Skin protecting

Ingredients with the skin protecting function help to reduce the harmful effects of external factors on the skin surface and maintain its barrier properties. In the CosIng database, this function refers to substances that help protect the skin, while the FDA regulatory materials for skin protectants refer to products that create a protective layer on the skin and reduce contact with irritants. In practice, such components reduce the feeling of dryness, tightness and discomfort, make the skin softer and help it easier to tolerate wind, cold, friction, frequent washing and other stressful conditions. (single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu)

Most often, this function is realized through the formation of a thin protective film or through an emollient effect that reduces moisture loss from the skin surface. Therefore, such ingredients are especially in demand in hand creams, balms, products for very dry and sensitive skin, as well as in products after aggressive cleansing. This function affects the hair indirectly: if the component is film-forming, it can additionally make the formula more gliding and comfortable to apply, but its main role is still related to skin protection. (fda.gov)

Typical examples are Dimethicone and Allantoin. Dimethicone is known for its ability to form a smooth water-repellent barrier on the skin surface, which is why it is often used in protective and emollient formulas; the FDA classifies dimethicone as an active ingredient for over-the-counter skin protectant products. Allantoin is more often appreciated for its mild soothing and softening effect.: it helps to make care more comfortable for irritated and sensitive skin. That is why ingredients with this function are often found in products whose task is not just to care for, but to reduce the daily load on the skin barrier. (accessdata.fda.gov)