At Laboratoire Orescience, experts in private-label cosmetics and dermocosmetics, we shine a spotlight on the skin’s essential mechanisms. Today, we delve into the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), a key player in maintaining skin hydration.
What is it, how does it benefit your skin, and how can it be incorporated into effective skincare?
What exactly is the NMF?
The Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) is a collection of hygroscopic substances found in the stratum corneum, the skin’s outermost layer. These essential components retain water and maintain the skin’s moisture balance. NMF accounts for up to 30% of the dry weight of the stratum corneum, with approximately one-third of the water content in this layer being linked to NMF.
The composition of the NMF: A natural hydration cocktail
The NMF consists of molecules that work synergistically to maintain hydration. Its key components include:
- Free amino acids and their derivatives (over 50% of NMF): These are derived from the breakdown of filaggrin, a vital skin protein, including pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA) and urocanic acid.
- Lactic acid and urea: Natural humectants that attract and retain water.
- Mineral ions (sodium PCA, potassium, magnesium): Essential for water balance and skin barrier function.
- Sugars and polysaccharides (including hyaluronic acid): Hyaluronic acid, for example, can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
Although often associated with NMF, ceramides are not part of its composition. These lipids strengthen the skin barrier and minimise transepidermal water loss, playing a complementary role.
What affects the NMF?
The quality and production of the NMF can be influenced by both internal and external factors. These include skin conditions (atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, xerosis), ageing (which naturally reduces NMF production), and external aggressors such as excessive cleansing, UV exposure, or pollution. A reduction in NMF can result in dry skin, tightness, and discomfort.
NMF based skincare for optimal hydration
At Laboratoire Orescience, we incorporate NMF inspired actives into our private-label dermocosmetic formulations. For optimal hydration, we recommend the following:
- Use products enriched with NMF: Serums, creams, or dermatological waters to replenish NMF reserves and strengthen the hydrolipidic barrier.
- Prioritise key actives: Lactic acid and urea to retain water, sodium PCA and hyaluronic acid for long-lasting hydration, and peptides to stimulate filaggrin production.
- Protect the skin barrier: Opt for products that respect the skin’s natural pH (between 4.5 and 5.5).
Dermatological waters, rich in minerals and humectants, are an ideal complement to soothe the skin and enhance hydration.
Why choose NMF enriched skincare?
These deeply hydrating products respect the skin’s natural mechanisms and are particularly suited to dry, sensitive, reactive, or mature skin. Combined with dermatological waters, they help restore moisture balance, providing comfort and radiance.
The Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) is essential for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. By integrating NMF-inspired care and dermatological waters into your routine, you help your skin retain moisture and regain comfort and luminosity.
Laboratoire Orescience: Your partner in Dermocosmetics
Laboratoire Orescience brings its expertise in cosmetic innovation and bespoke formulation to your projects. Our mission: to create effective, sensory solutions perfectly tailored to meet your consumers’ expectations. Together, let’s design products that combine innovation, responsibility, and lasting impact while seamlessly fitting into daily routines.
Let’s build a customised, unique offering for your brand. Contact us today to bring your ideas to life and deliver exceptional skincare to your clients.