What is an emollient?

Emollients soften dry, flaky skin by filling the spaces between dead skin cells with lipids (fatty substances that promote smoothness and softness). Emollients are typically found in moisturizers and help soften the skin, with the moisturizer's other ingredients attracting and locking hydration (see humectant and occlusive). Common emollients found in skincare are ceramides, squalane, lanolin, jojoba oil and shea butter.