What is the primary purpose of a moisturizer?

The primary purpose of a moisturizer is to hydrate the skin. Moisturizers work by creating a barrier that helps to retain moisture in the skin, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance. Proper hydration is crucial because it helps to prevent dryness, flakiness, and irritation, all of which can lead to other skin issues.

Moisturizers typically contain ingredients such as humectants, which attract water to the outer layer of the skin, as well as occlusive agents that seal in moisture. This hydrating function supports the skin's natural barrier, promotes elasticity, and can give the skin a smoother, more plump look.

While exfoliation, sun protection, and enhancing skin tone are important aspects of a skincare regimen, they do not define the primary role of a moisturizer, which is fundamentally centered around hydration.