Why Humectants Are the Key to Ultimate Skin Hydration: Everything You Should Know

Healthy skin is one of the most common beauty goals, with many products offering solutions to achieve a radiant complexion. One key ingredient often found in skincare products is the humectant, known for its ability to help retain skin moisture. Humectants work by drawing water from the surrounding environment into the skin and holding it in the skin’s layers, providing long-lasting hydration. This helps combat signs of ageing by maintaining the skin’s moisture, which is vital for keeping it firm and elastic.

Humectants are used in a variety of products, including both skincare and haircare, designed to deliver deep hydration. Because of their effective moisture-retaining properties, humectants are frequently a core component in anti-ageing formulas. As such, they play a key role in supporting youthful, healthy-looking skin.

According to cosmetic chemists and dermatologists, humectants offer many benefits. For example, Dr Shuting Hu explains that humectants not only help keep the skin hydrated but also support the skin’s overall structure. Similarly, Dr Marisa Garshick and her colleagues note that regular use of humectants can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines—both important for maintaining youthful, healthy skin.

With this understanding, it’s important to recognise the role humectants play in your skincare routine.

What Is a Humectant?

Humectants are essential ingredients in skincare due to their ability to maintain skin moisture. According to Dr Shuting Hu, humectants work by drawing moisture from the environment and holding it on the surface of the skin, helping to prevent dryness. They are commonly found in skincare products such as serums, lotions, and creams that are designed to keep the skin hydrated.

Well-known humectants include hyaluronic acid and collagen-boosting ingredients, which are frequently used in everyday skincare products. While there are many types of humectants, they all share the same goal: to enhance skin hydration. These ingredients can come from natural sources, such as honey and aloe vera—long used in traditional medicine—as well as from synthetic compounds like glycerin and propylene glycol, which are industrially produced.

However, it’s important to use humectants correctly. Dr Puza warns that humectants should not be applied to dry skin, as they function by attracting moisture. For best results, humectants should be used on damp skin, allowing them to pull in and lock in hydration effectively. Proper use of humectants can help keep the skin moisturised and prevent dryness-related skin issues.

Top Benefits of Humectants for Skin Hydration

Humectants offer a wide range of benefits that make them highly valuable in skincare. As ingredients designed to attract moisture, humectants act like sponges—drawing in water and holding up to 100 to 1,000 times their weight in moisture, according to Dr Marisa Garshick. This helps keep the skin hydrated for longer periods, maintaining optimal moisture levels.

In addition to attracting moisture, humectants can also act as occlusives. This means they help seal gaps in the skin, reducing water loss by blocking evaporation. Dr Puza explains that this quality helps protect the skin from external factors that can cause dryness.

Some humectants, such as urea, also have keratolytic properties, meaning they help break down and remove dead skin cells. This is particularly useful for dry or rough areas like the heels. Humectants also serve to dissolve active ingredients and help maintain the stability and consistency of skincare products, as noted by Dr Shirazi.

Moreover, humectants can act as gentle exfoliators, helping to smooth the skin by removing dead cells and evening out moisture distribution. They also help soothe irritated skin, offering relief from inflammation and discomfort caused by external irritants, according to Dr Hu.

Finally, humectants play a role in repairing the skin’s outer layer, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making the skin look plumper and healthier—another benefit highlighted by Dr Hu. With all these advantages, humectants are a key component in achieving healthy, glowing skin.

Side Effects of Humectants

While humectants are generally safe to use and rarely cause significant side effects, it’s important to understand how to apply them correctly. The best time to use a humectant is after cleansing, when the skin is still damp. Applying humectants to dry skin can reduce their effectiveness. As Dr Shirazi puts it, humectants can be your “best friend” for dry skin, but they can also be your “worst enemy” if used incorrectly.

Problems can arise when the air is dry and humectants are applied repeatedly without considering skin condition or environmental factors. In such cases, humectants may draw moisture not from the air, but from the deeper layers of the skin, leading to even more dryness. This happens because humectants pull water to the skin’s surface, but in low-humidity conditions, they may take that moisture from within the skin itself—worsening dry skin over time.

Dr Garshick also notes that too much moisture can damage the skin’s barrier. The skin barrier only needs a certain amount of water to function properly. If too much water is added, it can disrupt the barrier’s structure and lead to issues like irritation or sensitivity.

For these reasons, it’s essential to use humectants wisely—especially in low-humidity environments—to ensure the skin stays healthy, balanced, and well-hydrated.

Potential Side Effects of Using Humectants

Although humectants typically do not cause significant side effects, proper usage is essential to gain their full benefits. The best time to apply humectants is right after cleansing, while the skin is still damp. Applying them to dry skin can reduce their ability to lock in moisture.

Dr Shirazi explains that humectants can be your “best friend” when it comes to dry skin, but they can also become your “worst enemy” if used under the wrong conditions. A major concern arises in low-humidity environments, especially when humectants are applied multiple times a day. In such situations, instead of pulling moisture from the air, humectants may draw water from the deeper layers of the skin, which can lead to increased dryness. Since humectants attract moisture to the skin’s surface, they need water from the surrounding air. When that’s not available, they take it from within the skin.

