Emollients

Emollients – wholesale
Emollients are substances with moisturizing, softening, and protective properties, used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals for skin and hair care. The term “emollient” comes from the Latin word emolliere, meaning “to soften”. They are used especially in the care of dry, sensitive, or atopic skin, as they help rebuild the skin’s hydrolipid barrier.
Functions and action of emollients
Emollients form a protective layer by creating an occlusive coating on the skin surface, protecting against water loss (TEWL – transepidermal water loss) and safeguarding against external factors. Additionally, emollients soften the epidermis and strengthen the natural lipid barrier.

Emollients work through several basic mechanisms – through occlusion, forming a protective film on the skin surface that prevents water evaporation (e.g., petrolatum, mineral oils); through lipid replenishment (e.g., shea butter, vegetable oils); and through softening and smoothing rough areas of skin. Additionally, many modern emollients contain ingredients with anti-inflammatory (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids) and regenerative (e.g., ceramides) properties, making them effective in the care of problematic skin.