humectant

noun

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt 

: a substance that promotes retention of moisture

humectant adjective

Examples of humectant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For one, the serum-like skin tint is packed with skin care benefits, including polyglutamic acid to deeply hydrate and improve the skin barrier, as well as several forms of hyaluronic acid, another moisture-locking humectant that hydrates and plumps the skin for a firmer, softer feel. —Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 3 June 2026

The star ingredients of Skintimate’s Fragrance Free 2-in-1 Shave Oil + Moisturizer are ideal for creating just that, pairing vitamin E—which is both a water-attracting humectant and water-trapping emollient—along with shea, almond, and jojoba oils. —Eden Stuart, Allure, 29 May 2026

According to Yadav, humectants are the key ingredients to prioritize in a foundation for mature skin. —Jenny Berg, Glamour, 29 May 2026

This acts as a shield to lock moisture in, preventing that precious water your humectants just gathered from evaporating into the room. —Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 28 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin humectant-, humectans, present participle of humectare to moisten, from humectus moist, from humēre to be moist — more at humor entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1867, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for humectant

• expectant
• protectant
• disinfectant

Medical Definition

humectant

1 of 2 adjective

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt 

: promoting the retention of moisture

humectant properties

humectant materials

humectant

2 of 2 noun

: a substance (as glycerol or sorbitol) that promotes retention of moisture