Humectants vs Emollients vs Occlusives: How to Choose the Right Hydration for Your Skin Quick Answer Humectants attract and hold water in the outer skin; emollients soften roughness; occlusives reduce water evaporation. These are ingredient functions, not three products everyone must buy. A single moisturizer can combine all three. Choose the texture and formula that … Continue reading Humectants vs Emollients vs Occlusives: How to Choose the Right Hydration for Your Skin