humectant

noun

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt 

: a substance that promotes retention of moisture

humectant adjective

Examples of humectant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Also available in over-the-counter products including serums and creams, the humectant can be added to any skincare regime. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 24 Jan. 2025

Use moisturizers with emollients, ceramides, and humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 22 Jan. 2025

This hybrid shower oil builds into a gentle lather, smoothes and softens skin with squalane, and is made of 50% glycerin, a humectant that helps draw water into the skin. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 13 Dec. 2024

Her advice is to use gentle cleansers and moisturizers that contain humectants — ingredients that attract moisture into the skin. —Varsha Patel, refinery29.com, 29 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin humectant-, humectans, present participle of humectare to moisten, from humectus moist, from humēre to be moist — more at humor entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1867, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

humectant

1 of 2 adjective

hu·​mec·​tant hyü-ˈmek-tənt 

: promoting the retention of moisture

humectant properties

humectant materials

humectant

2 of 2 noun

: a substance (as glycerol or sorbitol) that promotes retention of moisture