An emollient, typically some type of oil or lipid, fills in any gaps between skin cells. It directly softens and smooths the skin’s surface, giving the complexion a plumper, healthier, more radiant appearance. In doing so, an emollient helps strengthen the outer barrier: those cracks are “mended,” so to speak, and thus prevents against the dryness, inflammation, and redness caused by external factors (heat, air conditioning, sun exposure, etc.)
Emollients are best suited for drier or mature skin types which are lacking in oil. These lipids help restore the outermost layer of skin, smoothing fine lines and/or gaps to create an occlusive, protective barrier.
Popular emollients include:
