Sure, the names might sound like something out of a science textbook, but don’t let that complicate things—simply put, these ingredients work together to support your skin’s health and repair process. “It’s a great option for post-procedure or compromised skin—along with skin recovering from irritation, sensitivity, or damage,” says Dr. Rambhia.

Editor’s tip: The skin barrier can easily become compromised from simple things like over-exfoliation, medications, a change in temperature, and even hot water.

Additional ingredients: copper lysinate complex, acetyl hexapeptide-8 complex, copper tripeptide complex | Fragrance-free: yes

Best Serum for Dry Skin: Prequel Multi-Quench Plumping Hydration Serum

Multi-Quench Plumping Hydration Serum

Why we love it: Ectoin is a powerful skin protectant and humectant, but when paired with other hydrators, it becomes, as board-certified dermatologist Pooja Rambhia, MD, puts it, “a hydration powerhouse.” She explains that by combining ectoin with a high-molecular-weight amino acid like polyglutamic acid, along with barrier-supporting glycerin, the formula helps lock in deep, long-lasting moisture. The Multi-Quench Plumping Hydration Serum from Prequel does exactly that—all in one super-gentle, lightweight formula.

Editor’s tip: Although the science is still out, polyglutamic acid is said to outperform hyaluronic acid in hydration, holding 4,000-5,000 times its weight in water compared to hyaluronic acid’s 1,000 times.

Additional ingredients: glycerin, vitamin E, polyglutamic acid | Fragrance-free: yes

Best Serum for Acne-Prone Skin: Dr.G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Active Essence

Red Blemish Clear Soothing Active Essence

Why we love it: If you’re dealing with acne or the irritation that comes with it, the R.E.D Blemish Clear Soothing Active Essence is packed with ingredients to help calm and protect your skin. Along with ectoin, it features madecassoside, a K-beauty favourite known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Because acne-prone skin often has a weakened barrier, Dr. Rambhia recommends this serum as it “calms inflammation, soothes redness, and supports a healthy skin microbiome.”

Editor’s tip: Madecassoside is one of the main components of centella asiatica—i.e., a regenerative and healing ingredient used in Asia for centuries.

Additional ingredients: madecassoside, niacinamide, allantoin | Fragrance-free: yes

Best Essence: Dr. Loretta Barrier Enhancing Milky Essence

Barrier Enhancing Milky Essence

Why we love it: The Barrier Enhancing Milky Essence, like all of Dr. Loretta’s products, focuses on protecting skin from everyday stressors that cause damage. Ectoin is a key player, shielding your skin from UV rays and pollution, while niacinamide and glycerin work together to strengthen the skin’s barrier and help it bounce back from daily wear and tear. “This formula is an excellent choice for anyone with sensitive or stressed skin needing hydration and protection due to exposure to free radicals,” says Dr. Rambhia.

Editor’s tip: For the uninitiated, an essence is a lightweight, concentrated formula packed with ingredients that hydrate and refresh your skin after cleansing, while prepping it for the next steps in your skin-care routine.

Additional ingredients: niacinamide, glycerin | Fragrance-free: yes

Best Toner: Ma:nyo Panthetoin Essence Toner

Panthetoin Essence Toner

Why we love it: The Manyo Panthetoin Essence Toner is a hydrating and soothing K-beauty toner that works wonders for stressed skin. Packed with ectoin, panthenol, sunflower seed oil, and hyaluronic acid, this fragrance-free formula calms inflammation, replenishes moisture, and helps reinforce the skin barrier. Its lightweight, lotion-like texture absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft and prepped for the rest of your routine. Not to mention, it’s also one of those holy grail products for achieving the signature Korean beauty glass-like glow.

Tester feedback: Former Allure editor Devon Abelman says that this toner is so thick and effective for reinforcing moisture that she often doesn’t need to moisturise on summer days. Instead, she goes straight to SPF after applying vitamin C serum in the morning.