What is the difference between occlusive and humectant moisturizers?
Occlusives work by retaining the water that is already present on the skin and locking it in. Some occlusive agents found in various products include lanolin, mineral oil, and petrolatum. Humectants work by attracting water to the top layer of skin from the lower layers. Glycerin, urea, and alpha hydroxyl acids, such as lactic and glycolic acid, act as humectants.
