Hyaluronic acid hardly needs an introduction as it is one of the most marketed actives in the cosmetic industry.
It is found naturally in the body and keeps our skin soft and supple, moisturised and plump. Like with collagen, as we age, our bodies produce less hyaluronic acid which can lead to the appearance of aging skin. Hyaluronic acid is therefore a really popular ingredient to add to any skincare product as it has anti aging benefits.Few ingredients are as powerful as hyaluronic acid (HA) when it comes to achieving plump, hydrated, and youthful-looking skin.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Despite its name, hyaluronic acid is not an exfoliating acid but rather a moisture-binding molecule. This natural glycosaminoglycan is a true multi-tasker, offering intense moisturisation, anti-aging benefits, and soothing properties. Also known as hyaluronan, HA plays a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration, lubrication, and elasticity.
HA occurs naturally in the human body, with the highest concentrations found in the skin, joints, and eyes. Hyaluronic acid uniquely attracts and retains more than 1,000 times its weight in water molecules making it extremely beneficial for skin hydration and anti-aging.This is good news for those who struggle with dry, dehydrated, or aging skin and are looking for some much-neede hydration.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-aging
As we age, our natural levels of hyaluronic acid deplete over time, leading to dryness, loss of firmness, and the development of lines and wrinkles. Replenishing the skin's supply of HA through topical application can help counteract visible signs of aging by:
- Intense hydration: It works as a humectant, drawing moisture from the environment deep into the skin, and improving elasticity and firmness. It also acts as a barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss.
- Plumps and smooths: By retaining moisture within the skin, HA helps to plump up the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This gives the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance.
- Soothing and calming: It has wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce skin irritations and conditions like eczema and rosacea.
- Compatible with all skin types: Hyaluronic acid is generally well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- Boosts efficacy of other ingredients
Usage
Hyaluronic acid doesn’t have a specific usage rate, but you will want to use it at specific amounts depending on your formulation and product.
You can use hyaluronic acid directly on the skin too. I highly recommend applying it to wet skin, and then spritzing with water or hydrosol as it dries, to allow it to carry maximum hydration into your skin.
Here's how it works
Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds water in order to hydrate the skin. By increasing the water content in skin, hyaluronic acid can also smooth out fine lines and wrinkles to give the appearance of plumper, firmer, and more even skin.
How long it takes to see results
About eight weeks, though this will by person
When to use it
The best time to use hyaluronic acid is after your shower! This is when your skin is most receptive to moisture absorption, so your serum could be more effective. After washing your face, apply your skin care products from thinnest to thickest.
Is it safe to use HA on a daily basis?
Yes, in fact, you can use hyaluronic acid in both your morning and evening skin care routines. It's pretty gentle, so as long as you are not using multiple sources of HA in the same regimen, it is unlikely to cause irritation from daily use.