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Humectants are substances used in skin care that assist in the absorption of moisture from the environment and help to retain hydration within the skin. They attract water molecules from the air and bind them to the skin's surface, creating a plumping effect and reducing dryness. This property makes humectants essential in formulations aimed at increasing moisture content in the skin, which is critical for maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance.

Emollients, while important for skin care, function primarily to soften and soothe the skin by filling in gaps between skin cells, thus creating a smooth surface. Exfoliants work to remove dead skin cells from the surface to enhance skin texture and promote cell turnover, which can improve the overall appearance of the skin but does not directly contribute to moisture absorption. Surfactants are primarily used in cleansing products to reduce surface tension, allowing for the effective removal of dirt and oils but are not directly related to moisture retention.