Emollient: know what it is and what are the main types

Creams are usually formulated with at least one emollient, which can be vegetable oils, fatty acids (omega 6 and 3) or non-fatty lipids. But do you know what the function is and what types of emollients? Beautician and cosmetologist Beatriz Berna clarified doubts and oriented on how to use them. Follow the article!

What is emollient?

“The emollient is a non-greasy oily and lipid compound that moisturizes and restores the oiliness of dry skin. It prevents the evaporation of water through the formation of an occlusive film, generating the activation of local circulation”, explains the cosmetologist.

According to Beatriz, “the emollient fills the ‘spaces’ in the skin cells, so the product is easily spread.” Humectants retain about 70% of the water, so it’s ideal to use them when the skin is damp, so you don’t lose moisture easily. Moisturizers by occlusive agents, in turn, form a layer that delays water loss and leaves the skin looking brighter and stickier.

types of emollients

Next, you can see the main types of emollients and what they are indicated for. Check it out:

• Grapeseed oil: it is widely used in cosmetic formulations for sagging and prevention of stretch marks in pregnant women, in concentrations of 2 to 10%.
• Shea butter: is a natural emollient agent that protects the skin, providing a velvety and smoothing sensation. It is used in concentrations of 1 to 5%.
• Vaseline: has emollient property, softens and lubricates the skin with protective action.
• Macadamia oil: it has emollient, moisturizing and regenerative properties and is used in the range of 0.5 to 5% in cosmetic products.
• Rosehip oil: it is used to soften wrinkles and expression lines, moisturize the skin, prevent premature aging and the development of stretch marks in pregnancy. It is used in concentrations of 2 to 10%.

More and more, people are purchasing cosmetics that have this active in their formulation. Emollients provide a better texture than other types of moisturizers.

how to use emollients

In addition to moisturizing and restoring oil to dry skin, emollients can also be used as a makeup remover or after-sun lotion. Some of them have antioxidant action, which prevents and helps to reduce the signs of aging. Other emollients, of natural origin, are used in the treatment of acnes, as they help to control the excessive oiliness of the skin.

Normally, creams, shampoos, conditioners and hydrating masks have emollient properties to hydrate the hair and make it softer and with a lighter texture. The most suitable natural emollients for this purpose are vegetable oils and butters, such as jojoba, castor and avocado. They nourish and restore capillary scales, penetrating the hair strands.

homemade emollients

According to the cosmetologist, there are natural emollients, mainly vegetable ones. “Almond is widely used to moisturize the skin, prevent stretch marks in pregnancy and can also be used as a makeup remover.” Another option is wheat germ oil: very useful for healing burns and injuries and for moisturizing dry knees and elbows. “Jojoba oil helps in the treatment of acne and inflamed skin”, adds Beatriz.

Now that you know what it’s for and what the main emollients are, it’s just a matter of enjoying its benefits. Enjoy and learn more about vegetable oil, a powerful ally for your health and beauty.