Humectants- ✅⠀
Emollients – ✅⠀
Occlusives – Almost Done.⠀
Getting to know which humectants- emollients and occlusives work well for your skin can be a great bonus. Occlusives are generally the largest of the three in molecular size and usually sit on top of the skin creating a seal-like barrier to prevent moisture loss otherwise known as TEWL (transepidermal water loss). ⠀
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Those with greater tendencies for dry skins or who are following a retinol regime may notice the need for extra occlusives as they combat dry, tight and flaky skin. Occlusives can provide this temporary comfort whilst some ingredients can work to repair the skin. ⠀
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Yet if like me you are breakout-prone and you see Avocado Oils higher up on the Inci list then knowing which occlusives are really a no-no for you is also important. 🔆 For example, a rich in Avacado Oil serum will almost always lead me to breakouts even if this house in a retinoid formulation (as was the case with the Rejuvi A Serum) yet for those with drier skins they may want to look out for these more occlusive ingredients especially in a Vitamin A serum to counteract the potential drying effects. I can easily see many drier skins really enjoying this serum.⠀
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A good moisturiser will generally always include some level of occlusives as well as humectants and emollients. Personally I prefer less occlusive more emollient products so that I can layer accordingly with a good generous layer of SPF. Above you will see a list of popular occlusives that can also include mineral oils, some dimethicones and petrolatum (which are popular in doctor/clinical-grade treatments because of their inertness) or heavier plant and nuts oils like macadamia.⠀
Which occlusives do you love?⠀
Or which occlusive ingredients do you absolutely avoid especially if you are breakout prone?⠀
