What Is an Emollient? The Softening Layer, Explained
An ingredient that smooths and softens the surface by filling in between flaky cells. Most oils, esters and fatty alcohols.
On the label
Squalane, shea butter, caprylic triglyceride, cetyl alcohol. They give creams their slip.
What it does not mean
It does not mean the same as moisturising, though most moisturisers contain one. Emollients change how skin feels more than how much water it holds.