Emollient Humektant ve Oklude Edici: Nemlendirmenin Üç Katmanı

Emollient, Humectant, and Occlusive: The Three Layers of Moisturizing

What are emollients, humectants, and occlusives? Emollient, humectant, and occlusive are moisturizing ingredient categories that support skin's moisture balance through three different mechanisms: humectants draw water from the atmosphere and from within the skin, emollients soften skin by filling stratum corneum lipid gaps, and occlusives form a physical film on the surface that blocks transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Using these three layers together in balance delivers not just instant hydration, but lasting barrier integrity. CIRÈLL formulations bring these three ingredients together at biomimetic ratios to mimic the skin's own moisture management system.

Key Facts

  • Humectants can draw water directly from the atmosphere to skin at above 50% relative humidity; glycerol's moisture-binding capacity is roughly 2-3 water molecules per molecule.
  • Occlusives can reduce TEWL by 40-98%; petrolatum is considered the clinical reference material with the highest occlusive efficacy.
  • Emollients fill intercellular lipid lamellae in the stratum corneum, lowering the friction coefficient and clinically reducing roughness by 30-60% over 4 weeks of use.
  • The CIRÈLL Biomimetic TriBarrier System combines ceramide, cholesterol, and free fatty acid ratios at a physiological 1:1:1 weight ratio to support barrier repair.
  • Application order is critical: applying humectant first, then emollient, then occlusive to damp skin maximizes layering efficiency.

Why Isn't One Ingredient Enough for Moisturizing?

Skin's moisture balance is the product of three connected but functionally distinct biological processes: drawing in water, holding water, and preventing water loss. Each of these three processes requires a separate molecular strategy — which is why a single "moisturizing" ingredient can't meet every need.

The stratum corneum is made up of roughly 15-20 keratinocyte layers and needs to maintain a water content of 20-35%. Below this range, skin hardens, loses elasticity, and barrier function begins to break down. Research shows that once stratum corneum water content drops below 10%, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) rises markedly and inflammatory cytokine release is triggered.

The Limits of Single-Ingredient Products

A product containing only a humectant draws water to the skin's surface, but can't hold it there — it evaporates quickly and can paradoxically leave skin even drier. A formulation using only an occlusive traps existing moisture, but its effectiveness drops if moisture is insufficient to begin with. Emollient-heavy products deliver softness but don't address active water-drawing or water-loss prevention.

This is why modern dermocosmetic science is built on the simultaneous combination of all three functions. As covered in detail in the CIRÈLL Moisturizer Guide, understanding ingredient categories is the first step to choosing the right moisturizer.

The Relationship Between the Barrier and Moisturizing

The stratum corneum's water-retention capacity depends heavily on its lamellar lipid structure. When this structure — made up of ceramide, cholesterol, and free fatty acids — breaks down, both water-drawing capacity drops and TEWL rises rapidly. So effective moisturizing first requires a healthy skin barrier; the humectant-emollient-occlusive trio both repairs and supports this barrier.

Humectants: Skin's Water-Drawing Mechanism

Humectants are compounds that bind water molecules around them thanks to their hydrophilic (water-attracting) structure. Their working mechanism relies on holding water molecules through hydrogen bonds.

Main Humectant Types and Properties

Humectant Molecular Weight Key Property Effect on Humidity
Glycerin (Glycerol) 92 Da The most studied humectant; compatible with NMF Effective in every environment
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) 50 kDa – 2 MDa Binds 1000x its weight in water; low-MW form has deeper effect All environments, low to high humidity
Propylene Glycol 76 Da Humectant and penetration enhancer Moderate-to-high humidity environments
Panthenol (Pro-Vit B5) 205 Da Both humectant and soothing; supports NMF Stable in all environments
Urea (5-10%) 60 Da Both humectant and mild keratolytic Ideal for dry-to-very-dry skin
Sodium PCA 151 Da A component of the natural moisturizing factor (NMF) Optimal in moderate environments

Humectant Working Depth and the Importance of Molecular Weight

Low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (<50 kDa) can penetrate deeper stratum corneum layers, while high-MW forms (>1 MDa) stay on the surface film, providing surface hydration and a temporary plumping feel.Papakonstantinou et al., 2012 This is why multi-molecular-weight (multi-MW) HA formulations are preferred for both surface and relatively deeper effect.

