Natural moisturizing factor

Synonym(s)

Acid Mantle; NMF

Definition
This section has been translated automatically.

The term "Natural Moisturizing Factor" (NMF) is used to define a group of substances on the surface of the epidermis that are able to bind water due to their chemical composition. The NMF mainly consists of:

Lactic acid
various Amino acids
3-pyrrolidone-5-carboxylic acid
urea, ammonia, uric acid and
inorganic ions (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium).

Through appropriate skin care lipids and water are supplied to the system in such a way that they can be stored there. Besides the ceramides, the NMF is of decisive importance for the barrier function of the skin (skin barrier).

Note(s)
This section has been translated automatically.

NMF stands for natural substances or mixtures of substances (urea, lactic acid, amino acids) that are able to store the moisture found in the horny layer of the skin. They prevent the skin from drying out and keep it supple. NMFs are constantly replenished during the skin's regeneration process.

Normal human skin does not need any aids to maintain its natural moisture. Environmental factors such as dry air (especially in winter and in heated rooms), prolonged sunbathing, extensive and very warm bathing, or the use of aggressive cleansing products, lead to dehydration and the loss of natural moisturizing factors. The result is an increasing lack of skin barrier lipids, especially ceramides, which make up a high percentage of skin lipids. The result is damage to the skin barrier. The skin of older people is particularly at risk. This results in a feeling of tightness and itching.