Hydration Heroes: Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid

by Emily Linehan on June 15, 2023

Since we’re all on the quest for that plump, hydrated, dewy complexion, I wanted to talk about ingredients that help us get there. Specifically two of the most powerful hydration heroes in the skincare world: glycerin and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients are true game-changers when it comes to delivering intense hydration to your skin, which is why they appear in so many skincare products. So let's dive in and learn more about what makes these ingredients so special!

Glycerin

Glycerin is a natural humectant, meaning it helps to attract and retain moisture. Because it works to maintain the skin's water balance and create a barrier to lock in hydration, it is a key ingredient in several skincare products. But glycerin does more than just hydrate – it also protects the skin from environmental stressors and helps to improve the skin's barrier function, preventing water loss and promoting healthy skin function.

Glycerin is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. Its gentle and non-irritating nature makes it perfect for sensitive skin, while its ability to balance the skin's water levels ensures it won't clog pores or cause breakouts in oily or acne-prone skin. For dry and dehydrated skin types, glycerin provides essential hydration and can help reduce flakiness and tightness typically associated with dryness.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant found naturally in our bodies, has become a trendy and sought-after ingredient in the skincare world, and for good reason. It has the remarkable ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a hydration superstar. Its benefits include plumping the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and promoting a youthful and dewy complexion.

While it can be applied topically, hyaluronic acid has also become a go-to ingredient for fillers, such as lip injections.

Similar to glycerin, hyaluronic acid is also generally suitable for all skin types. It can deeply hydrate dry skin and oily skin types without clogging the pores. Sensitive skin types will also appreciate hyaluronic acid's soothing properties, which can help reduce redness and irritation.