Final answer:
Formulations with a high percentage of occlusives provide outstanding longevity in wet conditions by creating a barrier that prevents water loss, whereas humectants attract moisture to the skin.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering formulations that provide outstanding longevity in moist or wet conditions, one should look at the specific components and structure of the product. Most lotions are typically oil-in-water emulsions; they use substances like cetearyl alcohol to maintain the stability of the emulsion. However, there are also water-in-oil lotions that may offer better protection in wet conditions because the oil phase creates a barrier on the skin which can repel water and maintain hydration.
Moisturizers are designed to modify the rate of water loss from the skin. Their active ingredients can be categorized into occlusives and humectants. Occlusives form a physical barrier to prevent water loss, making them effective in wet conditions. Humectants, on the other hand, attract water molecules from the environment to the skin, which can be beneficial in both dry and moderately moist conditions.
Therefore, a moisturizer that is formulated with a higher percentage of occlusives might be better suited for wet conditions, providing superior longevity by physically blocking water from washing away the product.