Deciphering the Ingredients in Skin Care Creams

Posted on: April 28th, 2025 by Our Team

Deciphering the Ingredients in Skin Care Creams: A Guide for our Apex Skin Center Patients

With so many skin care products on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right cream for your skin type and concerns. One of the most important factors to consider is the ingredients list and the team at Apex Skin Center is dedicated to helping you to decipher the ingredients in creams and understand what they do for your skin.

Humectants

Humectants are ingredients that help to attract and retain moisture in the skin. Some of the most common humectants found in skin care creams include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and urea. These ingredients work by drawing moisture from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin to the surface, keeping the skin hydrated and preventing dryness.

Emollients

Emollients are ingredients that help to smooth and soften the skin. They work by filling in the spaces between skin cells, creating a protective barrier that locks in moisture and prevents water loss. Some of the most common emollients found in skin care creams include petrolatum, shea butter, and jojoba oil.

Occlusive agents

Occlusive agents are ingredients that form a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. They work by creating a film on the surface of the skin that prevents water from evaporating. Some of the most common occlusive agents found in skin care creams include petroleum jelly, lanolin, beeswax, and silicones.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are ingredients that help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin concerns. Some of the most common antioxidants found in skin care creams include vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a crucial ingredient in any skin care cream, as it helps to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. When choosing a moisturizing cream with SPF, look for a formula that contains physical sunscreens, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as these are gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation. Be on the lookout for another blog posted authored by our own skin cancer expert board-certified dermatologist and board-certified, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon Dr. Thomas Knackstedt explaining some of the common sunscreen types in greater detail.

Fragrances

Many skin care creams contain fragrances, which can be either natural or synthetic. Fragrances can add a pleasant scent to a product, but they can also be a source of skin irritation for some people. If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to choose a fragrance-free product. In our prior blog post on recommended skin products for eczema, psoriasis and sensitive skin individuals, the team at Apex Skin Center was very cautious to recommend any products containing fragrances or other unnecessary ingredients.

Preservatives

Skin care products can spoil and grow bacteria. Common preservatives found in skincare creams include parabens, which help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold (many skin products are now paraben free!). Phenoxyethanol is another widely used preservative known for its antimicrobial properties. Sodium benzoate and benzyl alcohols, often combined with other ingredients, help extend the shelf life while remaining gentle on the skin.

The ingredients list in skin care creams can be overwhelming, but by understanding the different types of ingredients and what they do for your skin, you can make an informed decision about which cream is right for you. Look for creams that contain a combination of humectants, emollients, occlusive agents, antioxidants to provide your skin with the best possible protection and hydration. If the product is going on your face, an SPF rating also can’t hurt!