Emollient
An emollient is a substance softens and soothes the skin.
Emollients can take many different forms because a wide range of substances have emollient properties. For example, emollients include fats and oils, such as lanolin and liquid paraffin.
Emollients are sometimes used alone as moisturizers. They are also used in skin preparations as a base for other active drugs, such as antibiotics.
Many natural products have emollient properties, including for example:
Related information:
The definitions in this section are of words used to refer to the actions (effects) of both pharmaceutical drugs and natural remedies. For information about specific oils, herbs, and remedies that might have properties including some of the actions mentioned in this section, see other parts of this website. For example, the pages about Aromatherapy Essential Oils, Bach Flower Remedies, Herbalism, Homeopathic Remedies, Homeopathy and Massage Carrier Oils.