Baobab is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which helps heal the skin barrier so it's better able to lock in moisture. It also has soothing, anti-inflammatory benefits. If you're seeking a hydrating product that's slightly lighter, the new Fenty Skin Instant Reset Overnight Recovery Gel-Cream, $40, is a great option. It's made with baobab to support deep hydration, as well as hyaluronic acid and globally sourced Kalahari melon oil.
This coveted skin care ingredient that attracts moisture to your skin for a plumped look and hydrated, dewy complexion. InnBeauty Project's Slushy, $28 is another lightweight option that'll still quench thirsty skin. You can even layer it underneath another cream if you want to double down. It's a simple formula that combines hyaluronic acid and bakuchiol (a natural retinol alternative that's less irritating). The "slushy serum" is named the unique texture, which is created via a high-speed spinning process that mixes the two ingredients.
We often think of CBD as an ingredient that calms and soothes, but it's also an incredible hydrator. It's an oil, after all, and can help prevent water loss when applied topically. If you're curious to try a CBD cream, the newly launched Happy Dance line — a collaboration between Lord Jones and Kristen Bell — is a great introduction to the category. Try the Happy Dance CBD Body Butter, $30, a whipped, creamy moisturizer that won't leave behind a greasy residue.
An ingredient that's stood the test of time, jojoba oil is an emollient moisturizing ingredient, which means it creates a gentle seal over your skin to lock in hydration. It's so heralded in the beauty community because of how similar in consistency it is to our own sebum.
Jojoba oil is also rich in vitamins A, E, and D and boasts anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. For a great formulation, try Alchimie Forever's Kantic+ Intensely Nourishing Cream, $79. In addition to deeply hydrating the skin, it can soothe your skin while helping reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
Honey is a powerful humectant, meaning it helps your skin absorb moisture from the environment and aids in retention, too. It's also an incredibly gentle ingredient with anti-inflammatory benefits and protective antioxidants. The entire Mymiel line — which was founded and formulated by two dermatologists at the Harvard hospitals — utilizes honey as a key ingredient. For example, the Day Dream Hydrating Creme, $56. This deeply nourishing moisturizer combines honey extracts with brightening chrysin, nourishing floral extracts, and hyaluronic acid. It has a unique whipped texture that feels silky and lightweight on your skin.
