humectant

hu·mec·tant | \ hyü-ˈmek-tənt

How to pronounce humectant (audio)

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Definition of humectant

: a substance that promotes retention of moisture

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Examples of humectant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This one contains things like glycerin (a classic humectant) and argan oil that help my skin feel hydrated without any greasiness. — Sarah Jacoby, SELF, "This SPF 30 Moisturizer Turned Me Into a Mineral Sunscreen Fan," 23 Aug. 2019 Shea butter is the star ingredient here, plus the humectant glycerin that draws moisture into your skin. — Jenna Rosenstein, Harper's BAZAAR, "I Used Only Kylie Skin Products For a Whole Week. Here's My Honest Review.," 29 May 2019 First, humectants, such as glycerin, are often found in moisturizers and actually add water back to the skin, John G. Zampella, M.D., assistant professor in the Ronald O. Perelman department of dermatology at NYU Langone Health, tells SELF. — Jenn Sinrich, SELF, "What You Should Know Before Using a Trendy New Face Oil," 13 Mar. 2019 These humectants grab onto moisture and help hold it in the skin. — Rachel Jacoby Zoldan, SELF, "Does Face Mist Actually Do Anything for Your Skin?," 25 May 2018 Try a cream with a humectant, like glycerin, which attracts moisture to skin. — Melissa Matthews, Woman's Day, "The Foolproof Anti-Aging Skin Routine," 24 Aug. 2015 Use a cream that lists water as the first or second ingredient and also has humectants, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, to lock in moisture. — Alina Dizik, Woman's Day, "Fight Signs of Aging While You Sleep," 10 Sep. 2012 And instead of hydrating, occlusive ingredients trap humectants and emollients onto your skin, so your skin can stay hydrated and soft throughout the day. — Ashley Weatherford, The Cut, "Everything You Need to Know About Putting Oils on Your Face," 12 July 2018 The most popular and effective humectants are glycerin and hyaluronic acid. — Ashley Weatherford, The Cut, "Everything You Need to Know About Putting Oils on Your Face," 12 July 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'humectant.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Humectant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/humectant. Accessed 7 Apr. 2020.

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