Humectants

Humectants act as moisturisers by attracting water. They are often used to prevent creams from drying out.
Two common Humectants are Sorbitol and Glycerine. Sorbitol is the most commonly used humectant in cosmetics. It is light and non-sticky, and Sorbitol is made from glucose.
Glycerine is another humectant that is derived from plants.