The trending skincare ingredients to have on your radar in 2026
From hydrating beta-glucan to strengthening ectoin, ignite your skincare routine with these up-and-coming actives
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Skincare trends are constantly evolving. From progressive treatments and cutting-edge technologies, to advanced products that promise longevity and regeneration, the desire to make smarter choices for healthier, more resilient skin is fierce. Naturally, then, skincare ingredients – the actives in our serums, oils and cleansers that provide their benefits – will be a big priority this year.
Rina Teslica, beauty expert at Cult Beauty says: “2026 is shaping up to be the year of smarter skincare with more innovative, skin-boosting ingredients being a core focus. There will be a shift from searching for ‘anti-ageing’ products to wanting to improve long-term skin health with smarter delivery systems.”
Gina Baker, skincare expert at Germaine de Capuccini adds: “One of the most exciting developments I’m seeing right now is how deeply ingredient innovation is moving into skin health, longevity and regeneration. Consumers are no longer just looking for quick fixes – they want products that truly improve the way their skin functions over time.”
While the basics are here to stay – think the likes of SPF, vitamin C and retinol – there are a plethora of emerging ingredients set to dominate the skincare landscape this year, each with a unique set of benefits. We’ve got the lowdown on the standout skincare ingredients to pay attention to this year, and our favourite products you can find them in.
Exosomes
Insight from Cult Beauty shows searches for ‘what are exosomes’ has increased by 81 per cent over the last three months. Tiny cellular messengers that carry proteins and lipids and communicate with other cells, when used in skincare, exosomes “support skin regeneration, repair and elevate cell function,” explains Teslica. Most commonly found in serums, this powerful ingredient will improve texture and tone, for visibly firmer, smoother and more radiant skin. “We’re moving into an era of preventative, regenerative skincare, and exosomes are leading the way,” Baker adds.
Ectoin
Ectoin is a natural amino acid found in microorganisms that survive and thrive in extreme environments. With powerful protective properties, it makes for a fantastic skincare ingredient, so it’s no surprise that searches for ‘ectoin skincare’ are up by 86 per cent in recent months. Acting as a moisture-locking agent, Teslica explains it can “help strengthen the skin barrier, hydrate and protect against environmental aggressors.”
Beta-glucan
According to Cult Beauty, searches for beta-glucan stand at a monthly average of 2,900, while ‘beta-glucan skincare’ is up by 181 per cent year-on-year. A complex sugar, also known as a polysaccharide, that can be found in natural sources such as oats, yeast and fungi, beta-glucan is now being used in skincare products to “boost hydration, enhance the skin’s natural repair processes and comfort inflamed complexions,” says Teslica. Ideal for skin that is stressed or uncomfortable, beta-glucan infused serums, creams and moisturisers will encourage a smoother, softer and calmer complexion.
NAD+
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, oxidised) is “quickly becoming one of the most talked-about ingredients in advanced skincare, and for good reason,” says Baker. “It plays a fundamental role in cellular energy and repair, which directly impacts collagen synthesis and overall skin vitality. Expect to see it featured in next-generation serums and professional treatment protocols.”
Prebiotics
Microbiome-friendly ingredients help support the body from the inside out. “Healthy skin starts with a healthy microbiome, and prebiotics are one of the fastest ways to achieve that,” says Baker. “These ingredients strengthen the skin barrier, improve hydration, calm sensitivity and make every other product in your routine work more effectively. We’re now seeing them appear not just in serums and creams, but in cleansers and exfoliators.”
PDRN
PDRN is a big hitter in Korean skincare, with searches for ‘PDRN skincare’ up by a mammoth 700 per cent in recent months, according to Cult Beauty. When used in skincare, PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) helps support tissue repair and cell regeneration. “It’s potent and powerful and known for improving skin healing, elasticity and overall skin health,” Teslica explains.
Sustainable botanical actives
High-performance natural ingredients, such as plant-derived extracts, are evolving rapidly and becoming key to modern skincare regimes. “These botanicals offer exceptional antioxidant, calming and anti-ageing benefits, often with better tolerability than traditional actives. They also align with the growing demand for sustainability and conscious beauty without sacrificing results,” says Baker. Whether it’s aloe vera, green tea extract or bakuchiol, these natural ingredients are gentle and effective alternatives to synthetic compounds.
Read more: The best collagen supplements for healthy skin and hair
