Moisturizing agent

Moisturizing agents are a broad class of topical substances designed to maintain or restore the skin's hydration and physiological barrier function [6]. Rather than being a single molecular target like a receptor or enzyme, they represent a functional category of pharmacological agents used extensively in dermatology [1, 14]. These agents are typically classified into three functional groups: occlusives, which form a hydrophobic film to prevent transepidermal water loss; humectants, which attract and bind water molecules within the stratum corneum; and emollients, which soften the skin by filling gaps between desquamating corneocytes [4, 6, 15]. In clinical practice, moisturizing agents are essential for managing conditions characterized by barrier impairment, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and xerosis [3, 6]. Beyond simple hydration, some formulations may modulate biological processes like inflammation, pruritus, and wound healing through the regulation of cytokines and skin lipids [14, 15]. While generally safe, their use can be complicated by safety concerns such as contact dermatitis, allergic reactions to preservatives or fragrances, and acneigenicity [2, 5, 8].

Other names

MoisturizerEmollientHumectantOcclusiveHydrating agent

Moisturizing agents work through three primary mechanisms: occlusion, where hydrophobic substances form a physical barrier to trap water; humectancy, where hygroscopic substances attract and bind water in the stratum corneum; and emolliency, where lipids fill gaps between skin cells to smooth the skin surface [4, 6, 15].