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Humectant, Emollient and Occlusive: Decoding Your Moisturizer Label

What you need to know about the different types of moisturizers and how to use them
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Occlusive Moisturizers

"Occlusive moisturizers are best suited for the body — it can cause breakouts on the face," says Patel. "It is excellent in keeping moisture in and best used after bathing," she adds, also explaining that it's great for people with very dry skin and/or eczema.

Image via Imaxtree



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Lanolips Lano Rose Hand Cream, $19.95

Lanolin counts as both an occlusive and emollient, and it's part of what makes this hand cream so effective. It soaks into your hands with almost instantly and you can actually feel the moisture-retaining barrier form — though have no fear, it's so comfortable to wear and not at all greasy.

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SkinCeuticals Hydra Balm, $23

Formulated for skin post-surgery, this ultra-hydrating face balm is actually formulated mainly with petrolatum — making it a real no-nonsense occlusive moisturizer. Its simplicity makes it great for sensitive skin and it can make for a great moisturizing treatment if you've got extra dry skin.

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Aquaphor Healing Ointment, $6.99

We all love our bells and whistles but when it comes to basics, there's no beating Aquaphor. It's the best lip mask/balm, it cures dry patches in a flash and some even like to use it to help heal minor wounds and acne. Thanks to the petrolatum base, it's pretty much the occlusive moisturizer to end all occlusive moisturizers — though it also includes emollient ingredients like mineral oil and lanolin, as well as humectants like glycerin.

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If you have any sensitivity to petrolatum or mineral oil, but are in need of a great occlusive moisturizer, look no further than this gem from Babo Botanicals. With the beeswax and shea butter in the formula, it creates a great skin-saving barrier that helps soothe eczema and stubborn dry patches.

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BY ROSIE NARASAKI | FEB 23, 2018 | SHARES
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