Hyaluronic acid and sodium PCA rarely make headlines. They are not the exciting part of a formula, but they quietly do something every routine needs: they help skin hold on to water, so it looks and feels hydrated. Here is what they are, where you will find them in the Kinis range, and how to layer them under your moisturizer.
First, what is a humectant?
A humectant is an ingredient that attracts and holds water. On the skin, humectants help the upper layers stay hydrated, which is why skin can feel softer, more comfortable and less tight after using them. Hyaluronic acid, sodium PCA and glycerin are three of the best known.
Many women notice their skin feels drier or tighter in midlife than it used to. Humectants will not change what is happening inside your body, but they are a simple, comfortable way to help your skin look and feel better hydrated day to day.
Hyaluronic acid: the water holder.
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that holds water in the upper layers of the skin, helping it look and feel more hydrated and plumper. It has a light, almost weightless feel, which is why it appears in so many serums and finishes.
Nourish and Harmony each contain two forms of hyaluronic acid, paired with sodium PCA for layered hydration.
Sodium PCA: the quiet partner.
Sodium PCA is part of the skin’s own natural moisturizing factor, the mix of substances that helps skin stay comfortable. Used in skincare, it helps skin hold on to water, so it feels softer and less tight. Alongside hyaluronic acid, it makes a gentle, dependable hydration duo.
Glycerin is the third member of the family: a classic humectant that draws water into the skin and helps it feel comfortable, especially after cleansing.
Where you will find them in the range.
- Nourish: hyaluronic acid (two forms) and sodium PCA, with sunflower seed oil, watercress and elderberry. Our most hydration-focused serum.
- Harmony: hyaluronic acid (two forms) and sodium PCA, with prebiotics, in a jelly serum you mix into your daily cream.
- Refresh: sodium PCA and glycerin in a sulfate-free gel wash, so skin feels comfortable after cleansing.
- Poise and Radiance: hyaluronic acid works alongside their key ingredients.
- Awaken: glycerin, alongside 1% caffeine, in an oil-free gel booster.
How to layer them under your moisturizer.
Humectants work best as part of a routine, with something on top to help keep that hydration where you want it. That is the job of your moisturizer, the one you already love. Kinis does not make a moisturizer: our serums sit under yours or mix into it.
- Cleanse with Refresh, morning and evening.
- Apply Nourish to clean skin, morning and evening.
- Follow with your moisturizer. If your skin feels unsettled, mix a few drops of Harmony into it.
If you would like these steps in one box, The Comfort Ritual brings together Refresh, Harmony and Nourish, for skin that feels dry, tight or unsettled.
The foundation, not the finale.
We think of hyaluronic acid, sodium PCA and glycerin as the everyday foundation of a routine. They are not the most impressive ingredients on the label, and that is rather the point. Well-hydrated skin is simply more comfortable, and a comfortable base makes it easier to enjoy the rest of your routine.
Once that foundation is in place, the standout actives are the next layer:
- Peptides in Poise, for smoother, firmer-looking skin.
- Bakuchiol in Restore, a natural retinol alternative for the evening.
- Vitamin C in Radiance, for a brighter-looking glow in the mornings.
- Prebiotics in Harmony, for skin that feels balanced and calm.
Choose the one that matches your main priority, and introduce it on its own so you can see how your skin responds. Our rituals and FAQs can help you decide where to start.
Kinis Skin products are cosmetics. They are not intended to treat menopause symptoms. If you have concerns about your skin or your health, please speak to your doctor or pharmacist.