539f3545a4bcb3ba96d67df9d1-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">A Microinfusion Treatment Worked Like Magic on My Skin\u2014Here&#8217;s Why the Glow Was Instant<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_7-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Closeup of a smiling person with a skincare product applied to their face\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/zinc-1-b72a419bb6134ffeabf5f7169d315fd7-2.webp\" title=\"zinc-1-b72a419bb6134ffeabf5f7169d315fd7-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/zinc-1-b72a419bb6134ffeabf5f7169d315fd7-2.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a smiling person with a skincare product applied to their face\" title=\"zinc-1-b72a419bb6134ffeabf5f7169d315fd7-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Zinc Is the Underrated Fix for Acne and Skin Inflammation <\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_8-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A person examining their facial skin in a handheld mirror\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-1.webp\" title=\"skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-1.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person examining their facial skin in a handheld mirror\" title=\"skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Licorice Extract Can Fade Dark Spots (Yes, Really)\u2014Here&#8217;s Exactly How Derms Say to Use It<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul id=\"card-list-2_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list-2 card-list mntl-block l-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"card-list__item_9-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Assortment of pills and capsules\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/silica-2-a595f2498a1143f2ad09cef35a9816aa.webp\" title=\"silica-2-a595f2498a1143f2ad09cef35a9816aa\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/silica-2-a595f2498a1143f2ad09cef35a9816aa.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Assortment of pills and capsules\" title=\"silica-2-a595f2498a1143f2ad09cef35a9816aa\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Are Silica Supplements the New Collagen? We Asked Dermatologists<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_10-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying serum to their face with a dropper\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-barrier-2-9857bef74e3f4b2684c3f15080102c04.webp\" title=\"skin-barrier-2-9857bef74e3f4b2684c3f15080102c04\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-barrier-2-9857bef74e3f4b2684c3f15080102c04.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A closeup of a person applying serum to their face with a dropper\" title=\"skin-barrier-2-9857bef74e3f4b2684c3f15080102c04\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">This Is the (Easy) Skin Barrier Repair Guide You&#8217;ve Been Waiting For<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_11-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A woman with long gray hair one hand touching her hair and the other on her shoulder\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/menopause-2-22bdd503c94748e3b16a4a06ea77cca0-2.webp\" title=\"menopause-2-22bdd503c94748e3b16a4a06ea77cca0-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/menopause-2-22bdd503c94748e3b16a4a06ea77cca0-2.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman with long gray hair one hand touching her hair and the other on her shoulder\" title=\"menopause-2-22bdd503c94748e3b16a4a06ea77cca0-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Menopausal Acne Happens, And You Have Options\u2014 Find the Best Treatment For You Here<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_12-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Person wearing a metallic face mask for skincare treatment\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/facial-2-c6e21fac46d24a74a3fdca37a4670a90.webp\" title=\"facial-2-c6e21fac46d24a74a3fdca37a4670a90\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/facial-2-c6e21fac46d24a74a3fdca37a4670a90.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person wearing a metallic face mask for skincare treatment\" title=\"facial-2-c6e21fac46d24a74a3fdca37a4670a90\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Derms Share How Often You Should Be Getting Facials (There&#8217;s an Important Rule of Thumb)<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_13-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A person applying a skincare product and showcasing the result\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-moisturizers-for-rosacea-tout-recirc-74ce224fad10427bb10f699280a99f88-1.webp\" title=\"byr-best-moisturizers-for-rosacea-tout-recirc-74ce224fad10427bb10f699280a99f88-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-moisturizers-for-rosacea-tout-recirc-74ce224fad10427bb10f699280a99f88-1.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person applying a skincare product and showcasing the result\" title=\"byr-best-moisturizers-for-rosacea-tout-recirc-74ce224fad10427bb10f699280a99f88-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 13 Best Rosacea-Friendly Moisturizers for Calm, Comfortable Skin, Per Testers<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_14-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A person touching their face with their fingers wearing a towel wrap on their head\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-icing-1-bd7843df61654617b709d62e11c8df02.webp\" title=\"skin-icing-1-bd7843df61654617b709d62e11c8df02\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-icing-1-bd7843df61654617b709d62e11c8df02.