Skin Moisturizing & Barrier Care

"Natural" on a moisturizer tells you where an ingredient came from, not whether it protects the skin or is gentle on it. FDA says an ingredient's source does not determine its safety, and that many plants, organically grown or not, contain substances that may be toxic or allergenic. [1] This page lines up what the sources we read say about oils, butters and moisturizers. It is information, not advice for a skin condition. For eczema, infected, broken or worsening skin, see a clinician.

What the "skin barrier" and a moisturizer are

The NHS describes emollients (moisturizers) as treatments applied directly to the skin to soothe and hydrate it, and says they cover the skin with a protective film to trap in moisture. [2] The NHS also says everyday soaps, shampoos and shower gels usually dry out the skin and can make conditions like eczema worse. [2] The same source says emollients can be bought at a pharmacy without a prescription. [2]

What FDA's skin-protectant rule recognizes

In the United States, an over-the-counter "skin protectant" is regulated as a drug, and the rule lists the active ingredients allowed. [3]

The rule also sets label warnings, for example "Stop use and ask a doctor if" the condition worsens or symptoms last more than 7 days. [3] The ingredient list we read did not name olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter or jojoba oil. That is a note about the list, not a verdict on those oils.

What research found about plant oils (separate from the rule)

Each result below applies to the oil and the people studied, and does not transfer to other oils.

The olive oil authors wrote that their findings challenge the unfounded belief that all natural oils are beneficial for the skin. [5] Their recommendation about olive oil for dry skin and infant massage was specific to that oil and that study. [5]

Proper evidence not found in the sources we read for shea butter, jojoba oil, argan oil or beeswax on the adult skin barrier. We searched PubMed for shea butter and jojoba topical skin evidence reviews and found no review to read. See Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil for what each page covers.

What FDA does and does not review

Cosmetic products and ingredients do not need FDA premarket approval, except color additives. [12] Companies carry the legal responsibility for safety. [12] A product claiming to treat or prevent disease is treated as a drug. [13]

When to ask a clinician or pharmacist

Persistent, recurrent or severe contact dermatitis symptoms are a reason to see a doctor, who can look for the cause. [14] Ask a pharmacist or clinician which moisturizer type suits a person, especially if prescribed creams are also used. For more on safe routines see Skin Care Basics, Skin and Hair Safety: When to See a Doctor, and Natural Skincare Claims Checked.