Which of the following has the effect of attracting water?

The ability to attract water is a key characteristic of humectants. These substances are designed to draw moisture from the environment into the skin or hair, making them essential in many skincare and haircare formulations. By binding to water, humectants help to maintain hydration, making the skin more supple and preventing dryness.

Humectants function by holding onto water molecules, often creating a plumping effect in the skin, which can enhance the overall appearance and texture. This property is particularly beneficial in products aimed at moisturizing and nourishing the skin, as they help to prevent moisture loss and can provide a lasting hydration effect.

In contrast, thickeners primarily serve to alter the viscosity and texture of formulations without directly influencing moisture levels. Emulsifiers act to blend oil and water phases together, stabilizing mixtures into creams or lotions but do not inherently attract water. Preservatives are employed to prevent microbial growth in formulations, ensuring safety and longevity but are unrelated to moisture attraction.