Humectants

Also known as:  Moisturizers;  Wetting Agents

Humectants are a group of Food Additives and are also used in many Cosmetics products.

Cosmetics/Toiletries

 Many commercial Cosmetics, Cosmeceuticals and Toiletries contain Humectants.  Their function is to increase the Water content of the Skin (and prevent or temporarily treat Dry Skin).  They act by penetrating the Stratum Corneum layer of the Skin and increasing the amount of Water that is held in this layer.

Food Processing

 Humectants are utilized in the manufacture of some Processed Foods in order to prevent them from drying out.  Some of the Processed Foods that normally include a humectant include:

 Coconut (shredded)

 Confectionery

 Gelatin

 Glycerol

 Hyaluronic Acid

 Propylene Glycol

 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

 Sorbitol