Skincare Expert Reveals Everything You Need to Know About Humectants

The combination of cold and heat during the winter months takes its toll on our skin. Skincare expert Cigdem Kemal Yilmaz reveals the product ingredients that will keep skin hydrated and supple. And it’s not just hyaluronic acid

We all know what the mix of freezing cold winter air, indoor heating, and hot showers does to our skin – it laps up all the moisture! – leaving us with flaky, dry, tight-feeling skin, that has us reaching for the nearest hydrating serum to soothe it. Thankfully skincare formulator and founder of Skin Masterclass, Cigdem Kemal Yilmaz is here to reveal the skincare humectants we should have in our winter skincare routine . Hyaluronic acid isn’t the only humectant in town.

Humectants constitute a broad category of ingredients. Unfortunately, in the realm of skincare the spotlight is often solely on hyaluronic acid, however it’s good to be aware of a wider array of options because not all skin types may appreciate or tolerate hyaluronic acid.

Erythritol

Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Moisturiser

Erythritol can help enhance skin hydration and prevent dryness. It has hygroscopic properties, which means it attracts and retains moisture on the skin’s surface. As an antioxidant, erythritol can also help diminish the signs of ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, by preventing collagen breakdown and promoting collagen synthesis. Erythritol also has soothing properties that can help reduce skin irritation and redness.
Product recommendation – Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Moisturiser (£14.50 facethefuture.co.uk)

Galactoarabinan

COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence

Though it sounds like something celestial, Galactoarabinan has excellent water-binding properties, making it a highly effective moisturiser. Galactoarabinan acts as a penetration enhancer, improving the delivery and absorption of other active ingredients into the skin, and increasing the efficacy of skincare products. It’s also a great ingredient for sensitive or irritated skin types.
Product recommendation – COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence (£26.99 Look Fantastic)

Sodium PCA

Medik8 Hydr8 B5 INTENSE

Sodium PCA is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. It also enhances the skin’s natural barrier function by replenishing and repairing its protective lipid layer. It’s a naturally occurring component of the skin’s own moisturising factors, so as a result, it is well-tolerated and compatible with the skin, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types including sensitive skin.
Product recommendation – Medik8 Hydr8 B5 INTENSE (£59 facethefuture.co.uk)

Mannitol

Bioderma Pigmentbio Brightening Cleansing Micellar Water

Mannitol has antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from harmful free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that can help to soothe and calm the skin. It is beneficial for conditions such as sunburn, eczema, and other skin irritations. Mannitol is also an effective stabiliser and can help maintain the efficacy of other skincare ingredients over time.
Product recommendation – Bioderma Pigmentbio Brightening Cleansing Micellar Water (£12 facethefuture.co.uk)