Panthenol, as a precursor form of D-pantothenic acid, penetrates the skin and supports synthesis of NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor) components. Looking into panthenol's effects on the skin barrier shows that this molecule doesn't just hold moisture — it also supports barrier lipid synthesis.

The Humectant Paradox in Low-Humidity Environments

In dry climates or heated indoor environments where relative humidity drops below 40%, strong humectants (glycerin at high concentrations in particular) can't draw enough water from the atmosphere and instead pull it from the stratum corneum's deeper layers — temporarily increasing surface moisture while drying out deeper layers. This paradox is the most important evidence that humectants must always be paired with emollients and occlusives.Rawlings & Matts, 2005

emollient, humectant, and occlusive: the three layers of moisturizing — cream application | CIRÈLL
A healthy skin barrier depends on using the right ingredients together.

Emollients: The Building Blocks That Fill the Gaps

The word "emollient" comes from the Latin "emollire" (to soften), and describes compounds that smooth out roughness, reduce friction, and give skin a flexible look by filling intercellular gaps in the stratum corneum.

The Emollient Mechanism: Understanding Lipid Lamellar Architecture

In a healthy stratum corneum, the space between keratinocyte cells is filled with lipid lamellae made up of ceramide (50%), cholesterol (25%), and free fatty acids (15%). When this structure breaks down, gaps form between cells; emollients fill these gaps, temporarily or permanently supporting barrier function.Elias, 2005

The stratum corneum isn't just a passive barrier — it's a dynamic, self-repairing defense system. Together, these defensive functions form skin's first and most critical protection against the outside world.Elias, 2005

Emollients fall into two categories:

  • Surface emollients (light film): Isopropyl myristate, C12-15 alkyl benzoate — light texture, fast spreading.
  • Deep-filling emollients (lipid replenishment): Ceramides, cholesterol, phytosphingosine — integrate into intercellular lipid gaps.

The Roles of Ceramide, Cholesterol, and Free Fatty Acids

Ceramides are sphingolipids in which a sphingoid base is joined to a fatty acid chain by an amide bond. Twelve ceramide subtypes (CER1-CER12) have been identified in human skin; among them, CER[EOS] and CER[NS] play a critical role in barrier formation. Ceramide content has been shown to drop by 40-50% in many skin conditions, notably atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and aging skin.van Smeden et al., 2014

Cholesterol regulates the fluidity of the lipid bilayer; free fatty acids (particularly saturated C16-C24 chains) control the tightness of the lamellar structure. Understanding how ceramide components are used in dermocosmetics helps you make informed decisions when choosing an emollient.

Are Plant Oils Emollients?

Plant oils like argan oil, jojoba oil, squalane, and shea butter are generally categorized as emollients, though some also show a mild occlusive effect due to their light film properties. Squalane is one of the best-tolerated emollients thanks to its low comedogenic score and hydrocarbon structure. Squalane's role in the skin barrier and combination-use recommendations are worth exploring further.

Occlusives: The Barrier Film That Stops Moisture Escape

Occlusives are ingredients that form a hydrophobic film on the skin's surface, physically slowing the passage of water vapor into the atmosphere. Their effectiveness at reducing TEWL depends on the film's hydrophobic density and application thickness.

Occlusive Ingredients and an Efficacy Hierarchy

Occlusive TEWL Reduction Texture/Property Ideal Skin Type
Petrolatum (100%) 98% Heavy, glossy; clinical reference Very dry, atopic, eczema-prone
Lanolin 80-85% Semi-heavy; protein-like structure Dry, sensitive; check for lanolin allergy
Beeswax 60-70% Firm texture; lip products Lips, area around nails
Dimethicone (silicone) 40-50% Light film; breathable feel Tolerable for oily-combination skin
Plant-derived wax 30-45% Vegan; firm structure Dry-to-normal skin
Shea butter (high ratio) 25-35% Soft occlusive + emollient Normal-dry, pregnancy skin

TEWL and the Clinical Importance of Occlusives

Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) sits at roughly 5-10 g/m²/hour in a healthy adult, but this value can rise to 30-80 g/m²/hour with barrier damage. Randomized controlled trials have shown that petrolatum-based occlusives applied twice daily reduce atopic dermatitis flares by 48%.Simpson et al., 2014

The "Skin Can't Breathe" Myth and the Fear of Occlusives

The most common misconception about occlusives is that they prevent skin from "breathing." In reality, the stratum corneum doesn't exchange oxygen — that function happens through dermal capillaries. An occlusive film doesn't slow oxygen exchange; it only slows the escape of water vapor. Used with the right ingredient and concentration, neither pore-clogging nor acne triggering is observed. Silicone-based occlusives (1-2% dimethicone) carry almost no comedogenic potential in facial products.

