emollient crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate destination for solving those tricky crossword clues! On this page, you'll find all possible answers and explanations for the clue "emollient crossword clue", categorized by word length for your convenience. Get back to enjoying your puzzle in no time!
Solutions for "emollient crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
OIL: A simple lipid substance often used for moisturizing and softening.
4 Letters
BALM: A fragrant ointment or preparation used to heal or soothe the skin.
5 Letters
CREAM: A thick, soft, white or yellowish semi-solid emulsion used as a cosmetic or medicine.
SALVE: A medicinal ointment applied to the skin to heal or protect.
6 Letters
LOTION: A thick, smooth liquid preparation designed to be applied to the skin for medicinal or cosmetic purposes.
8 Letters
OINTMENT: A smooth, oily preparation rubbed on the skin for medicinal purposes or as a cosmetic.
SOFTENER: A substance added to make something softer, often used for fabrics or skin.
11 Letters
MOISTURIZER: A cosmetic preparation used to keep the skin moist, a primary function of emollients.
More About "emollient crossword clue"
The term "emollient" frequently appears in crosswords, often hinting at substances that soften, soothe, or moisturize. Understanding the various forms and applications of emollients can significantly boost your crossword-solving prowess when you encounter this clue. Emollients range from everyday lotions and creams to more specialized medical ointments, all designed to hydrate and protect the skin's barrier.
In crosswords, the specific answer often depends on the length and the context provided by other intersecting words. Common answers include terms like OIL, BALM, CREAM, LOTION, and OINTMENT, which are all types of substances with emollient properties. Sometimes, the clue might even lead to more general terms like SOFTENER or MOISTURIZER, capturing the core function of an emollient.
Knowing these common synonyms and related words can help you quickly identify the correct solution, whether the clue is direct or more cryptic. Always consider the precise definition of "emollient" – something that softens and soothes, particularly skin – to guide your answer selection.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Function: When you see "emollient," think about what it does. It softens, soothes, moisturizes. What common substances do that?
- Consider Length: Always check the number of letters required. This is often the quickest way to narrow down potential answers from many synonyms.
- Look for Common Examples: Crossword constructors love common examples. Think of everyday items like 'lotion,' 'cream,' or 'oil' before obscure ones.
- Examine Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from crossing words. They are your best allies in confirming or eliminating possibilities.
- Synonym Brainstorm: If the clue implies a quality (like "softening"), brainstorm synonyms for that quality and see if any fit the length and existing letters.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is an emollient?
An emollient is a moisturizing treatment applied directly to the skin to reduce water loss and provide a protective film. They are often used to soothe and hydrate dry, itchy, or scaly skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Common examples include lotions, creams, ointments, and balms.
Are all moisturizers emollients?
Yes, generally speaking, all emollients are a type of moisturizer, but not all moisturizers are emollients. Emollients specifically refer to agents that smooth and soften the skin by forming an occlusive barrier. Other types of moisturizers might include humectants (which draw water into the skin) or occlusives (which prevent water loss), and emollients often contain a combination of these ingredients.
How do emollients typically appear in crossword clues?
Emollients in crosswords are usually clued by their function (softener, soother, skin hydrator) or by common examples (lotion, cream, balm, oil). The clue might also use more descriptive terms like 'skin softener' or 'soothing application.' Pay attention to the number of letters required and common synonyms for 'soothe' or 'moisturize'.