When shopping for skincare, it is easy to be drawn in by packaging and familiar names. But the most useful products are often defined by what’s inside. Beyond the well-known Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, here are five ingredients that help with the skin barrier, hydration, calming sensitivity, and healthier-looking skin that you should know about before making your next purchase. 

Ecotin

Ectoin helps protect your skin from everyday stress like pollution, sun exposure and dry air. Derived from microorganisms that survive harsh environments, think of it as a shield that also helps your skin hold on to moisture, making it a good pick if your skin often feels dry, tight or easily irritated.

Products to Know: The INKEY List Ecotin Hydro-barrier Serum, Biossance Squalane and Ecotin Overnight Rescue Serum

Polyglutamic Acid

Look for polyglutamic acid if your skin loses moisture quickly or feels tight by the end of the day. Formed through microbial fermentation, it forms a thin, breathable layer on the skin that seals in the water and is known to work very well alongside hyaluronic acid. 

Products to Know: Dermalogica Circular Hydration Serum, Charlotte Tilbury Magic Serum Crystal Elixir

Peptides

Peptides are tiny building blocks that help skin look firmer and smoother over time. They are often found in anti-ageing products because they support the skin’s natural strength and elasticity. 

Products to Know: Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics Peptide Serum, Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum

Beta-glucan

Beta-glucan comes from oats, yeast or fungi and is known for being very soothing. Working well in calming skin redness while also adding gentle hydration. If you’re someone with sensitive skin, beta-glucan is the essential ingredient to watch out for. 

Products to Know: Allies of Skin Beta Glucan & Resveratrol Advanced Hydrating Serum, 

LYMPHANAX™

A fermented ginseng ingredient developed by Amorepacific, it helps with lymphatic activation, anti-ageing and recovery, and helps support the skin barrier. Featured prominently in Sulwhasoo products, it makes the skin look healthier and more radiant. 

Products to Know: Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum VI, Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Mask