Humectant

A humectant is a skincare ingredient designed to draw moisture from the environment or deeper layers of the skin into the upper layers, helping to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Common humectants include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, urea, and aloe vera, which are often found in moisturisers, serums, and masks.

Humectants work by binding water molecules to the skin, making them ideal for combating dryness and dehydration. These ingredients are particularly useful in skincare routines aimed at maintaining a healthy skin barrier and improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin. They are also gentle, making them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

To get the most out of humectants, they are best applied to slightly damp skin after cleansing, as this allows them to pull water from the surface rather than from within the skin. However, in very dry climates, humectants may need to be paired with an occlusive moisturiser to lock in hydration and prevent water loss.

Incorporating humectants into your skincare routine can lead to smoother, softer, and more radiant skin, especially for those battling seasonal dryness or a compromised skin barrier. Look for these ingredients in your face care and body care.