Hydration is at the heart of the Korean skincare philosophy. While hyaluronic acid dominates the Western market, Korean cosmetics are exploring natural alternatives that are just as effective, if not superior. Let's discover these hydration treasures.
Hyaluronic Acid: The Gold Standard Moisturizer
Mechanism of Action Capable of retaining up to 1000 times its weight in water, hyaluronic acid forms a reservoir of hydration in the upper layers of the epidermis.
Types of Hyaluronic Acid
- High molecular weight: Surface action, immediate smoothing effect
- Low molecular weight: Deep penetration, long-lasting hydration
- Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid: Better absorption, enhanced effectiveness
Revolutionary Korean Alternatives
1. Snail Mucin
- Benefits: Hydration + regeneration + soothing
- Comparison: More complete than hyaluronic acid alone
- Texture: Richer and more nourishing
2. Beta-Glucan (Oats)
- Origin: Fermented oat extract
- Properties: Intense hydration + anti-inflammatory properties
- Benefits: Better tolerated by sensitive skin
3. Polyglutamic Acid
- Performance: Retains 4x more water than hyaluronic acid
- Source: Soybean fermentation (natto)
- Innovation: Forms a more resistant protective film
4. Tremella Fuciformis (Snow Mushroom)
- Capacity: Superior hydration to hyaluronic acid
- Special feature: Smaller molecules, better penetration
- Origin: Traditional Chinese medicine adopted by K-beauty
5. Centella Asiatica
- Double action: Hydration + healing
- Specificity: Ideal for problem skin
- Durability: Long-lasting hydration with restorative benefits
Comparison Table
| Ingredient | Hydration | Tolerance | Price | Innovation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyaluronic Acid | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Snail Mucin | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Polyglutamic Acid | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Tremella | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Centella | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
Recommended Products:
🌟 TORRIDEN DIVE-IN Low Molecule Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Price: Around €16
- Formula: 5 types of hyaluronic acid + marine peptides
- Concentration: 50% moisturizing ingredients
- Texture: Light serum, fast absorption
- Results: Deep hydration for 72 hours
🌟 BEAUTY OF JOSEON Glow Deep Serum
- Price: Around €15
- Active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid + vitamin C + niacinamide
- Innovation: Brightening + moisturizing formula
- Ideal for: Dull skin lacking radiance