The Global Moisturizing Agent Market was valued at US$ 352.7 million in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 585.3 million by 2030, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.4% during the forecast period (2023–2030). This growth is being driven by rising consumer demand for skincare products, increasing awareness of skin hydration benefits, and the shift toward natural and sustainable ingredients in cosmetics, chemicals, and other applications.

As the personal care and chemical industries transform toward eco-friendly and innovative formulations, the spotlight is on the key suppliers who are driving advancements in hydration technologies, sustainability, and effective moisturizing solutions. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Moisturizing Agent Market—a mix of multinational chemical leaders, specialty providers, and biotech innovators shaping the future of skin care and industrial applications.

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🔟 1. BASF SE

Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Germany
Key Offering: Glycerin-based humectants, hyaluronic acid derivatives, synthetic moisturizers for cosmetics and industrial use

BASF SE stands as a global powerhouse in chemical manufacturing, with its personal care division leading the way in moisturizing agents. The company supplies high-performance humectants to major cosmetics brands worldwide, focusing on formulations that enhance skin barrier function and long-lasting hydration. Because of its extensive R&D capabilities, BASF continues to innovate in bio-based alternatives, serving both the beauty industry and chemical product manufacturers effectively.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Development of plant-derived moisturizers to reduce reliance on petroleum-based ingredients

• Partnerships with skincare brands for customized hydration solutions

• Commitment to carbon-neutral production by 2050, including sustainable sourcing for raw materials

Download FREE Sample Report: Moisturizing Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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9️⃣ 2. Dow Inc.

Headquarters: Midland, Michigan, USA
Key Offering: Silicone-based emollients, polyols, and multifunctional moisturizing additives

Dow Inc. excels in delivering versatile moisturizing agents that integrate seamlessly into lotions, creams, and industrial formulations. Operating across North America and beyond, the company emphasizes silicone technologies that provide non-greasy, fast-absorbing hydration, making it a preferred partner for cosmetics giants. Furthermore, Dow’s focus on scalable production ensures reliability in meeting growing market demands without compromising quality.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Investments in biodegradable moisturizing polymers

• Collaborations with formulators to enhance product efficacy and eco-profiles

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8️⃣ 3. AkzoNobel N.V.

Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Key Offering: Cellulose derivatives, natural gums, and humectant blends for personal care

AkzoNobel plays a pivotal role in the moisturizing agent sector through its specialty chemicals arm, providing ingredients that improve texture and moisture retention in skincare products. With a strong presence in Europe, the company caters to the rising trend of clean beauty by offering agents derived from renewable sources. However, its global reach allows it to support diverse applications, from cosmetics to chemical products, fostering innovation in hydration science.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Expansion of bio-based humectants portfolio

• Targets for 30% sustainable ingredients in products by 2030

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7️⃣ 4. Croda International Plc

Headquarters: East Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Key Offering: Natural emollients, shea butter derivatives, and olive-based moisturizers

Croda International is renowned for its expertise in natural moisturizing agents, particularly those sourced from sustainable agriculture. The company supplies premium ingredients to luxury cosmetics brands, emphasizing traceability and ethical sourcing. Because of its commitment to green chemistry, Croda helps brands meet consumer preferences for organic and vegan-friendly formulations, while also expanding into industrial applications.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Certification of 100% traceable natural oils by 2025

• R&D in upcycled ingredients for circular economy practices

Download FREE Sample Report: Moisturizing Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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6️⃣ 5. Evonik Industries AG

Headquarters: Essen, Germany
Key Offering: Amino acid-based moisturizers, ceramide analogs, and skin-identical compounds

Evonik Industries leads with science-backed moisturizing solutions that mimic the skin’s natural lipids, enhancing barrier repair in anti-aging and sensitive skin products. Its global operations support a wide range of applications, including medical-grade cosmetics. The company’s emphasis on efficacy testing ensures that its agents deliver measurable hydration benefits, appealing to formulators seeking proven performance.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Launch of biotech-derived ceramides for sustainable production

• Goal to achieve climate neutrality in operations by 2040

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5️⃣ 6. Lubrizol Corporation

Headquarters: Wickliffe, Ohio, USA
Key Offering: Polymer-based humectants, peptide complexes, and delivery systems for moisture