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person touching their face with their fingers wearing a towel wrap on their head\" title=\"skin-icing-1-bd7843df61654617b709d62e11c8df02\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">&#8220;Skin Icing&#8221; Is the Viral Trick With the Glowiest Benefits\u2014And Derms Approve<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_15-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Two individuals applying facial moisturizer to their cheeks\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byrdie-moisturizers-tout-baa58b5d3e3848c3a99350a16b6c0242-4.webp\" title=\"byrdie-moisturizers-tout-baa58b5d3e3848c3a99350a16b6c0242-4\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byrdie-moisturizers-tout-baa58b5d3e3848c3a99350a16b6c0242-4.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Two individuals applying facial moisturizer to their cheeks\" title=\"byrdie-moisturizers-tout-baa58b5d3e3848c3a99350a16b6c0242-4\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 13 Best Noncomedogenic Moisturizers for Clear, Healthy Skin<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_16-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A teapot and two cups on a tiled surface\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/teapot-7c6b2bd9e8144860ac6bfb3a720ec517-1.webp\" title=\"teapot-7c6b2bd9e8144860ac6bfb3a720ec517-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/teapot-7c6b2bd9e8144860ac6bfb3a720ec517-1.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A teapot and two cups on a tiled surface\" title=\"teapot-7c6b2bd9e8144860ac6bfb3a720ec517-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Drinking Spearmint Tea May Help Clear Your Acne<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/main><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--two-column-right-rail sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">Humectants vs Emollients vs Occlusives: Which One Does Your Skin Need?<\/h1>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"&lt;p&gt;Jessica Fields is a beauty writer specializing in industry topics like skincare, makeup, hair, and nail trends. She got her start in media at Coveteur, where she worked as an editorial assistant, building, producing, and writing beauty and fashion stories.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Jessica Fields<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Jessica Fields\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/jlfheadshot-jessicafields-f543a234af2d4cf9a5da467f8f49a178-1.webp\" title=\"jlfheadshot-jessicafields-f543a234af2d4cf9a5da467f8f49a178-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/jlfheadshot-jessicafields-f543a234af2d4cf9a5da467f8f49a178-1.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Jessica Fields\" title=\"jlfheadshot-jessicafields-f543a234af2d4cf9a5da467f8f49a178-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nJessica Fields\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\n<p>Jessica Fields is a beauty writer specializing in industry topics like skincare, makeup, hair, and nail trends. She got her start in media at Coveteur, where she worked as an editorial assistant, building, producing, and writing beauty and fashion stories.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on January 14, 2026 08:00AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" alt=\"Person with closed eyes wearing layered necklaces\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Person with closed eyes wearing layered necklaces\" title=\"occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Stocksy<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> We all know that what&#8217;s\u00a0<em>in<\/em>\u00a0our products plays a critical role in helping us achieve our skincare goals. Among the laundry list of ingredients, three terms often come up: humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Though these words are often used on BeautyTok, remembering what each one is\u2014and what makes them unique\u2014can be tricky. <strong>To help unravel the mystery, we asked three skin experts for a complete breakdown of humectants, emollients, and occlusives.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Dr. Naana Boakye, MD, MPH, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Bergen Dermatology and Dr. Naana Boakye Skincare.<\/li>\n<li>Nichelle Temple is an NYC-based esthetician and the owner of Inderma Studio.<\/li>\n<li>Samantha Susca is a celebrity aesthetician and owner of Refinery4.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is a Humectant? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Humectants are ingredients used in topical skin care products. Their primary function is to boost hydration by drawing moisture into the skin. &#8220;Like little hydration magnets, they attract water to the skin&#8217;s surface, drawing it deep beneath it,&#8221; Temple says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> But humectants don&#8217;t just attract water\u2014they hold onto it tightly. In fact, that&#8217;s what makes them so unique. &#8220;They pull moisture from the environment, bind water to the skin, increase hydration levels, and plump the skin, helping skin look and feel more supple,&#8221; Dr. Boakye says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> That said, they are ideal for everyone, but especially for those with dry, mature, or acne-prone skin. Another important point to note about humectants is that they include a variety of ingredients you&#8217;re likely already familiar with. &#8220;Glycerin is the gold standard hydrator, as well as hyaluronic acid, algae and seaweed extracts, and propylene glycol,&#8221; says Temple.