ABSTRACT
Hydrating substances are used in cosmetic products to retard moisture loss from the product during use and to increase the moisture content in material that is in contact with the product. This function is generally performed by hygroscopic substances, or humectants, which are able to absorb water from the surroundings. In the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary, approximately 125 substances are listed as humectants and almost 200 hygroscopic materials are used to increase the water content of the skin (1).
