Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs) are best described as what?

• A. A Pigment
• B. A Structural Protein
• C. A Combination of Substances in the Intercellular Structure of the Epidermis That Secure Moisture
• D. A Type of Sebum

Answer: (C)

Natural Moisturizing Factors are a group of hygroscopic compounds located in the outermost layer of the skin that keep it hydrated by attracting and holding water in the stratum corneum. They reside in the intercellular spaces of the epidermis and work to secure moisture, helping the skin stay supple and a healthy barrier. These components come from the breakdown of the protein filaggrin and include amino acids, lactic acid, urea, sugars, salts, and related substances. Because of that role, the best description is a combination of substances in the intercellular structure of the epidermis that secure moisture. They are not pigments, not structural proteins, and not sebum.