Moss
Moss is a gentle, moisture-binding natural ingredient that helps hydrate and soothe the skin while delivering a fresh, earthy scent in perfumes and skincare. Increasingly popular in UK clean beauty, it is valued for its ability to hold water and support a healthy skin barrier without irritation.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, moss extracts and absolutes function as humectants and soothing agents, drawing moisture into the upper layers of the skin and helping to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier. Their unique polysaccharides create a soft, breathable film that locks in hydration while the delicate aromatic compounds provide a subtle green note in fragrances and masks.
Key benefits
- Intensely hydrates skin
- Helps reinforce the skin barrier
- Calms and soothes irritation
- Provides antioxidant protection
- Adds a fresh, earthy scent to fragrances
- Improves skin softness and suppleness
Best for
dry skin, dehydrated skin, sensitive skin, mature skin
Where it comes from
Moss refers to small, non-vascular plants from the Bryophyta division, typically harvested from sustainable woodlands and forests across Europe, including the UK. The extracts used in beauty are usually derived from species such as oakmoss (Evernia prunastri) or tree moss.