Dr Garshick adds that too much moisture can also harm the skin barrier. The skin’s barrier is designed to hold a certain amount of water to function properly. When excess moisture is introduced, the barrier can become disrupted, leading to irritation, increased sensitivity, or even making the skin more prone to infections and other external aggressors.

This is why it’s important to use humectants wisely—considering environmental conditions and avoiding overuse—to keep the skin balanced, healthy, and properly hydrated.

How to Use

Skincare products containing humectants can be used at various steps in your routine, as long as the skin is still damp. Applying products to damp skin helps improve absorption, allowing moisture to be drawn in more effectively. Water-based products are often formulated with humectants, not only for their hydrating effects but also for their mild preservative properties, which help extend product shelf life. As Dr Hu points out, many of the skincare products you already use may contain humectants without you even realising it.

Dr Hu also notes that humectant-based products can be used both day and night. However, to prevent the moisture attracted by humectants from evaporating, they should be followed by an occlusive ingredient—unless you’re in a very humid environment. Without this protective layer, the moisture brought to the skin’s surface can easily escape into the air, reducing the product’s effectiveness.

Dr Garshick highlights that humectants are beneficial in a wide range of product types, including oils, serums, and creams. However, they are most effective when applied to damp skin, as this allows them to pull in and retain more moisture. She also stresses the importance of combining humectants with other ingredients that help lock in moisture and support the skin barrier. For example, using a hyaluronic acid serum followed by a moisturiser containing ceramides can help strengthen the skin barrier and keep the skin hydrated for longer.

Best Skincare Products Containing Humectants

Vichy Minéral 89

This lightweight facial moisturiser, formulated with hyaluronic acid and Vichy Mineral-Rich Volcanic Water, is designed to provide optimal hydration while supporting the skin’s natural barrier. Hyaluronic acid helps draw moisture into the skin, delivering deep hydration that leaves the skin looking smoother and more supple. At the same time, Vichy’s mineral-rich volcanic water helps strengthen the skin barrier, which protects against environmental damage and helps retain natural moisture.

According to Dr Garshick, using this product can visibly improve the skin’s appearance, making it look more plump and smooth. The moisturiser is easy to apply—either on its own or layered under a richer cream, depending on your skin’s needs. Thanks to its lightweight texture, it’s suitable for all skin types, especially those looking for hydration without a heavy or sticky feel. With regular use, the skin feels fresher and stays hydrated throughout the day, making it an ideal choice for daily skincare routines.

Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum

This hyaluronic acid serum is formulated with multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to deliver hydration across different layers of the skin. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid penetrates deeper into the skin, providing intense moisture from within, while higher molecular weights work on the surface to lock in moisture and smooth the skin. This combination ensures deep, long-lasting hydration—keeping the skin soft, supple, and well-moisturised.

Dr Garshick notes that this serum not only hydrates the skin but also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines. Hyaluronic acid improves skin texture, making it smoother and plumper, while offering a visible plumping effect that helps diminish signs of ageing. With regular use, the serum supports skin elasticity and gives the complexion a fresher, more youthful look. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially for those seeking deep hydration and anti-ageing benefits.

Thayers Rose Water Facial Toner

This alcohol-free facial toner is recommended by Dr Garshick for its natural ingredients that help soothe and hydrate the skin. Witch hazel, the key ingredient, is well known for its ability to reduce inflammation and control excess oil, making it a great choice for acne-prone or easily irritated skin. Meanwhile, aloe vera helps calm the skin, reduce redness, and support recovery for sensitive or irritated areas.

Glycerin, a powerful humectant, draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain optimal hydration. By binding water to the skin’s surface, glycerin improves overall softness and keeps the skin well-moisturised.

This toner not only helps even out skin tone by reducing redness and irritation, but also delivers deep hydration, leaving the skin feeling fresh and smooth. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially for those looking for a gentle yet effective toner that maintains skin hydration without causing dryness or irritation. With regular use, it can improve skin texture and promote a healthier-looking complexion.

Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Eye Mask

Dr Garshick explains that this eye mask is designed to hydrate the under-eye area and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles through its key ingredient: hyaluronic acid. Known for its exceptional ability to attract and retain moisture, hyaluronic acid helps plump and moisturise the skin, leaving the delicate eye area looking smoother and more supple—particularly where signs of ageing like fine lines tend to appear.

In addition, the eye mask helps reduce the appearance of under-eye bags. It contains calendula extract, a natural anti-inflammatory that soothes swelling and helps relieve tired-looking eyes. Calendula works by calming the skin and reducing inflammation, which in turn helps minimise puffiness and provides a refreshed, de-puffed appearance.

With regular use, this eye mask delivers deep hydration, reduces puffiness, and leaves the under-eye area looking brighter, smoother, and more revitalised. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to address signs of fatigue and ageing around the eyes.