The CIRÈLL Biomimetic TriBarrier System: All Three Layers Together

While combining the three moisturizing categories in a formula seems simple in theory, physiological ratios, pH compatibility, and penetration sequence are critical variables in practice. CIRÈLL solves this challenge with the Biomimetic TriBarrier System.

Why Does the Physiological Ratio Matter?

The stratum corneum's lipid lamellae maintain a ceramide:cholesterol:free-fatty-acid ratio of roughly 1:1:1 (molar) or 1:1:1 (weight). Deviating from this ratio — for example, an excess of cholesterol — makes the lamellar structure too tight, reducing penetration; a ceramide deficiency widens the barrier and raises TEWL. CIRÈLL formulations support barrier repair based on this physiological ratio.

This holistic approach is explained at the molecular level on the CIRÈLL Biomimetic TriBarrier System page.

Formulation Sequence: pH, Phase, and Penetration

Humectants are generally water-soluble (hydrophilic phase), emollients are oil-soluble (lipophilic phase), and occlusives, with their high molecular weight structures, stay in the surface film. An effective emulsion combines these three ingredients in a stable O/W (oil-in-water) or W/O emulsion. W/O emulsions naturally offer higher occlusive capacity, while O/W emulsions offer a lighter texture and higher humectant bioavailability.

CIRÈLL's Connection to Barrier Repair

The humectant-emollient-occlusive combination alone may not be enough to repair stratum corneum damage; sometimes actives that trigger barrier lipid synthesis are also needed. Ingredients like madecassoside, ectoin, and panthenol are dermocosmetic actives that speed up the barrier repair process. Fully understanding the barrier repair protocol may require going beyond this trio. The molecular effects of madecassoside on the barrier are also detailed in CIRÈLL's ingredient guides.

The Right Application Order and Layering Protocol

Getting the most benefit from moisturizing layers depends as much on applying products in the right order as it does on the molecular-level mechanisms of action.

1

Cleansing (pH 4.5-5.5). Choosing the right facial cleanser is critical. High-pH soaps disrupt the stratum corneum's acid mantle, negatively affecting both humectant binding and lipid lamellae integrity. Gentle, barrier-protective cleansers should be preferred.

2

Toner/Essence (Humectant Prep). A toner with light hyaluronic acid or panthenol keeps the skin surface slightly damp, making it easier for the next humectant layer to bind. Wait 30-60 seconds after application, moving to the next step before skin fully dries.

3

Serum (Humectant + Actives). A serum containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or sodium PCA is applied to damp skin. Anti-aging or brightening actives can also be integrated at this stage. Light emollient-based serums also fall into this layer.

4

Moisturizer Cream (Emollient + Humectant Balance). A moisturizer cream containing ceramide, squalane, or fatty acids both locks in humectants and fills gaps as an emollient. This layer is the middle link in the TEWL-prevention chain.

5

Occlusive Finish (Nighttime Routine). In the nighttime routine, a final layer containing petrolatum, lanolin, or rich shea butter locks in all the moisturizing material. In daytime routines, a light dimethicone-based sunscreen can serve this function.

6

SPF (Daytime Routine Finisher). In daytime application, a mineral or chemical filter sunscreen takes the final layer position. Some sunscreens also form a light occlusive film, simplifying the routine.

Urea-containing products (5-10%) show a moisture-binding and mild keratolytic effect alongside an emollient effect when applied, making them suitable for very dry, thickened skin areas (heels, elbows).Lodén, 2012

Balancing Emollient, Humectant, and Occlusive by Skin Type

Every skin type has different moisture needs, so the ratio of these three categories should be personalized.

Dry and Very Dry Skin

In dry skin, both NMF (natural moisturizing factor) levels and lipid lamellae amounts are reduced. For this profile, a combination of high humectant concentration (glycerin 5-10%, multi-MW HA) + heavy emollient (ceramide, cholesterol, fatty acid triad) + strong occlusive (petrolatum, lanolin) is recommended. Looking at moisture-loss mechanisms, dry skin also experiences a chronic TEWL state — which is why the occlusive weighting is heavier here.

Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

While sebum production is elevated in oily skin, transepidermal water loss isn't necessarily low — some studies even show that oily, acne-prone skin can have higher TEWL than normal skin. Heavy occlusives should be avoided for this profile; a combination of light, non-comedogenic emollients (squalane, dimethicone 1-2%) + humectant serum is preferable.

Combination Skin

The T-zone and cheek areas have different moisture needs. A regional application strategy: the full three-layer combination on the cheeks, and only humectant + light emollient on the T-zone.

Sensitive and Rosacea-Prone Skin

Sensitive skin combines barrier dysfunction with neurovascular hyperreactivity. For this profile, soothing humectants (panthenol, madecassoside) + barrier-repairing emollients (ceramide, phytosphingosine) are recommended; strong occlusives, particularly fragranced ones, should be avoided. The CIRÈLL Rosacea Guide offers an in-depth resource on the rosacea-barrier connection.

Aging Skin (45+)

Ceramide production declines with age, sebum secretion drops, and dermal water-retention capacity weakens. Increasing the weight of strong emollients + occlusives in the nighttime routine markedly improves results for skin 45 and older. Understanding the difference between dehydration and dry skin also matters for lipid lamellae repair — aging skin often experiences both at once.

What Do These Signs on Your Skin Mean?

The signs below can indicate that one or more of the moisturizing layers is missing or out of balance.

Dryness Feeling Right After Cream

If skin tightens again within 1-2 hours of applying moisturizer, the formulation is likely humectant-heavy and missing an occlusive ingredient. Water has been drawn in but not locked in — TEWL continues.

Matte, Dull, Lifeless Look

When lipid gaps in the stratum corneum surface aren't filled, light reflects unevenly and skin looks dull. This is an early sign of emollient deficiency — when the cell surface isn't smooth, light scatters.

Peeling and Fine Flaking

Surface flaking is a sign of disruption in the stratum corneum's lipid matrix. When the bond between corneocytes isn't strong enough, desquamation becomes irregular. An emollient boost plus an occlusive combination normalizes this process.

Temporary Burning/Stinging

A burning or stinging sensation when applying any product signals that barrier integrity is compromised and nerve endings are exposed. High-humectant, alcohol-containing, or high-osmolality products can irritate this damaged barrier — a barrier-repairing emollient should be applied first.

Tightness and Loss of Elasticity

If skin feels pulled or uncomfortable during facial expressions, both stratum corneum moisture content has dropped (below 10%) and emollient filling is insufficient. This sign appears when the barrier is weakened both functionally and structurally.

Increased Redness and Reactivity

When the barrier breaks down, excessive sensitivity develops to surrounding pathogens, allergens, and irritants, showing up as chronic mild inflammation and redness. Occlusive ingredients physically reduce this external exposure while ceramide-based emollients regulate the inflammatory signal.

emollient, humectant, and occlusive: the three layers of moisturizing — healthy skin | CIRÈLL
When barrier-focused care becomes a routine, skin's appearance visibly improves.

Conclusion

Emollient, humectant, and occlusive form an integrated system that supports skin's moisture balance through three complementary mechanisms, where a deficiency in one reduces the effectiveness of the others. The humectant draws in water, the emollient fills barrier gaps, and the occlusive locks that water in — this cycle is only complete when all three work together.

Applied in the right order, at the right concentrations, and in ratios matched to skin type, this trio delivers a sense of moisture in the short term while repairing and supporting the barrier's lipid architecture over the long term. The balance can shift depending on age, season, ambient humidity, and skin condition — which is why it's important to take an adaptable approach rather than a static routine.

The CIRÈLL Biomimetic TriBarrier System aims to support skin's own moisture management mechanism by combining these three layers at physiological lipid ratios. When choosing a product, paying attention to ingredient category and concentration — not just texture or scent — is the fundamental way to get the best long-term results.

emollient, humectant, and occlusive: the three layers of moisturizing — skincare routine | CIRÈLL
Products applied in the right order and with the right technique boost the effectiveness of active ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the core difference between emollients, humectants, and occlusives?

Humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol) are compounds that draw water molecules from the atmosphere or from within the skin through hydrogen bonds. Emollients (ceramides, squalane, fatty acids) soften skin and reduce roughness by filling intercellular lipid gaps in the stratum corneum, as covered in our TEWL mechanism guide. Occlusives (petrolatum, lanolin, beeswax) form a hydrophobic film on the skin's surface that physically blocks transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Effective moisturizing requires using all three categories together — none can fully replace the others.

