Emollients soften skin (and moisturisers add moisture). They are used to correct dryness and scaling of the skin. Model of the layers of human skin In zootomy and dermatology, skin is an organ of the integumentary system; which is composed of a layer of tissues that protect underlying muscles and organs. ...
The terms 'moisturiser' (to add moisture) and 'emollient' (to soften) are interchangeable as they describe different effects of these agents on the skin.
Basically they have two actions:
Occlusives which provide a layer of oil on the surface of the skin to slow water loss and thus increase the moisture content of the stratum corneum.
Humectants which are substances introduced into the stratum corneum to increase its water holding capacity.
Some moisturisers contain both occlusives and humectants. Oil is a generic term for organic liquids that are not miscible with water. ... The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, and comprises the surface of the skin. ... Jump to: navigation, search Water (from the Old English word wæter; c. ... Moisturizers are a complex mixture of chemical agents specially designed to make softer and more pliable the external layers of the skin (epidermis), by increasing its hydration (water content). ...
Smegma, a transliteration of the Greek word for soap, is a combination of exfoliated (shed) epithelial cells, transudated skin oils and moisture that can accumulate under the foreskin of males and within the female vulva area, with a characteristic strong odor and taste. ... Lanolin, a grease from wool-bearing animals, acts as a skin ointment, water-proofing wax, and raw material (such as in shoe polish). ...
emollient The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology...
Clobetasol propionate 0.05% lotion in the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis: a randomized evaluation versus clobetasol propionate emollient cream.
transferable to the wearer's skin, the emollient composition is made from a substantially...
If your skin is really dry, especially in the winter, and you are looking for an emollient bath, try this wonderful recipe.
For my forty-something skin I found apricot kernel oil to be the most soothing and emollient.
Great oils for dry skin include apricot kernel oil, avocado oil (this oil is very lush and rich, and is especially good for old, dry skin, but a little goes a long way), almond oil, flax seed oil, and jojoba oil.
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