What is the purpose of moisturizing creams in skincare?

Moisturizing creams are primarily designed to hydrate and protect the skin barrier. This is essential for maintaining skin health, as adequate hydration helps prevent dryness and irritation. The skin barrier serves as a protective layer that keeps moisture in and harmful substances out, which is crucial for overall skin integrity.

Moisturizers typically contain ingredients like humectants, which attract water to the skin, and occlusives, which create a barrier to lock in moisture. This dual action effectively supports the skin's natural functions, ensuring that it remains supple and resilient against environmental stressors.

The other options—creating a matte finish, adding color to the skin, and exfoliating dead skin cells—are not the primary functions of moisturizing creams. While some moisturizers might have additional benefits or be formulated to provide a matte appearance, their core purpose is inherently linked to hydration and barrier protection.