What to look for in hydrating skincare

Hydrated skin is essential for a healthy, radiant complexion—here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for hydrating skincare products.

1. Key Ingredients

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Look for proven hydrators like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, and ceramides. These ingredients help attract and lock in moisture, keeping skin plump and comfortable.

2. Skin Type Compatibility

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Choose formulas suited to your skin type—lightweight gels or serums for oily or acne-prone skin, and richer creams or balms for dry or mature complexions.

3. Gentle Formulation

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If you have sensitive skin, select gentle or minimal-ingredient options to minimize the risk of irritation while still delivering deep hydration.

4. Layering Ability

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Consider how well the product layers with your existing routine. Hydrating serums and essences should absorb quickly without pilling under sunscreen or makeup.

  1. 1
    Hydraboost Duo Set
    157 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Hydrate parched skin with this nourishing duo.
  2. 2
    The Revitalizing Hydrating Serum
    79 REVIEWS
    A lightweight, powerfully hydrating face serum that nurtures skin with sea-sourced energy for your most radiant, healthy-looking, complexion yet.
  3. 3
    The Super Hydrator

    U Beauty

    421 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A mega-dose of moisture that keeps hydrating for up to 48 hours.
  4. 4
    Hydra-Global

    Sisley Paris

    34 REVIEWS
    An intensive, hydrating and anti-aging skin care product designed to provide a comprehensive solution to skin dehydration.
  5. 5
    Hydra Balm

    SkinCeuticals

    118 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Soothing balm originally created to aid post-operative recovery, which treats the symptoms of severely dry and sensitive skin while improving overall hydration.
  6. 6
    Dry Body Oil

    Moroccanoil

    63 REVIEWS
    Instant moisturizer for the skin in an oil formula powered by the nourishing properties of argan oil rich in essential fatty acids, plus olive and avocado oils.
  7. 7
    Hydrating B5 Gel

    SkinCeuticals

    892 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Oil-free hydrating gel replenishes moisture and restores radiance for a smooth, supple complexion.
  8. 8
    Emollience

    SkinCeuticals

    341 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Rich and restorative dry skin moisturizer formulated with an exclusive blend of natural extracts and oils.
  9. 9
    Moisture Surge Hydrating Supercharged Concentrate
    637 REVIEWS
    Antioxidant-infused water-gel gives skin an intense moisture boost.
  10. 10
    The Hydrating Infused Emulsion
    5,008 REVIEWS
    A nourishing emulsion to protect and defend skin from dryness, helping it feel more soft and supple.

What to look for in hydrating skincare

Hydrated skin is essential for a healthy, radiant complexion—here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for hydrating skincare products.

1. Key Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for proven hydrators like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, and ceramides. These ingredients help attract and lock in moisture, keeping skin plump and comfortable.

2. Skin Type Compatibility

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose formulas suited to your skin type—lightweight gels or serums for oily or acne-prone skin, and richer creams or balms for dry or mature complexions.

3. Gentle Formulation

Citrus catapult arrow

If you have sensitive skin, select gentle or minimal-ingredient options to minimize the risk of irritation while still delivering deep hydration.

4. Layering Ability

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider how well the product layers with your existing routine. Hydrating serums and essences should absorb quickly without pilling under sunscreen or makeup.