By Alexander Johnston and Teo van den Broeke

As we head into the dark months of winter, the cold and wet weather, coupled with the cranking up of central heating, can play havoc with the moisture levels of our skin. Dry skin can cause sensitivity, acne flare-ups and more visible wrinkles, so it is essential that you keep your skin hydrated and calm.

To do this, you need a good moisturiser, but, as you may or may not know, not all moisturisers have been created equal.

Let’s start with some basics; when shopping for a moisturising cream or serum you are looking for a product containing humectant ingredients, which attract moisture and lock it away in your skin until you need it.

Currently, the most celebrated humectant in skincare is hyaluronic acid, or HA, which is known for its ability to store almost 1000 times its weight in water, keeping your skin tight, plump and hydrated. This magic molecule is found in a wide array of skincare products and it has an enviable track record for results – but is there an even better option out there?

The short answer is yes - and it is called Polyglutamic acid, or y-PGA in scientific circles. This novel peptide is actually derived from bacteria produced by fermenting soya beans, so it has both topical and edible applications.

Research into Polyglutamic acid has shown that it can hold as much as 10 times the amount of water that HA can, making it the ultimate hydrator, but it doesn’t stop there. y-PGA can also promote the natural production of lactic acid (an exfoliant), it stimulates the skin’s natural moisturising mechanism, can increase the elasticity of the skin and, rather interestingly, inhibits the breaking down of hyaluronic acid in the dermis, making PGA and HA more effective when used together.

In short, fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed, hyperpigmentation is minimised and the skin becomes firmer and more hydrated.

Dr Irena Eris’ Aquality range is all about the y-PGA. This super hydrating cream is perfect for skin that is prone to dryness and is packed full of vitamin E to soothe and defend your protective outer layer.

Moisturiser by Dr Irena Eris, £40, johnbellcroyden.co.uk

Derm Institutes’ Anti Oxidant hydration serum offers a powerful punch of moisture deep into the skin using their innovative nano-gold delivery system. Niacinamides and cucumber extract calm and revive the skin leaving you with a fresh glow.

Serum by Derm Institute, £108, johnbellcroyden.co.uk

The Inkey List offers an affordable and effective serum that locks moisture in and protects the surface layer.

Serum by The Inkey List, £13, theinkeylist.com

111Skin’s The Hydration Concentrate is a seven-day hydration programme that intensively moisturises and destresses the skin using the humectant power of y-PGA in combination with HA, vitamin C and plant botanicals. By day seven, you will feel reborn.

Serums by 111skin, £125, johnbellcroyden.co.uk

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