Emollients are refatting agents added to a cosmetic formulation to provide the skin with the fat it needs. They increase the moisture content of the skin by reducing evaporation, providing a soft, smooth and non-greasy feel to the skin and thus, are often referred as moisturizers.
There are two main types of emollients:
Occlusives: These create a thick, greasy coating on the skin to lock in moisture. Examples include petroleum jelly, mineral oil, and lanolin.
Humectants: These attract and bind water to the skin, increasing hydration. Examples include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and urea