Which ingredient in skin care can help to hydrate and plump the skin?

Hyaluronic acid is renowned for its ability to hydrate and plump the skin because of its unique capacity to attract and retain moisture. This naturally occurring substance can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an exceptional humectant. When applied topically, hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the environment into the skin, which can significantly enhance skin hydration levels. This results in a noticeably more plump and youthful appearance, as well as improving overall skin texture and elasticity.

In contrast to hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) primarily used for exfoliation, promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture rather than directly hydrating the skin. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is mainly recognized for its ability to penetrate pores and treat acne, so it does not serve the primary purpose of hydrating. Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that supports skin renewal and boosts collagen production but may cause initial dryness as it works to improve skin appearance and is not primarily designed for hydration. Thus, hyaluronic acid stands out as the ingredient specifically known for hydrating and plumping the skin effectively.