We all want to maintain a glowing complexion year-round, but sometimes the cold weather and dry air will prevent you from reaching your goals. You may find your skin more parched than usual, lacking radiance or appearing red or inflamed. If you can relate, you’re in need of hydrating and moisturizing highfliers in your routine to replenish your skin back to a strong, healthy state. Below is a roundup of the best ingredients to douse your thirsty complexion in moisture and hydration, rebalancing the skin to amp up your most glowing appearance. Keep scrolling for the lowdown.


Shea Butter

Shea Butter is the fat extracted from shea tree nuts that is rich in nutrients and fatty acids. Not only does it soften and condition the skin, but it also offers anti-inflammatory and healing benefits. This emollient locks moisture into the skin and prevents transepidermal moisture loss, ensuring a supple complexion as a whole.

haruharu wonder - Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence

haruharu wonder - Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - haruharu wonder

La Roche Posay - Cicaplast Baume B5+

La Roche Posay - Cicaplast Baume B5+

Courtesy of French Skincare Brand - La Roche Posay


Ceramide

Ceramides are lipids naturally produced in the skin that help to maintain a healthy skin barrier. Using Ceramide skincare is great for barrier repair and sealing moisture into the dermis, preventing dryness and irritation. All skin types can reach for Ceramide to replenish the skin’s hydration levels, including those suffering from psoriasis and eczema.

Biodance - Cera-Nol Gel Toner Pads

Biodance - Cera-Nol Gel Toner Pads

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Biodance

ILLIYOON - Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream

ILLIYOON - Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - ILLIYOON


Hyaluronic Acid

It’s likely that when you tell someone your skin is dry, they’ll direct you towards Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic Acid is responsible for drawing moisture into the skin, creating a plumped effect that improves the appearance of fine lines and dullness. It’s lightweight and oil-free, good for users seeking hydration without a heavy, greasy feeling.

VT - Hydrop Reedle Shot 300hL

VT - Hydrop Reedle Shot 300hL

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - VT

COSRX - Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream

COSRX - Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - COSRX


Polyglutamic Acid

Polyglutamic Acid is less common than Hyaluronic Acid, but derms will argue it’s an even more effective acid for hydration. It performs the same role as Hyaluronic Acid but holds 4 times the amount of hydration, attracting and sealing moisture in the skin while fending off moisture loss. Both can actually be used together, as Polyglutamic Acid is not an antioxidant and will prevent Hyaluronic Acid from breaking down.

TirTir - SOS Serum

TirTir - SOS Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - TirTir

SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule

SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SKIN1004


Beta-Glucan

An even more underrated hydrating ingredient to take note of is Beta-Glucan, derived from yeast, fungi, seaweed or oats. It works similarly to Hyaluronic Acid in that it attracts hydration to the skin to soothe and calm irritation, as well as give the complexion a plumping boost. Beta-Glucan is clinically proven to hold 20% more hydration than Hyaluronic Acid, and is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.

iUNIK - Beta Glucan Daily Moisture Cream

iUNIK - Beta Glucan Daily Moisture Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - iUNIK

mixsoon - Beta-Glucan Essence

mixsoon - Beta-Glucan Essence

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - mixsoon


Panthenol

Panthenol originates from Panthenoic Acid (Vitamin B3) and delivers moisturizing, soothing and ani-inflammatory benefits in one go. It’s a trusted ingredient for healing wounds, which is why it’s highly recommended for users with sensitive skin, redness and irritation. Using Panthenol daily will keep the skin soft and elastic, in addition to maintaining a healthy moisture level within the skin.

Purito SEOUL - Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream

Purito SEOUL - Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Purito SEOUL

ETUDE - Soon Jung PH 5.5 Relief Toner

ETUDE - Soon Jung PH 5.5 Relief Toner

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - ETUDE


Which ingredients are you reaching for to curb dryness and dullness? Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!