Image by Dina Broadhurst.
‘What is hyaluronic acid?’ is the skincare question of our age.
Whoever said, ‘It is possible to have too much of a good thing’ didn’t know about this crucial active and its benefits. Nowadays, using hyaluronic for face self-care is most definitely the new black.
Why so popular? Hyaluronic acid is on myriad serums, moisturisers, and treatment masks for good reason. Not only is it native to the skin (more approachable than other actives), but its buzz-worthy benefits are effective in all complexions.
With celebrity facialists like Kim Kardashian’s Dr Barbara Sturm singing its praises, this ingredient deserves its place in your daily rituals. Shall we explore how hyaluronic works?
How hyaluronic works on skin— the benefits.
First, what is hyaluronic acid? It’s a fluid particle that has the function of a humectant: attracting and holding water, securing key hydration levels in tissues like joints, eyes, and (of course) skin. It’s naturally made by the body but, with ageing and environmental stress,
As Sydney expert Isabella Loneragan (The Dermal Diaries) told Vogue, hyaluronic behaves like a “super sponge that can absorb and hold up to a thousand times its weight in water.” This has the effect of plumping the skin, smoothing out damage and lines, and restoring an enviable dewy complexion.
And because the body naturally produces it, how hyaluronic works on skin has an advantage over other moisturising actives: your skin already knows how to use it. This means it’s friendly, effective, and versatile, with little to no chance of drawbacks.
Disclaimer: if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history with cancer (or other diseases), it’s best to ring up your doctor before indulging.
Hyaluronic for face skincare— is it for you?
The answer to ‘how do you use hyaluronic for skincare?’ is up to you. It’s adaptable enough to be included in any morning or evening routine.
So what is hyaluronic acid good for?
- Hyaluronic for dry skin— If you have dry skin, hyaluronic acid is a must. Why? Its natural properties help your cells retain more water, making a previously dull complexion glow. It reduces flakiness, redness, and dermatitis and helps your skin deal with environmental stressors (like pollution and UV).
- Hyaluronic for acne— Hyaluronic for oily skin that’s prone to acne is a great choice. Why? It improves wound healing speed, minimising the risk of infection. Hyaluronic acid restores the skin’s moisture barrier: this keeps external nasties from getting in and causing breakouts. It also regulates inflammation and boasts antibacterial properties that fight the root causes of acne.Will hyaluronic clog pores? No, it’s non-comedogenic. But make sure to check for other ingredients and fillers in your serum or moisturiser of choice.
- Hyaluronic for ageing skin— Ageing skin is skin that produces less natural hyaluronic acid, which causes it to become rough, lined, and uneven. This active delivers effective hydration to create plumper skin, smooth over fine lines, and reduce the impact of UV-ageing. Besides, it tells the body to build more blood vessels to send oxygen and nutrients to the dermis.Will hyaluronic help with wrinkles? Yes: hydrated and nourished cells translate into skin with more youth-creating collagen and elastin, which bounces back from stress more effectively. That’s the reason hyaluronic also works as ageing prevention.
Hyaluronic acid can be used as the moisturiser or serum step of your daily routine— check your product’s specifications. And if you’re living in a dry climate, it’s best to apply a layer of a different moisturiser over your hyaluronic product to avoid pulling moisture out of your skin.
Where can I get hyaluronic acid?
If you’ve been wondering, ‘what hyaluronic should I use?’, wait no longer. Here are the hyaluronic acid products our team’s fallen in love with:
1. Societe’s Skin HYDRATION Complex.
Which is the most effective hyaluronic acid serum for dry skin? We might vote for Skin Hydration Complex. Formulated with Vitamin C and nourishing peptides, this hyaluronic-based serum is great for stressed, lined, and ageing skins. It’s also super refreshing.
2. Organic Nations’ Hydration Rescue Gel.
This is our reply to, ‘what hyaluronic is best for skin that’s damaged and needs a reboot?’. As it pairs the efficient hyaluronic with aloe and soothing botanicals (calendula and comfrey), it provides both hydration and reparation to counteract environmental factors like pollution or too much UV.
3. Aspect’s Hydrating Serum.
It’s tough to choose which hyaluronic serum is best, but this might just be the final contender. Called by some the ‘miracle beauty serum,’ it’s made up of two types of hyaluronic acid for deeper action. Also containing smoothing panthenol and restorative nicotinamides, this hyaluronic serum both remedies and protects.
4. Aspect’s Hydrating Mask.
If you’re thinking ‘what hyaluronic should I use if my sensitive skin just needs some extra love?’, this mask is for you. Ideal for your nightly self-care ritual, this super-hydration treatment is infused with nutritious oils (like shea butter) and antioxidants to aid detoxification.
Still wondering which hyaluronic is best for skin like yours? Keep in mind what is hyaluronic acid and head over to our skin types guide or browse to your heart’s content.
Happy hydration!