humectant

The most effective lip balms contain ingredients that attract moisture, known as humectants; add moisture and oil, emollients; and form a protective barrier to seal in moisture, occlusives, Awan said.

Harris said other ingredients that can cause irritation include heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium and lead; preservative ingredients like parabens and formaldehyde-releasing agents; and ethoxylated ingredients that serve as humectants, emulsifiers or foaming agents.

He upgraded the formula with moisturizers and humectants to nourish hands.

Honey has been touted as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and humectant, making it an ideal skin-care ingredient.

It gets its humectant power from an organic aloe vera base and vegetable glycerin.