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is an Emollient? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Unlike humectants, emollients soften the skin from the outside by lubricating the skin&#8217;s surface and protecting its barrier. &#8220;They mostly work on replenishing the lipid supply of the outermost surface skin layer,&#8221; Susca says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> She explains that, although they are the opposite of humectants, they still depend on them to work optimally. &#8220;Emollients don&#8217;t hydrate the skin on their own and need humectants to attract moisture,&#8221; she adds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Temple further explains that most moisturizing products combine emollients and humectants. &#8220;There are thousands of combinations that determine the differences between rich moisturizers like creams and lotions and lightweight formulas such as fluid serums,&#8221; says Temple.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is an Occlusive? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Occlusives also sit on top of the skin and, like emollients, their primary function is to prevent water loss. According to Dr. Naana Boakye, they play a critical role in repairing and protecting the skin barrier. They&#8217;re basically a sealant, trapping moisture beneath the skin&#8217;s surface. In that vein, they neither hydrate nor moisturize it.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;With the use of an occlusive, hydration is kept locked within the skin while also acting as a protective barrier to the outside world, preventing microbes from entering,&#8221; Susca says,\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> So what makes an occlusive different from an emollient? Consistency. As Dr. Naana Boakye explains, occlusive ingredients are composed of non-polar hydrocarbons, which do not interact with water. &#8220;Think mineral oils and squalene. Other common ingredients include vegetable oils, natural waxes, silicones like dimethicone, and sterols such as cholesterol and ceramides,&#8221; she says.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Should I Add Them All to My Routine? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Given the unique properties of these ingredients, it&#8217;s easy to see why your routine would benefit from using them all. However, according to the experts, a combined approach is better than applying multiple layers of product. &#8220;You probably don&#8217;t need to use them all as separate products, but your skin will benefit from all three functions,&#8221; Dr. Boakye says. &#8220;You want hydration, barrier repair, and protection working together. Fortunately, you don&#8217;t have to work too hard to reap the rewards, since many skincare products contain some blend of these ingredients.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you are working with separate products, it&#8217;s important to consider their consistency. Humectants are necessary for all skin because they draw water into the skin. They are typically lightweight and should therefore be applied first. Emollients come next. They work in tandem with humectants and prevent water loss. Occuslive products are the thickest of the three and should be used last, allowing them to act as a seal to lock in moisture. &#8220;While all three steps aren&#8217;t always necessary, they can work synergistically depending on the skin&#8217;s needs and environment,&#8221; Susca adds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Skin<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Skin Concerns<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" alt=\"Person with closed eyes wearing layered necklaces\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Person with closed eyes wearing layered necklaces\" title=\"occlusive-f79ec795d56c41a5859e617ce878e2ca-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Stocksy<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> We all know that what&#8217;s\u00a0<em>in<\/em>\u00a0our products plays a critical role in helping us achieve our skincare goals. Among the laundry list of ingredients, three terms often come up: humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Though these words are often used on BeautyTok, remembering what each one is\u2014and what makes them unique\u2014can be tricky. <strong>To help unravel the mystery, we asked three skin experts for a complete breakdown of humectants, emollients, and occlusives.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Dr. Naana Boakye, MD, MPH, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Bergen Dermatology and Dr. Naana Boakye Skincare.<\/li>\n<li>Nichelle Temple is an NYC-based esthetician and the owner of Inderma Studio.<\/li>\n<li>Samantha Susca is a celebrity aesthetician and owner of Refinery4.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is a Humectant? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Humectants are ingredients used in topical skin care products. Their primary function is to boost hydration by drawing moisture into the skin. &#8220;Like little hydration magnets, they attract water to the skin&#8217;s surface, drawing it deep beneath it,&#8221; Temple says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> But humectants don&#8217;t just attract water\u2014they hold onto it tightly. In fact, that&#8217;s what makes them so unique. &#8220;They pull moisture from the environment, bind water to the skin, increase hydration levels, and plump the skin, helping skin look and feel more supple,&#8221; Dr. Boakye says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> That said, they are ideal for everyone, but especially for those with dry, mature, or acne-prone skin. Another important point to note about humectants is that they include a variety of ingredients you&#8217;re likely already familiar with. &#8220;Glycerin is the gold standard hydrator, as well as hyaluronic acid, algae and seaweed extracts, and propylene glycol,&#8221; says Temple.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is an Emollient? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Unlike humectants, emollients soften the skin from the outside by lubricating the skin&#8217;s surface and protecting its barrier. &#8220;They mostly work on replenishing the lipid supply of the outermost surface skin layer,&#8221; Susca says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> She explains that, although they are the opposite of humectants, they still depend on them to work optimally. &#8220;Emollients don&#8217;t hydrate the skin on their own and need humectants to attract moisture,&#8221; she adds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Temple further explains that most moisturizing products combine emollients and humectants. &#8220;There are thousands of combinations that determine the differences between rich moisturizers like creams and lotions and lightweight formulas such as fluid serums,&#8221; says Temple.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is an Occlusive? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Occlusives also sit on top of the skin and, like emollients, their primary function is to prevent water loss. According to Dr. Naana Boakye, they play a critical role in repairing and protecting the skin barrier. They&#8217;re basically a sealant, trapping moisture beneath the skin&#8217;s surface. In that vein, they neither hydrate nor moisturize it.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;With the use of an occlusive, hydration is kept locked within the skin while also acting as a protective barrier to the outside world, preventing microbes from entering,&#8221; Susca says,\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> So what makes an occlusive different from an emollient? Consistency. As Dr. Naana Boakye explains, occlusive ingredients are composed of non-polar hydrocarbons, which do not interact with water. &#8220;Think mineral oils and squalene. Other common ingredients include vegetable oils, natural waxes, silicones like dimethicone, and sterols such as cholesterol and ceramides,&#8221; she says.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Should I Add Them All to My Routine? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Given the unique properties of these ingredients, it&#8217;s easy to see why your routine would benefit from using them all. However, according to the experts, a combined approach is better than applying multiple layers of product. &#8220;You probably don&#8217;t need to use them all as separate products, but your skin will benefit from all three functions,&#8221; Dr. Boakye says. &#8220;You want hydration, barrier repair, and protection working together. Fortunately, you don&#8217;t have to work too hard to reap the rewards, since many skincare products contain some blend of these ingredients.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you are working with separate products, it&#8217;s important to consider their consistency. Humectants are necessary for all skin because they draw water into the skin. They are typically lightweight and should therefore be applied first. Emollients come next. They work in tandem with humectants and prevent water loss. Occuslive products are the thickest of the three and should be used last, allowing them to act as a seal to lock in moisture. &#8220;While all three steps aren&#8217;t always necessary, they can work synergistically depending on the skin&#8217;s needs and environment,&#8221; Susca adds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> We all know that what&#8217;s\u00a0<em>in<\/em>\u00a0our products plays a critical role in helping us achieve our skincare goals. Among the laundry list of ingredients, three terms often come up: humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Though these words are often used on BeautyTok, remembering what each one is\u2014and what makes them unique\u2014can be tricky. <strong>To help unravel the mystery, we asked three skin experts for a complete breakdown of humectants, emollients, and occlusives.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>Dr. Naana Boakye, MD, MPH, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Bergen Dermatology and Dr. Naana Boakye Skincare.<\/li>\n<li>Nichelle Temple is an NYC-based esthetician and the owner of Inderma Studio.<\/li>\n<li>Samantha Susca is a celebrity aesthetician and owner of Refinery4.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is a Humectant? