Humectants

Humectants are substances that prevent other materials from absorbing and retaining moisture. They are commonly used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic products. Humectants work primarily in the following ways:

• Binding with Water Molecules: This prevents water from evaporating and helps keep the product moist.
• Creating a Barrier: This barrier prevents water from escaping the product and stops ambient moisture from entering.
• Forming Hydrogen Bonds: These bonds help hold water molecules together, maintaining the moisture content of the product.

Commonly used chemicals as humectants include

• Glycerin: Glycerin is a highly effective humectant that is a sweet-tasting alcohol. It draws moisture from the air, helping the skin stay hydrated.
• Petrolatum (Vaseline): A soft, translucent, odorless, and tasteless substance refined from petroleum. It is often used as a moisturizer and protective barrier on the skin. It's also found in lip balms, lotions, and ointments.
• Isopropyl Myristate (IPM): A synthetic oil used in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. Chemically, it is an ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid, which is a natural fatty acid found in vegetable oils like coconut, palm kernel, and palm oil.
• Liquid Paraffin: Also known as mineral oil, it is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless oil refined from petroleum. Liquid paraffin is used as a laxative, lubricant, and base for nasal sprays.