Tatcha Dewy Cream

This cream contains antioxidants that are highly beneficial for fighting free radicals and protecting the skin from environmental damage, such as pollution and UV exposure. Despite being deeply hydrating, this cream won’t cause breakouts, even for acne-prone skin. Its formula is designed to provide moisture without clogging pores or triggering inflammation, which are common causes of acne.

In addition to providing optimal hydration, this cream also has a firming and smoothing effect on the skin. With regular use, the skin’s texture feels smoother, while the skin appears plumper and stays well-moisturised. The cream lives up to its promises, delivering visible results with skin that looks healthier and more hydrated, without the worry of skin issues like acne. This product is perfect for those with acne-prone skin who still need extra moisture.

La Roche Posay Face Repair Lotion

This product offers luxurious quality at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for consumers looking for an effective product with great value. Dr Puza refers to it as an “outstanding daily lotion” due to its ability to provide both hydration and skin protection in one product. The lotion contains niacinamide, an ingredient known for its ability to address free radical damage, repair the skin barrier, and brighten the skin. Niacinamide also helps reduce inflammation and improve skin elasticity.

At 3 ounces, this product is practical and travel-friendly, making it easy to take with you wherever you go without worrying about space. This lotion is perfect for use as part of a daily skincare routine, offering hydration and protection from environmental damage. With its lightweight and effective formula, this product is ideal for skin that needs gentle yet beneficial care.

Neutrogena Hyaluronic Acid Serum

This serum is an excellent pharmacy choice, especially for those looking for a simple yet effective formula. Dr Puza explains that this serum is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

The serum acts as a highly efficient moisturising agent. Just a few drops after cleansing your face can provide maximum hydration, thanks to its powerful hydrators. The formula works to soothe and hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling fresher and more moisturised throughout the day. Since it’s fragrance-free, this serum is also ideal for those sensitive to added ingredients or those looking for a minimal yet effective skincare product. It’s the perfect choice for those prioritising hydration and comfort without the risk of irritation.

First-Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

Shirazi recommends this quickly absorbed, rich moisturiser, which contains colloidal oatmeal—an ingredient known for its ability to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. Colloidal oatmeal helps calm irritated skin and repair the skin barrier. This product also contains glycerin, a humectant that draws moisture from the air to provide long-lasting hydration, working alongside shea butter to moisturise and soothe dry skin. Shea butter also has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and irritation.

Additionally, the inclusion of allantoin helps calm and relieve the skin, easing any itching or discomfort caused by dryness. Shirazi suggests this product for those with dry skin who need a heavier moisturiser that provides deep hydration. With its combination of ingredients, this cream is perfect for addressing dry and irritated skin, offering intensive moisture and protection.

AziMD Intense Recovery Complex

This moisturiser is formulated with glycerin and dimethicone, which act as humectants and occlusives to hydrate and lock moisture into the skin. Glycerin draws water into the skin, while dimethicone forms a protective layer that helps prevent moisture loss. Shirazi also explains that this product contains ceramides and panthenol, two key ingredients in repairing the skin barrier. Ceramides help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier, while panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) soothes and accelerates the skin’s regeneration process.

Additionally, these ingredients help reduce acne-causing bacteria, making this product ideal for acne-prone skin. With its lightweight texture, this moisturiser is suitable for dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. Its gentle and effective formula provides hydration without causing irritation, making it perfect for those seeking a moisturiser that can soothe the skin while improving skin barrier health.

Acaderma Better With Age Replenishing Light Cream

This cream is formulated with hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture from the air into the skin and helps maintain skin hydration throughout the day. Hyaluronic acid provides deep moisture without clogging pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin. Hu also explains that this Light Replenishing Cream contains ceramides, which repair the skin barrier and help retain the skin’s natural moisture.

In addition, the cream contains MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), peptides, and collagen, which work to support skin elasticity, improve firmness, and even out skin texture. MSM helps reduce inflammation and supports skin health, while peptides and collagen stimulate skin regeneration for smoother, firmer skin. With this combination of ingredients, the cream is highly effective in providing intensive hydration while improving the appearance of the skin, keeping it healthy and well-moisturised.

Anove AHA + Aloe Cleansing Gel

Hu explains that many facial cleansers can dry out the skin, but the AHA + Aloe Cleansing Gel uses Aloe Vera as the main ingredient to provide extra hydration. Aloe Vera is known for its ability to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and offer deep moisture. This product helps maintain skin hydration after cleansing, preventing the skin from becoming dry or irritated.

In addition, AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) in this cleansing gel acts as a gentle exfoliator, helping to remove dead skin cells and accelerate skin regeneration, leaving the skin looking brighter and smoother. The combination of Aloe Vera and AHA offers the perfect balance between hydrating the skin and cleansing it effectively without causing irritation or dryness. This cleansing gel is ideal for sensitive or easily irritated skin, providing hydration and protection after use.