Zinc Hydra Gel

Hyaluronic Acid
A moisture-binding molecule naturally present in healthy skin, hyaluronic acid can hold up to a thousand times its weight in water. In a gel formula without oils, it delivers pure, weightless hydration that oily and combination skin can absorb without any sense of congestion or residue. Sodium hyaluronate, the form used here, penetrates efficiently into the upper layers of the dermis, plumping and smoothing from within. The result is the hydrated, dewy appearance that oily skin often paradoxically lacks — because oiliness and dehydration are not the same thing, and this formula addresses both simultaneously.

Zinc PCA
Zinc PCA is a compound formed from zinc and pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, one of the skin's own natural moisturising factors. It occupies a unique position in skincare as an ingredient that both hydrates and regulates — it restores the skin's moisture retention capacity while simultaneously inhibiting the 5-alpha reductase enzyme responsible for excess sebum production. For skin that produces oil as a compensatory response to dehydration, this dual action addresses the root cause rather than simply absorbing surface shine. With consistent use, the skin's oil production naturally normalises.

Betaine
Derived from sugar beet, betaine is one of nature's most effective osmolytes — compounds that help cells maintain their internal water balance under conditions of stress. Applied topically, it acts as a powerful humectant while simultaneously calming the inflammatory response that makes oily and sensitive skin react to environmental triggers. Its exceptionally low irritation profile makes it ideal for skin that is both congested and reactive, a common combination that harsher hydrating ingredients can aggravate. The texture of this gel owes much of its silky, cushioned feel to betaine's unique film-forming properties.

Watercress Extract
Organically grown Nasturtium Officinale is one of the most nutrient-dense plants in European botanical tradition, and its topical application brings the same density of vitamins C, E, and K alongside glucosinolates directly to the skin's surface. For oily skin that is chronically exposed to urban pollution and oxidative stress, the antioxidant protection watercress provides is particularly valuable — it neutralises the free radical damage that enlarges pores and accelerates surface skin ageing without adding any heaviness to the formula.

Apply a small amount to clean skin morning and evening. The gel texture spreads easily, a little goes a long way. Press gently into the face and neck and allow to absorb fully before applying SPF in the morning. Ideal as a standalone moisturiser for oily skin or as a lightweight base layer under a richer cream for combination skin. Can also be mixed with a few drops of ÆTHEL Bakuchiol Oil Serum for a customised hydration balance.

Active ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Zinc PCA, Betaine, Aloe Vera Juice, Watercress Extract

Full INCI: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice➀, Glycerin➁, Pentylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Betaine, Sclerotium Gum, Zinc PCA, Aqua, Propanediol, Parfum, Nasturtium Officinale (Watercress) Flower/Leaf Extract➀, Sodium Phytate, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Rhamnose, Glucose, Glucuronic Acid, Limonene➂, Linalool➂, Geraniol➂, Citral➂

➀ Ingredients from organic farming · ➁ Made using organic ingredients · ➂ From natural essential oils

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