Which ingredient is renowned for its hydrating properties?

Hyaluronic acid is renowned for its exceptional hydrating properties due to its ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This makes it an outstanding ingredient for maintaining skin moisture levels and providing a plumping effect. It works by attracting moisture from the environment into the skin, which helps to keep the skin hydrated, smooth, and youthful-looking.

In contrast, while glycolic acid and lactic acid are both alpha hydroxy acids that exfoliate the skin and can enhance moisture retention indirectly, they are primarily used for their peeling and renewing effects rather than direct hydration. Salicylic acid, on the other hand, is primarily known for its exfoliating and acne-fighting properties and tends to have a drying effect due to its oil-soluble nature, making it less effective for hydration purposes. Therefore, hyaluronic acid stands out distinctly when it comes to ingredients specifically dedicated to hydrating the skin.