This Is The Most Hydrating Ingredient On The Planet – And It Costs $15!

If you’ve heard us singing the praises of hydrating superpower hyaluronic acid, then just wait till you hear about the newest skincare ingredient that is four times more hydrating! Say hey to your new skincare BFF, polyglutamic acid, an amino acid polymer that is four times more moisturizing than hyaluronic acid!! While hyaluronic acid (HA) occurs naturally in your skin and can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, polyglutamic acid (PGA) has been shown to hold 4000 or 5000 times its weight in water.

The Difference Between Hyaluronic Acid and Polyglutamic Acid

Although both acids are humectants – they draw and hold water in the skin – they’re molecular structures are different. PGA has a larger molecular structure than HA, which allows it to create a thin film on the top layer of the skin that prevents water loss and plumps the skin, which also helps to diminish the appearance of fine lines.

Studies have also shown that polyglutamic acid improves skin’s elasticity, more so than even collagen and hyaluronic acid. PGA might even prevent and decrease hyaluronidase production, which is what breaks down the natural hyaluronic acid in our skin.

In a nutshell: Hyaluronic acid is able to penetrate deeper into the skin to hydrate the epidermis at a deeper level, while polyglutamic acid helps increase natural moisturization factors at the surface of the skin. Essentially, if you use both together, your skin will be next level hydrated!

How To Use Polyglutamic Acid In Your Routine

This ingredient is super new to the beauty world and it’s mainly popping up in serum formulas. It’s perfect to use after cleansing and toning, and before your moisturizer – the moisturizer will lock in all the hydration.

Our Fave Polyglutamic Acid Formula

If you’re as convinced as we are that polyglutamic acid is the new skincare ingredient you need in your routine, then check out our fave formula, The Inkey List Polyglutamic Acid, $15. The glass-like-looking serum spreads so easily it feels like it’s melting into your skin and thanks to the addition of Invisiaskin, it creates an invisible, water-soluble film on the skin that also helps even skin tone.

This 3% polyglutamic acid complex formula is ideal for all skin types, from dry and normal to combination and oily and is non-comedogenic – so it won’t break you out! If you want to combine it with hyaluronic acid, we recommend applying HA first and then following with your PGA formula.