Formulated to smooth and plump, this moisture retention hero is a staple in many skincare routines.
But what is hyaluronic acid, and why is it so popular?
In this guide, we’ll break down its benefits and provide expert advice on how to add it to your routine to get the best results.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid in Skincare?
Naturally occurring throughout the body, hyaluronic acid (HA) can be found in your skin and connective tissue. This active ingredient is best known for its ability to promote a supple, dewy appearance.
However, as we age, natural production declines, often resulting in reduced elasticity.
To help counteract this, topical hyaluronic acid is widely used in skincare products, where it functions as a powerful humectant, drawing in and retaining moisture.
But the name "hyaluronic acid" can be a source of confusion for those new to skincare, as the term "acid" may bring to mind harsh exfoliants.
However, as Dr. Christian Jurist, the Medical Director of Global Education for Pevonia International, points out, this is a common misunderstanding.
"Hyaluronic acid can be misleading to newcomers in the skincare and beauty industry.” explains Dr. Jurist, “'Acid’ implies an exfoliating ingredient and often confuses people, when it is very gentle and soothing. It is a humectant that is ideal for dehydrated, dry, devitalized skin or to help prevent it. Imagine your skin is a sponge – when it’s dry, it’s stiff and rough. Hyaluronic acid helps it soak up moisture, making the skin soft, bouncy, and smooth again.”
As Dr. Jurist clarifies, HA is exceptionally gentle and beneficial for adding moisture.
From creamy cleansers to lightweight serums and rich creams, it’s available in a variety of formulas to suit dry, oily, and combination skin types, allowing you to choose the texture and concentration that best fits your needs.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid Good For?
If you’re wondering what is hyaluronic acid used for, we’ve broken down the key benefits of this powerhouse ingredient.
Moisturizes
With its moisturizing properties, hyaluronic acid works to support the skin barrier.
As skincare expert Dr. Jurist states, its function goes deeper as hyaluronic acid “works to improve and maintain moisture to aid in improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines, and supporting the skin barrier, which in turn makes the skin function better and helps to protect it against aging.”
The result? a dewy, glass-like finish and a noticeably softer, more comfortable complexion.
Supports Suppleness
By maintaining the skin’s suppleness, hyaluronic acid helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, which often become more visible when moisture is lacking.
As dryness may also affect elasticity, this active works to renew for a smoother, more youthful-looking appearance.
Smooths and Balances
Rejuvenating and enriching, hyaluronic acid could also help to refine texture and visibly balance areas of dryness.
Parched skin may appear flaky and scaly – this ingredient helps care for those patches by encouraging a moisturized, even-looking base.
How Can I Add Hyaluronic Acid to My Routine?
Hyaluronic acid is a versatile ingredient that features in a variety of products, making it easy to add into almost any skincare routine.
When used as a serum, apply it after cleansing, toning, or exfoliating, ideally while skin is slightly damp to support absorption.
If it’s included in your moisturizer, smooth it on before SPF in the morning, or as the final step to your evening ritual.
Suitable for both AM and PM routines, it also layers well with other well-known ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinol.
With its ability to visibly moisturize and smooth the complexion, this active is a must-have for achieving supple, healthy-looking skin.
Now that you know what hyaluronic acid is, start experiencing the benefits with our collection.
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