Lubrizol Corporation specializes in advanced moisturizing technologies that enable controlled release of hydration in formulations. Serving the cosmetics and personal care sectors primarily, the company innovates with encapsulation methods to prolong moisturizing effects. Its contributions to multifunctional ingredients help reduce formulation complexity, making it a key player in efficient product development.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Development of water-efficient moisturizers for arid regions

• Partnerships for recyclable packaging in ingredient supply

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4️⃣ 7. Kao Corporation

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Nano-emulsified moisturizers, plant extract humectants, and Asian skincare actives

Kao Corporation, through its global Kao Worldwide division, excels in moisturizing agents tailored for Asian and international skincare markets. The company focuses on lightweight, non-comedogenic options that suit diverse skin types, backed by extensive consumer research. Furthermore, Kao’s integration of traditional botanicals with modern science positions it strongly in the natural moisturizer segment.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Investment in forest conservation for sustainable plant sourcing

• Achievement of zero-waste manufacturing in key facilities

Download FREE Sample Report: Moisturizing Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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3️⃣ 8. Clariant AG

Headquarters: Basel, Switzerland
Key Offering: Glucoside humectants, polyacrylate thickeners with moisturizing properties, and eco-emollients

Clariant AG provides a broad portfolio of moisturizing agents that enhance sensory appeal in creams and lotions, with a particular strength in sustainable alternatives to traditional glycols. Operating across Europe and Asia-Pacific, the company supports the clean label movement by offering preservative-free options. Its technical expertise helps clients optimize formulations for better stability and hydration.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Expansion of 100% bio-based moisturizer lines

• Collaborative projects for water stewardship in supply chains

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2️⃣ 9. Ashland Global Holdings Inc.

Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware, USA
Key Offering: PVP polymers, natural extracts, and film-forming moisturizers

Ashland Global Holdings brings decades of experience to the moisturizing agent market, specializing in ingredients that provide both immediate and prolonged hydration. The company’s solutions are widely used in hair and skin care products, with innovations in volatile silicone alternatives. Because of its focus on performance polymers, Ashland remains a trusted supplier for high-end cosmetics formulations.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Targets for 50% renewable content in key products by 2030

• R&D in microplastic-free moisturizing technologies

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1️⃣ 10. Maruho Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Osaka, Japan
Key Offering: Pharmaceutical-grade humectants, OTC skincare moisturizers, and biotech-derived agents

Maruho Co., Ltd. leads in the pharmaceutical application of moisturizing agents, bridging the gap between medical treatments and cosmetic enhancements. With a strong foothold in Asia, the company develops agents for conditions like dry skin and eczema, ensuring clinical efficacy. Its emphasis on safety and purity makes it indispensable for regulated markets, while expanding into global consumer products.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Integration of fermented ingredients for enhanced bioavailability

• Commitment to ethical clinical trials and sustainable biotech processes

Read Full Report: Moisturizing Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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🌍 Outlook: The Future of Moisturizing Agents Is Natural and Inclusive

The moisturizing agent market is experiencing a profound evolution. While synthetic options still hold significant share, the sector is pouring resources into plant-based and biotech alternatives, advanced delivery systems, and inclusive formulations for all skin types. This shift reflects broader consumer demands for transparency, efficacy, and environmental responsibility.

Key drivers include the booming clean beauty trend, where moisturizers free from irritants are paramount, and the expansion of e-commerce enabling niche product launches. However, challenges like raw material volatility persist, pushing companies toward resilient supply chains. Overall, the market’s trajectory points to a more hydrated, healthier world, with innovations addressing climate-impacted skin concerns.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

• Surge in demand for vegan and cruelty-free moisturizing ingredients across Asia-Pacific and Europe

• Regulatory emphasis on allergen-free and sustainable certifications by 2030

• Digital tools for personalized skincare formulations integrating AI-driven humectant selection

• Strategic alliances between chemical firms and beauty brands for co-developed eco-solutions

Read Full Report: Moisturizing Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies profiled here are not only hydrating global markets—they’re pioneering the sustainable evolution of skincare and beyond.