What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the body. It’s a type of polysaccharide, which is a long chain of sugar molecules. Hyaluronic acid is found on the skin, joints, and eyes and approximately 50% resides in both the epidermis and dermis. Hyaluronic acid can be taken through dietary supplements, eye drops, or most traditionally topically. As we age, our bodies produce less hyaluronic acid (just like collagen and elastin). Incorporating this ingredient in your skincare routine and diet is essential to improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dehydration, inflammation, and UV damage.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Your Skin

If you’re a skincare connoisseur, you’ve definitely heard that including this ingredient into your routine is crucial to a good skincare regimen. This super-hydrator and humectant holds 1000 times its weight in water and supports supple, dewy skin. This humectant draws and retains skin hydration for maximum moisture benefits. But did you know that there are different types of hyaluronic acid? The molecular weight of hyaluronic acid (HA) refers to the size of the molecules. Smaller molecules are able to penetrate deeper into the skin, while larger molecules stay on the surface of the skin. In general, lower molecular weight HA is more effective at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles than higher molecular weight HA. However, higher molecular weight HA can be more effective at protecting the skin from natural elements.

Promotes Wound Healing

Hyaluronic acid can help wounds heal faster by regulating inflammation, promoting blood vessel growth, and reducing infection. It is also effective at treating gum disease and mouth ulcers.

Prevents Dry Eye

Hyaluronic acid eye drops and contact lenses have been shown to be effective in reducing dry eye symptoms and improving eye health and is often used during eye surgery to treat wounds and inflammation.

Improves Hydration

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant, which means that it attracts and retains water. When applied to the skin, hyaluronic acid can help to plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Improves Lipid Barrier

The skin's lipid barrier is a thin layer of oil that helps to protect the skin from the elements. When this barrier is damaged, it can lead to dry skin, eczema, and other skin problems. Hyaluronic acid can help to improve the skin's lipid barrier by attracting and retaining water. This helps to keep the skin hydrated and protected.

Improves Skin Resilience

Polluted air contains small nanoparticles that can damage the skin and cause premature aging. This includes UV exposure, which can be harmful to skin without the use of SPF. HA acts as a barrier against pollutants while repairing damaged skin cells.

Tightens and Smooths Skin

The skin around the eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. This is because the skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than other areas of the face. Using serums and moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid can help to keep the skin around the eyes hydrated and plump, tightening the overall complexion.

Anti-Aging Wrinkle Removal

When applied to the skin, hyaluronic acid attracts water molecules and holds them in place, which helps to plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Revitalizes Skin Cells

Hyaluronic acid can also help to revitalize skin cells. When applied to the skin, hyaluronic acid can help to increase the production of new skin cells. This can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin and reduce the appearance of age spots and pigmentation.

Prevents Age Spots and Pigmentation

Age spots and pigmentation are caused by the overproduction of melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin its color. Hyaluronic acid can help to prevent age spots and pigmentation by reducing the overproduction of melanin.

Natural Humectant

Hydrating ingredients, also known as humectants, are crucial to a proper skincare routine. Followed by moisturizing ingredients, also known as emollients. These two make for the most ideal routine and are necessary for all skin types.

Hyaluronic Acid for Skin

Hyaluronic acid is an effective way to improve the appearance of the skin. It can be taken orally as a supplement or applied topically in the form of a serum or cream. Some dermatologists even inject hyaluronic acid fillers to keep skin looking firm and youthful. They can also be used to add volume to the lips and cheeks.

Is Hyaluronic Acid Safe?

Hyaluronic acid is generally safe for most people, but there are some additional things to keep in mind about hyaluronic acid:

• Hyaluronic acid can interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to your doctor if you are taking any medications.
• Hyaluronic acid can cause some side effects, such as redness, swelling, and itching. If you experience any side effects, stop using the product and talk to your doctor.
  
  

Hyaluronic Acid vs Pregnancy

The use of hyaluronic acid is considered safe during pregnancy and is a great alternative to active ingredients and fillers to maintain firm, plump, skin. 

More Products That Contain Hyaluronic Acid That We Recommend

Hydra+ Deep Hydration Serum Not-your-average hyaluronic acid serum. This collagen serum features Antarcticine®, collagen, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, trehalose, vitamin E, and trace minerals. Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid is a form of H.A. broken down into smaller molecules, providing superior hydration and anti-aging benefits than regular HA.

 

Hydra+ Deep Hydration Face Mask This sheet mask is an instant facial with a soothing burst of hydration like you’ve never experienced before. With skin-caring ingredients like Antarcticine®, collagen, sodum hyaluronate (LMW), jellyfish extract, pearl extract, and copper peptides (GHK-CU).