Dry Skin Care Products Should Always Include Natural Humectants

Although humectants are not new, the word is just becoming known in the laymans skin care vocabulary. As a technology, humectants are light years ahead of emollients previously thought of as the most effective way to moisturize the skin - as they have unique properties that actually draw water into the skin rather than simply making it feel less dry. However, some humectants are toxic and, if natural dry skin care is important to you, you should know which humectants are safe for the skin.

First of all, lets look at the difference between a humectant and an emollient. Many emollients used in skin care products mineral oil and petroleum being the most common - coat the skin with a greasy substance that make the surface of the skin feel smooth and soft but do not increase the moisture content. Humectants, on the other hand, attract water from the air, hold it within a substance, and then slowly release the moisture into the skin. Obviously, that is much more beneficial when it comes to dry skin care.

However, regardless of their ability to moisturize, some humectants are harsh industrial chemicals not suitable for natural skin care. Propylene glycol, for example, is used in anti-freeze, brake fluid, paint and floor wax. It is also used in cosmetics and lotions because of its humectant properties - it enhances absorption of moisture and also facilitates the absorption into the skin of the other ingredients. However, propylene oxide, of which propylene glycol is a derivative, is known to actually cause eczema, rashes and dry skin and is classified as a carcinogen in EPAs Toxic Release Inventory. Per the EPA, if it is inhaled or ingested, or makes eye or skin contact, it can irritate the eyes, upper respiratory system, lungs, and skin.

When choosing skin care products, you should always ensure that humectants are in the ingredients. However, make sure to stay away from propylene glycol. Instead, choose products with vegetable glycerin, vitamin E, panthenol (a form of pantothenic acid - Vitamin B5), collagen and elastin. These humectants are safe and natural and provide the dry skin care you need without causing further damage.

Author, Gloria MacTaggart, is a freelance writer who contributes articles on skin care for The National Skin Care Institute. For more information, visit http://www.skincarenet.org

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