Moisturizer facts for kids
A moisturizer is a special cream or lotion that helps keep your skin soft and smooth. It's especially helpful if your skin feels dry. Moisturizers work by adding water to your skin and stopping it from drying out too quickly.
These products can be made from a mix of different ingredients. They might contain natural fats found in skin, called lipids, or other types of oils. Some ingredients help make your skin feel soft (these are called emollients), and others help it feel smooth (these are called lubricants).
You don't always need to use a moisturizer. They are most helpful for people who have dry skin. Moisturizers help your skin stay hydrated, which is important for keeping it healthy and protected.
How Moisturizers Work
Moisturizers help your skin in a few main ways:
- Occlusives create a thin layer on top of your skin. This layer acts like a shield, stopping moisture from leaving your skin.
- Humectants are ingredients that attract water vapor from the air. They pull this moisture into your skin, helping to keep it hydrated.
- Some moisturizers also add important materials that your skin might be missing. These ingredients help to restore the natural things that keep your skin moist and healthy.
