Share

 A moisturizer, is a cosmetic preparation used for protecting, and lubricating the skin. These functions are normally performed by sebum produced by healthy skin.

There are many different types of moisturizers. Petrolatum is one of the most effective moisturizers, although it can be unpopular due to its oily consistency.Other popular moisturizers are cetyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, cocoa butter, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, lanolin, liquid paraffin, polyethylene glycols, shea butter, silicone oils, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol and castor oil, as well as other oils.Moisturizers may also be available as lotions, creams, ointments, bath oils, or soap substitutes.Mineral oils and waxes are insensitive to oxidation or rancidity. 

For this reason, they have essentially replaced vegetable oils in emollients and topical medication.Moisturizer cosmetics may additionally contain antioxidants, ceramides, emulsifiers, fragrances, penetration enhancers, preservatives, and solvents. Some products are marketed as having anti-wrinkle and skin enhancement effects. Many plant and animal extracts have been claimed to impart skin benefits, with little scientific evidence.

Moisturizers are used for the treatment of certain skin diseases, such as psoriasis, ichthyosis vulgaris, xerosis, and pruritus in atopic dermatitis. More often, they are bases or vehicles for topical medication, such as in Whitfield’s ointment. They are often combined with humectants, such as salicylic acid and urea.Moisturizers are also widely used in sunscreens, antiperspirants, skin cleansers, shaving creams, aftershaves, and hair tonics.Moisturizers are used in disposable diapers to prevent dry skin and diaper dermatitis.

A Cochrane review noted that moisturizers show some beneficial effects in eczema. The same review did not find evidence that one moisturizer is better than another. Moisturisers can improve skin comfort and may reduce disease flares on atopic dermatitis. They can be used as leave-on treatments, bath additives or soap substitutes. There are many different products but the majority of leave-on treatments (least to most greasy) are lotions, creams, gels or ointments. None of the different types of moisturisers are more effective than the others so people need to choose one or more products that suit them, according to their age, body site effected, climate/season and personal preference.

Moisturizers containing some aromas or food additives may trigger an immune reaction or even cause users to develop new allergies.There is currently no regulation over use of the term “hypoallergenic”, and even pediatric skin products with the label were found to still contain allergens.Those with eczema are especially vulnerable to an allergic reaction with lotions and creams, as their compromised skin barrier allows preservatives to bind with and activate immune cells.

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology released a warning in 2014 that natural lotion containing ingredients commonly found in food (such as goats milk, cow’s milk, coconut milk, or oil) may introduce new allergies, and an allergic reaction when those foods are later consumed. A paper published in 2021 by researchers at St. George’s, University of London found that frequent skin moisturization in early life might promote the development of food allergy.

 

Photo Credit: Shutterstock