How do humectants work? Where do they draw water from?

Humectants hold water molecules by forming hydrogen bonds, thanks to their chemical structure containing multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups. In environments above 50% relative humidity (tropical climates, steam rooms), they can draw water from both the atmosphere and deeper skin layers. In dry environments below 40% relative humidity (heated indoor spaces, cold winter air), they can't draw enough water from the atmosphere and instead pull it from deeper stratum corneum layers, temporarily increasing surface moisture while drying out deeper layers. This is why humectants must always be sealed with an occlusive.

How much glycerin is ideal on a product label?

Glycerin is typically used at 3-10% concentration as a humectant in formulations. Below 5% provides supporting hydration, while 5-10% shows clinically meaningful moisture increase. Concentrations above 15% can create a sticky feeling and paradoxical dryness in some people, which is why the upper limit is generally set at 10-12%. Hyaluronic acid is effective at much lower concentrations (0.1-2%); its mere presence in a formulation is enough. The effective range for panthenol is 1-5%.

Can emollient and occlusive be in the same product?

Yes, many products contain ingredients that perform both functions at once. Shea butter, for example, has both emollient (lipid gap filling) and mild occlusive (surface film) properties. Petrolatum is nearly a pure occlusive, but since it doesn't penetrate into the stratum corneum, its emollient effect is weak. Ceramide-containing creams fall mainly into the emollient category. An ideal moisturizer formulation offers a balanced combination of these categories in one product — which is why looking at ingredient combinations, rather than a single ingredient, matters.

Should occlusives be used on oily skin?

Occlusives can be used on oily skin, but ingredient choice is critical. Heavy occlusives like petrolatum or dense lanolin can cause pore-clogging on oily skin. Instead, non-comedogenic, low-molecular-weight occlusives like dimethicone (1-2%), isohexadecane, or a small amount of jojoba oil are preferable. Another point to note: oily skin's TEWL values can sometimes be higher than normal skin, which is why ruling out occlusive use entirely is a mistake. Lightweight sunscreens can also serve as a sufficient occlusive film.

In what order should I apply the three layers?

Application order: 1) Cleansing (barrier-compatible, pH 4.5-5.5), 2) Toner or a light humectant essence (while skin is slightly damp), 3) Humectant serum (glycerin, hyaluronic acid), 4) Emollient-containing moisturizer cream (ceramide, squalane), 5) Occlusive finishing layer (petrolatum-based for night; sunscreen or a dimethicone-containing product for day). Occlusive weighting can be increased in nighttime routines; in daytime routines, a light non-comedogenic SPF takes on this final-layer role. Important note: after applying the humectant serum, wait 30-60 seconds and apply the emollient cream while skin is still slightly damp.

Which category is right for children and infants?

Infant and child skin has a thinner stratum corneum than adult skin, and barrier maturation continues until roughly 12 months of age. For this profile, an approach combining strong humectants (glycerin, panthenol) + an emollient triad (ceramide, cholesterol, fatty acid) + a light occlusive (petrolatum or mineral oil) is appropriate. Products containing fragrance, alcohol, and high-concentration urea should be avoided. In infants at risk for atopic dermatitis, clinical studies support that regular emollient use from an early stage reduces later sensitization.

How should the moisturizer routine change in winter?

In winter, outdoor cold combined with indoor heating can drop relative humidity to 20-35%. In this environment, humectants' capacity to draw water from the atmosphere decreases, so occlusive weighting should be increased. Practical tip: applying a thin layer of petrolatum or a rich barrier cream as a "sleeping mask" over the emollient cream in the nighttime routine markedly reduces TEWL. In the daytime routine, the humectant concentration in a serum can be increased, but it must always be sealed. Additionally, using an indoor humidifier to maintain 45-55% relative humidity boosts humectant effectiveness.

Is a more expensive moisturizer more effective?

Effectiveness depends on ingredient category and concentration, not price. Clinical studies have shown that low-cost formulations containing a 5-10% glycerin + 1-2% ceramide + 5% petrolatum combination deliver TEWL reduction and moisture increase comparable to expensive luxury products. Price differences mostly come from formulation technology, extra actives (peptides, antioxidants), fragrance, packaging, and brand value. Checking for the presence of humectant + emollient + occlusive on the ingredient list first is the key to making an informed choice.

Are there side effects? When should I be cautious?