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Humectants are ingredients used in topical skin care products. Their primary function is to boost hydration by drawing moisture into the skin. &#8220;Like little hydration magnets, they attract water to the skin&#8217;s surface, drawing it deep beneath it,&#8221; Temple says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> But humectants don&#8217;t just attract water\u2014they hold onto it tightly. In fact, that&#8217;s what makes them so unique. &#8220;They pull moisture from the environment, bind water to the skin, increase hydration levels, and plump the skin, helping skin look and feel more supple,&#8221; Dr. Boakye says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> That said, they are ideal for everyone, but especially for those with dry, mature, or acne-prone skin. Another important point to note about humectants is that they include a variety of ingredients you&#8217;re likely already familiar with. &#8220;Glycerin is the gold standard hydrator, as well as hyaluronic acid, algae and seaweed extracts, and propylene glycol,&#8221; says Temple.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is an Emollient? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Unlike humectants, emollients soften the skin from the outside by lubricating the skin&#8217;s surface and protecting its barrier. &#8220;They mostly work on replenishing the lipid supply of the outermost surface skin layer,&#8221; Susca says.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> She explains that, although they are the opposite of humectants, they still depend on them to work optimally. &#8220;Emollients don&#8217;t hydrate the skin on their own and need humectants to attract moisture,&#8221; she adds.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Temple further explains that most moisturizing products combine emollients and humectants. &#8220;There are thousands of combinations that determine the differences between rich moisturizers like creams and lotions and lightweight formulas such as fluid serums,&#8221; says Temple.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is an Occlusive? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Occlusives also sit on top of the skin and, like emollients, their primary function is to prevent water loss. According to Dr. Naana Boakye, they play a critical role in repairing and protecting the skin barrier. They&#8217;re basically a sealant, trapping moisture beneath the skin&#8217;s surface. In that vein, they neither hydrate nor moisturize it.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;With the use of an occlusive, hydration is kept locked within the skin while also acting as a protective barrier to the outside world, preventing microbes from entering,&#8221; Susca says,\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> So what makes an occlusive different from an emollient? Consistency. As Dr. Naana Boakye explains, occlusive ingredients are composed of non-polar hydrocarbons, which do not interact with water. &#8220;Think mineral oils and squalene. Other common ingredients include vegetable oils, natural waxes, silicones like dimethicone, and sterols such as cholesterol and ceramides,&#8221; she says.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Should I Add Them All to My Routine? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Given the unique properties of these ingredients, it&#8217;s easy to see why your routine would benefit from using them all. However, according to the experts, a combined approach is better than applying multiple layers of product. &#8220;You probably don&#8217;t need to use them all as separate products, but your skin will benefit from all three functions,&#8221; Dr. Boakye says. &#8220;You want hydration, barrier repair, and protection working together. Fortunately, you don&#8217;t have to work too hard to reap the rewards, since many skincare products contain some blend of these ingredients.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you are working with separate products, it&#8217;s important to consider their consistency. Humectants are necessary for all skin because they draw water into the skin. They are typically lightweight and should therefore be applied first. Emollients come next. They work in tandem with humectants and prevent water loss. Occuslive products are the thickest of the three and should be used last, allowing them to act as a seal to lock in moisture. &#8220;While all three steps aren&#8217;t always necessary, they can work synergistically depending on the skin&#8217;s needs and environment,&#8221; Susca adds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p> Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/humectants-emollients-and-occlusives-11879539<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Humectants vs Emollients vs Occlusives: Which One Does Your Skin Need? By Jessica Fields Jessica Fields Jessica Fields is a beauty writer specializing in industry topics like skincare, makeup, hair, and nail trends. She got her start in media at Coveteur, where she worked as an editorial assistant, building, producing, and writing beauty and fashion [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1698575,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83,226],"class_list":["post-1698574","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1698574","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1698574"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1698574\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1698575"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1698574"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1698574"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1698574"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}