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

Emollients such as petrolatum can also help to lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier, as can humectants, which draw water into skin. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 20 Jan. 2026

Another notable addition to the foundation is glycerin, an emollient and humectant that helps draw in moisture and lock it in place. —Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29, 16 Jan. 2026

When paired with humectants and gentle actives like the ones in this body butter, shea butter is an all-around powerhouse for supple, hydrated skin. —Essence Wiley, InStyle, 11 Jan. 2026

Look for something thicker with humectants such as glycerin, emollients such as ceramides and occlusives such as shea butter. —Jackie Fields, PEOPLE, 30 Dec. 2025

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