Humectants, emollients, and occlusives: understanding how different hydrating ingredients work and layer. This page is part of the Skin Health hub on Evidence Before Claims. Content is for educational purposes only and is reviewed against peer-reviewed studies, FDA labeling, and current clinical guidelines. It does not provide diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical adv
Reviewed by Amelia Ross, MD (illustrative reviewer) — MD, Dermatology. Last reviewed: May 2026. Educational content only; not medical advice.