You know those mornings when your skin feels like parchment? Tight, dull, maybe even a little itchy? That’s your skin barrier waving a little white flag — it’s begging for support. And while a good hydrating serum or toner helps, here’s the thing: without an occlusive to seal all that moisture in, you’re fighting an uphill battle.

That’s where the magic of plant-based occlusives comes in. Let’s take a closer look — I promise, this is one skincare story you’ll want to read to the end. You’ll learn a lot about what ingredients to look for when you live in a dry climate (Hello Colorado!) or when your skin is feeling extra dry!

Your Skin Barrier, Explained (The Cliff Notes)

Think of your skin barrier like the roof on a house — it keeps the good stuff in (moisture) and the bad stuff out (pollutants, bacteria, and irritants). When it’s strong and intact, your skin looks smooth, bouncy, and moisturized. When it’s damaged? Your skin can experience redness, dryness, flaking, and those pesky fine lines that seem to deepen overnight. We call those dehydration lines and they are different from wrinkles! The good news is…dehydration lines can disappear when you properly moisturize your skin! One of the biggest culprits behind a damaged skin barrier? Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL). This is the invisible evaporation of moisture through your skin — and it happens more often than you think, especially in dry climates or after cleansing.

Enter: occlusives. These ingredients form a breathable barrier on your skin’s surface, helping to trap moisture inside and reduce TEWL — essentially locking in hydration where it belongs.

The Plant-Based Occlusives We Love (And Why They Work)

Not all occlusives are created equal. Many conventional products rely on synthetic options like petrolatum or silicones — which can feel heavy or clog pores. At Simple Body, we take a different approach, formulating with proven plant-based occlusives that offer the same moisture-sealing benefits — but with added skin nourishment and a lighter, breathable feel.

Here are some of the hero ingredients you’ll find in our barrier-supporting skincare:

• Jojoba Oil – Structurally similar to the natural sebum your skin produces, making it a perfect match for all skin types. It helps regulate oil production while preventing moisture loss.

• Shea Butter – Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, this creamy butter softens skin and forms a protective barrier that locks in hydration.

• Cocoa Butter – A natural powerhouse of antioxidants and fatty acids — known for helping improve elasticity and reducing visible signs of aging.

• Candelilla Wax – A plant-based wax that adds a light, breathable layer on the skin — perfect for those seeking a vegan alternative to beeswax.

• Avocado Oil – Packed with vitamins A, D, and E, this nourishing oil penetrates deeply and supports skin barrier repair.

• Olive Oil – A staple in Mediterranean beauty for a reason. High in squalene and antioxidants, it protects against oxidative stress and reinforces skin’s natural defenses.

What the Research Says

A 2020 review published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences highlighted the importance of occlusive agents in reducing TEWL and restoring skin barrier function — especially when combined with emollients and humectants. The researchers noted that plant-derived oils not only prevent moisture loss but also deliver essential fatty acids and bioactive compounds that support skin health long-term.

Synthetic occlusives, while effective at sealing in moisture, lack these added benefits. In contrast, botanical ingredients contribute nutrients that actively support barrier repair — which is why we’re so passionate about using them in our proven skincare line.

How to Work Occlusives Into Your Routine

It’s simple: layer from thinnest to thickest.

• After cleansing, apply a hydrating toner or tonic.

• Follow with serums (think Wrinkle Defense Serum or Barrier Defense Serum).

• Then seal everything in with an occlusive-rich cream or oil (our Face Cream is one of the best face creams for this).

In the evening, when skin is in repair mode, adding a barrier Serum or rich facial oil (Age Defense Serum) helps prevent overnight water loss — and supports visible improvements in texture and resilience.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to anti-aging, supporting a damaged skin barrier, and achieving strong, resilient skin — plant-based occlusives are your best friends. They don’t just sit on the surface; they nourish while they protect, giving your skin exactly what it needs to thrive.

At Simple Body, every face serum and face cream is thoughtfully formulated with this in mind. Because great skincare doesn’t just hydrate — it strengthens. And that’s what creates results you can see and feel.

Do you have questions about what occlusive ingredients might be right for you? Book a free skincare consultation HERE and I’ll help make sure you’re getting the right occlusives on your skin!

xoxo
Jewels