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

Moisturizing Ingredients Moisturizing is an obvious aim of hand cream, and there are three types of moisturizing ingredients with varying functions: occlusives, humectants and emollients. —L.a. Hubilla, People.com, 1 Oct. 2024

The formula is chock-full of humectants, which draw moisture into the skin to leave it feeling hydrated and plump. —Zoe Weiner, Glamour, 25 Sep. 2024

Your skin will feel conditioned by the blend of humectants like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B, and amino acids. —Venus Wong, refinery29.com, 18 June 2024

A lot of balms contain humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid—which are great for pulling water into the skin. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 7 Oct. 2024

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

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