What’s an occlusive, moisturizer & hydrator

Cosmetics terminology that might be beneficial to know and understand. 

Occlusive: an occlusive is like a barrier cream. It works by providing a thick barrier. For things like diaper rashes this can be beneficial in sealing moisture out and protecting the skin from getting worse. 

Hydrator: A hydrator increases the water content in the skin by attracting moisture from the environment or the skin itself, primarily using humectant ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Hydrators are typically lightweight, water-based, and absorb quickly into the skin. These are often lotions or gels. 

Moisturizer:  a moisturizer works to seal in that moisture and prevent water loss by forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface using emollients and occlusives such as oils, shea butter, and lanolin. Moisturizers are thicker, creamier, and sit on the skin's surface to lock in hydration, helping to restore the skin's natural barrier.

Both are essential for healthy skin, and the choice between them depends on skin type and concerns, with hydrators ideal for dehydrated skin and moisturizers best for dry skin.
some products combine both hydrating and moisturizing properties, understanding the distinct functions allows for a more targeted skincare routine.

 cons between the 2: 
Lotions & gels (hydrators) being generally water based will require things like emulsifiers, thickeners, and preservatives and most preservatives and emulsifiers that are recommended for cosmetics are not toxin free (like emulsifying wax NF or phenoxyethanol) 

Moisturizers like tallow, Shea, and other butters and oils may require more effort on your part in that you may have to apply to a wet face. 

What works for one persons skin may not work for another’s and that is ok! This can hopefully help you to make an informed choice on what each product is and how to personalize your skin care routine based off your needs.

Too often there is the “why isn’t this cream/balm/lotion working for my skin? What am I doing wrong?” Or “why isn’t tallow hydrating my face?” This is because tallow is not a hydrator, and you aren’t necessarily doing anything wrong. There just isn’t a lot of understanding on skin care, the skin itself, and what products are and how they function. 

Hopefully this can provide even a little insight into what certain products are and how they function with your skin.