It may sound like an alien species from Planet Humecta, but humectant is more common than you know. 

It has been a staple ingredient in beauty products and cosmetics for decades. If you check the ingredients list of your favorite moisturizer or body wash, you’ll likely find a humectant on the list.

But what is this element used for? And what benefits and properties does it have?

What Are Humectants Exactly?

Humectants are common moisturizing agents that you can find in your lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and lip balms. They are also great for maintaining the quality and shelf-life of cosmetics and other beauty products. 

However, not all of them work to the same measure. Some are better for moisturizing your skin and hair, while others are better for improving the quality of a product. There are also those that do both.

How Do They Work?

Think of these ingredients as kinds of magnets. 

They attract water, take moisture from the air, and use it to moisturize the dermis’ upper layer. This causes your skin to look less flaky and reduces cracking and chafing, making them suitable for dry skin conditions like eczema. 

For hair, they work in the same way, drawing moisture into the hair. This makes them great for hair products aimed at curly or kinky hair since the moisture helps remove frizz and dryness. 

Depending on which one you go for, some will directly moisturize your skin and hair, while others will help you get rid of dead skin cells and act as an exfoliant. 

Despite the similar properties, these moisture magnets aren’t always interchangeable between skin and hair. You’ll need to find the one that works as a targeted solution for the condition you want improve.

The Two Types Of Humectants & Their Benefits

There are two main kinds of this cosmetic element – artificial synthetics or organic ones. Each kind has unique properties.

Synthetic

These kinds are made by scientists. They’re best used for personal care products like conditioners, skin cleansers, creams, lotions, anti-frizz serums, and hair sprays.

Synthetic versions have a much longer shelf life than natural ones, but they can only lock in moisture to a certain degree. 

The synthetics don’t quite carry any of the nutrients and benefits that the naturals do. So, they are more commonly used to improve the quality and efficiency of the products instead of actually improving your skin or hair. 

If used too often, they can also end up drying out your skin, so be careful. 

Common synthetics include: 

• Sorbitol
• Sodium PCA
• Sodium Lactate
• Tremella Extract
• Urea

Naturals

Unlike synthetics, natural humectants can both draw moisture to the skin and improve the skin’s natural hydration. In simple terms, naturals promote the moisture production of the skin and encourage new cells to grow. 

Aloe vera is a great example of a natural version, and you can find it in many hair care products, lotions, masks, and creams. Aloe is also great for soothing skin irritations and burns and can be found in ointments, creams, and more. 

Honey is another popular natural. Despite its appearance, it actually has a non-oily additive, so it won’t make your hair or skin appear greasy. 

Naturals contain vital nutrients that improve the texture and strength of your skin and hair. Often, you can use them raw or as an ingredient in a product.

In Summary

Humectants are a great addition to any skin or hair care routine. But, as with most things, they are best used in moderation, especially the synthetic versions. 

If you are thinking of adding them to your routine, we would advise you to go with the natural kind and limit the use of synthetics. After all, while synthetics improve the quality of your products, they hold no nutritional value for your skin or hair. 

On the other hand, naturals are great if you want to improve the long-term health of your hair and skin. They draw moisture and keep your hair and skin hydrated; which beauty queen wouldn’t want that?