Dry Skin Care Products Should Always Include Natural Humectants
First of all, let's look at the difference between a humectant and an emollient. Many emollients used in skin care products - mineral oil and petroleum being the most common - coat the skin with a greasy substance that make the surface of the skin feel smooth and soft but do not increase the moisture content. Humectants, on the other hand, attract water from the air, hold it within a substance, and then slowly release the moisture into the skin. Obviously, that is much more beneficial when it comes to dry skin care.
However, regardless of their ability to moisturize, some humectants are harsh industrial chemicals not suitable for natural skin care. Propylene glycol, for example, is used in anti-freeze, brake fluid, paint and floor wax. It is also used in cosmetics and lotions because of its humectant properties - it enhances absorption of moisture and also facilitates the absorption into the skin of the other ingredients. However, propylene oxide, of which propylene glycol is a derivative, is known to actually cause eczema, rashes and dry skin and is classified as a carcinogen in EPA's Toxic Release Inventory. Per the EPA, if it is inhaled or ingested, or makes eye or skin contact, it can irritate the eyes, upper respiratory system, lungs, and skin.
When choosing skin care products, you should always ensure that humectants are in the ingredients. However, make sure to stay away from propylene glycol. Instead, choose products with vegetable glycerin, vitamin E, panthenol (a form of pantothenic acid - Vitamin B5), collagen and elastin. These humectants are safe and natural and provide the dry skin care you need without causing further damage.
Related Tags: skin care, natural skin care, dry skin, dry skin care, dry skin treatment, skin care treatment, natu
Author Gloria MacTaggart is a freelance writer who contributes articles on skin care for The National Skin Care Institute. For more information visit =>http://www.skincarenet.org Your Article Search Directory : Find in Articles
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