Moisturisers or moisturizers (see spelling differences) are complex mixtures of chemical agents specially designed to make the external layers of the skin (epidermis) softer and more pliable, by increasing its hydration (water content) by reducing evaporation. Naturally occurring skin lipids and sterols as well as artificial or natural oils, humectants, emollients, lubricants, etc. may be part of the composition of commercial skin moisturizers. They usually are available as commercial products for cosmetic and therapeutic uses, but can also be made at home using common pharmacy ingredients.

Moisturizers prevent and treat dry skin, protect sensitive skin, improve skin tone and texture, and mask imperfections.

Risks of moisturizers

A recent study found that the application of certain moisturizers increases the incidence of skin cancer in mice. Four popular moisturizers were tested, providing the same result. It is not yet known if the same applies to humans. A fifth moisturizer, specially prepared without mineral oil and sodium lauryl sulphate, had no such effect.

Some people are sensitive or allergic to certain products, and this can cause outbreaks.

There is a risk of moisturizers being contaminated with bacteria that can cause disease.

See also

  • Corneotherapy combination of moisturizer and similar for improving skin disorders

References

  1. ^ Mayo Clinic http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/moisturizers/SN00042
  2. ^ http://www.nature.com/jid/journal/vaop/ncurrent/abs/jid2008241a.html
  3. ^ http:

    "Veet" VEET CREAM FOR SENSITIVE SKIN 100ML at Superdrug ...

    Now you can help avoid embarrassing lumps and bumps with Veet® Sensitive Skin Hair Removal Cream.

    ...

    Buy Phisoderm Cream Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, Gentle Cleanser ...

    Shop online for Phisoderm Cream Cleanser for Sensitive Skin, Gentle Cleanser at drugstore.com today, where you will find a huge selection of acne products, in addition to lots of ...

    ...

    CLARINS BEAUTY PRODUCT - White Plus HP Hydrating Whitening Aqua-Milk ...

    Discover Clarins beauty and care products : White Plus HP Hydrating Whitening Aqua-MilkThe first beauty step… a wonderful, milky toning lotion for bright, luminous skin, with ...

    ...

    Sensitive Skin Care - Cream Cleanser for Sensitive Skin

    Clean & Clear® sensitive skin care treatment cleans deep down to the pores gently, without over-drying, leaving skin soft and smooth.

    ...

    Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Cream

    Lily Organics Cafe for skin care problems ... We deliberately formulated this unscented cream with as few ingredients as possible.

    ...

    Buy Olay Olay Moisture Therapy Cream with Aloe, Sensitive Skin Online ...

    Shop online for Olay Olay Moisture Therapy Cream with Aloe, Sensitive Skin at drugstore.com today, where you will find a huge selection of all lotions products, in addition to lots ...

    ...

    Noxzema Shaving Cream - Sensitive Skin

    Noxzema Medicated Shave for sensitive skin soothes and protects your skin as you remove hair. Purchase Noxzema shaving creme at ShopInPrivate.com. We ship discreetly and never ...

    ...

    Soothing Sensitive Skin Cream

    Calm and hydrate for an even complexion! Smoothly textured, Sensitive Skin Care Cream alleviates and heals erythema. This triphase and homogenized cream offers vaso-constricting ...

    ...

    Sensitive Soothing Day Cream - NIVEA

    Sensitive skin is very delicate and more susceptible to everyday external influences such as the sun and temperature changes (heat, cold, dry, dry- heating etc.). It may also react ...

    ...

    pHisoderm - Cream Cleanser for Sensitive Skin

    pHisoderm Official Site. For a simple solution to skin care, check out pHisoderm, a complete line of pH balanced cleansers, toners and moisturizers that work together to meet your ...

    ...