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

Centella asiatica and tocopherol work together for hydration, which lactic acid acts as a humectant to lock in moisture and retain a lustrous look. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 18 Aug. 2026

Hydrolyzed collagen acts as a humectant to retain moisture, while adenosine smooths the appearance of fine lines. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 15 Aug. 2026

The benefits come from smoothing and conditioning agents like phenyl trimethicone, a silicone that provides heat protection, and glycerin, a humectant that combats dryness. — Essence Wiley, InStyle, 3 Aug. 2026

Oils, proteins, humectants, ceramides, antioxidants—all these buzzwords actually mean something. — Anya Meyerowitz, Glamour, 2 Aug. 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