Moisture Barrier Support System

Function: Attract, maintain, and seal hydration in skin.

The Three Pillars of Hydration:

Humectants (Water Attractors):

• Hyaluronic Acid:
  • Holds up to 1000x its weight in water
  • Multiple molecular weights: Low (penetrates deeper), High (surface hydration)
  • Ideal Concentration: 0.1-2%
• Glycerin: Classic humectant, cost-effective, well-tolerated
• Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): Humectant, anti-inflammatory, healing
• Sodium PCA: Natural skin component, highly effective

Emollients (Smoothers):

• Ceramides: Natural skin lipids, repair barrier function
  • Types: Ceramide NP, AP, EOP
  • Benefits: Restores barrier, reduces moisture loss
• Plant Oils:
  • High Linoleic Acid (good for oily/acne-prone): Rosehip, hemp, grapeseed
  • High Oleic Acid (good for dry skin): Olive, avocado, sweet almond
• Squalane: Lightweight, non-comedogenic, mimics skin’s natural oil
• Fatty Acids: Linoleic, oleic, palmitic acids

Occlusives (Moisture Sealers):

• Petrolatum: Most effective occlusive (99% moisture retention)
• Dimethicone: Silicone-based, non-comedogenic, smooths texture
• Natural Butters: Shea, cocoa, mango (provide additional nutrients)
• Waxes: Beeswax, carnauba, candelilla

Barrier Repair Ingredients:

• Ceramide Complexes: Often combined with cholesterol and fatty acids
• Niacinamide: Increases natural ceramide production
• Centella Asiatica: Soothes while strengthening barrier
• Oat Extract: Anti-inflammatory, protective

Application Strategy:

• Layering: Humectant → Emollient → Occlusive (thinnest to thickest)
• Climate Adjustment: Heavier occlusives in dry climates/winter
• Skin Type Matching: Light emollients for oily skin, rich formulas for dry skin
• Day vs. Night: Lighter layers under sunscreen, richer treatments at night