While these categories are generally well tolerated, some exceptions exist: lanolin allergy occurs in roughly 1-3% of women and can be confirmed with a contact allergy test. High-concentration urea (20-40%) can cause burning on sensitive skin with a damaged barrier. Propylene glycol can cause contact dermatitis in some people. Fragranced occlusives can increase irritation in rosacea and atopic dermatitis patients. Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic choices are always safer for sensitive skin. A 48-hour patch test behind the neck or ear is recommended before starting a new product.

When should I get a dermatologist's or doctor's opinion?

Definitely see a dermatologist in the following situations: severe dryness and flaking that doesn't improve within 3-4 weeks despite regular moisturizer use; oozing, crusting, or wounds indicating severe barrier breakdown; widespread and recurring redness, itching, or burning; worsening rash on an infant's face, torso, or skin folds; sudden swelling, difficulty breathing, or widespread redness after applying any product (a sign of anaphylaxis); widespread and persistent signs of barrier dysfunction without a diagnosis of ichthyosis, psoriasis, or atopic dermatitis.

What's the layering difference between serum and cream?

Serum is a low-viscosity, high-active-concentration formulation optimized for small-molecule actives and humectants. It can penetrate deeper into the stratum corneum and carry humectant material into the barrier. Cream, on the other hand, is emulsion-based, containing both an oil and water phase, making it an ideal carrier for emollient and light occlusive ingredients. The order should be serum first, then cream: the serum builds up humectants, while the cream serves both an emollient and a permeability-barrier function. The 30-60-second wait in between allows the serum's ingredients to penetrate.

What's the relationship between the skin barrier and these three layers?

The stratum corneum's water-retention capacity depends directly on barrier lipid architecture. When the lipid lamellar structure made up of ceramide, cholesterol, and free fatty acids breaks down, TEWL rises and NMF (natural moisturizing factor) production drops. Emollients (ceramide-based ones in particular) directly repair this structure, while humectants increase the water NMF holds, and occlusives prevent external moisture loss during the repair process. This is why using all three categories together contributes to real barrier repair, beyond symptomatic moisturizing. Moisturizing done without establishing barrier integrity offers temporary relief but falls short for long-term improvement.

Which is a more effective humectant: hyaluronic acid or glycerin?

These two humectants aren't rivals — they're complementary. Glycerin (92 Da) is a small-molecule humectant that can penetrate into the stratum corneum, showing effect at both surface and mid-depth levels. Hyaluronic acid works at different depths depending on molecular weight: high-MW forms (>1 MDa) stay on the surface, creating a plumping feel, while low-MW forms (<50 kDa) reach deeper layers. Practically speaking, glycerin is the most proven humectant in terms of cost and efficacy; HA is a strong complement, particularly in anti-aging-focused formulations. The best results come from using both together.

How does CIRÈLL balance emollient, humectant, and occlusive in its products?

Within the Biomimetic TriBarrier System framework, CIRÈLL formulates the ceramide:cholesterol:free-fatty-acid triad at a physiological 1:1:1 (weight) ratio. This triad forms the core emollient backbone, while multi-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid and panthenol provide humectant support. The occlusive layer is lightly sealed with non-comedogenic plant wax and dimethicone ingredients, maintaining a balance suited for both day and night use. The formulation represents an approach where each ingredient synergistically supports the other, mimicking real skin physiology.

Mine Ekber

Mine Ekber

CIRÈLL Formulation & Content Team

Content editor working alongside CIRÈLL's R&D team on skin barrier physiology. The scientific claims on this page are backed by peer-reviewed sources verified on PubMed/NCBI; the source list appears below.

Scientific Sources

  1. Papakonstantinou E, Roth M, Karakiulakis G. Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermatoendocrinol, 2012.
  2. Rawlings AV, Matts PJ. Stratum corneum moisturization at the molecular level: an update in relation to the dry skin cycle. J Invest Dermatol, 2005.
  3. Elias PM. Stratum corneum defensive functions: an integrated view. J Invest Dermatol, 2005.
  4. van Smeden J, Janssens M, Gooris GS, Bouwstra JA. The important role of stratum corneum lipids for the cutaneous barrier function. Biochim Biophys Acta, 2014.
  5. Simpson EL, Chalmers JR, Hanifin JM, et al. Emollient enhancement of the skin barrier from birth offers effective atopic dermatitis prevention. J Allergy Clin Immunol, 2014.
  6. Lodén M. Effect of moisturizers on epidermal barrier function. Clin Dermatol, 2012.

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