What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid may sound complex, but it has an impressive ability to retain moisture, holding up to a thousand times its weight in water. Naturally present in our bodies, it is concentrated in our eyes, joints, and connective tissues, and is responsible for keeping our skin soft and supple.
In skincare, hyaluronic acid is derived from natural sources, such as rooster combs, or produced through bio-fermentation. This ingredient is commonly found in skincare, makeup formulations, and more recently in hair care products. When applied topically, hyaluronic acid excels at attracting and retaining moisture in the skin, promoting smoother and hydrated skin.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
- Moisturiser Extraordinaire: Maintaining your skin's natural moisture balance is essential for all skin types, and hyaluronic acid is a master at this. It keeps your skin well-hydrated, supple, and dewy while enhancing elasticity. If you have dry skin, hyaluronic acid can combat dehydration by binding moisture to skin cells.
- Skin Soother: For those with dry and acne-prone skin, hyaluronic acid plays a crucial role in the healing process. It calms inflammation, accelerates skin recovery, and keeps the skin firm and well-hydrated.
- Skin Elasticity Booster: As we age, our natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases, leading to faster moisture loss, decreased skin volume, and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Topical application of hyaluronic acid helps improve skin elasticity, reduces wrinkle depth, enhances firmness, and maintains a youthful appearance.
- Barrier Guardian: If your skin feels irritated when using skincare products, it may indicate a compromised skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid is a simple and nourishing ingredient that fortifies your skin. As a natural component of the skin, it forms a protective barrier against environmental stressors and pollutants, minimizing the risk of premature ageing.
How to Incorporate Hyaluronic Acid into Your Skincare Routine?
No matter your skincare routine, hyaluronic acid can easily find its place. It complements most other skincare actives and suits various skin types.
- For dry skin: Choose a hyaluronic acid serum that provides deep hydration, not only on the surface but also at deeper layers. Make sure you seal it with a dense moisturiser.
- For oily skin: Opt for a gel-based hyaluronic acid moisturizer to effectively hydrate and reduce excessive sebum production.
- For sensitive skin: Select serums with 2% or lower concentration of hyaluronic acid, and ensure they are fragrance-free and mineral-free to avoid irritation.
To effectively use hyaluronic acid, follow these steps:
- Cleanse: Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities. Consider using a cream-based cleanser with hyaluronic acid if you have dehydrated skin.
- Treat: Apply a few drops of hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin, focusing on areas needing extra hydration or with fine lines and wrinkles. Gently pat the serum to aid absorption. Hyaluronic acid works best when applied to damp skin.
3. Moisturise: Hyaluronic acid makes for a solid moisturiser as it not only moisturises your skin’s surface but also benefits your skin barrier. Pick a hyaluronic acid-based moisturiser to seal in the hydration and make sure you’re consistent with it.
FAQs
1. Is hyaluronic acid safe for daily use?
A. Yes, hyaluronic acid is a safe and beneficial addition to your daily skincare routine.
2. Is hyaluronic acid the same as sodium hyaluronate?
A. Different skincare products may use various forms of hyaluronic acid, with sodium hyaluronate being the most common. Sodium hyaluronate has a lower molecular weight, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin and replenish it effectively.
3. Can hyaluronic acid harm my skin?
A. When used correctly, hyaluronic acid is one of the safest and most effective skin-nourishing ingredients for maintaining skin health.