Due to its ability to hydrate, increase elasticity and firm the skin, Hyaluronic acid (HA) has recently gained popularity as an ingredient in cosmetics and beauty products. In this blog we will explore hyaluronic acid in more detail, how it works and different products that contain it. We will also go over the potential benefits and drawbacks of hyaluronic acid and how to use it effectively in your skin care routine. So, whether you’re into skincare or just want to see the latest trends in beauty, read on to learn more about this versatile product.
What is Hyaluronic Acid (HA)?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural substance in our bodies, located generally in our skin, eyes, and joints. It plays a crucial role in tissue restore, lubrication, and hydration.
Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan, a sugar and a protein molecule. Molecular interactions are an essential component of the extracellular matrix to provide shape and support for our tissues. In the pores and skin, hyaluronic acid enables preserve hydration and density by retaining water molecules in the skin.
As we age, our bodies produce much less hyaluronic acid, leading to dryness, low elasticity and wrinkles. That’s where skin care products containing hyaluronic acid come in. These products work by providing HA to the skin, wherein it can bind to water molecules, assisting to hydrate and plump the pores and skin.
There are many unique varieties of hyaluronic acid products available in the market today, inclusive of serums, lotions, and injectables. HA serums are commonly light-weight and absorb without difficulty into the skin, making them popular for everyday use. Creams and moisturisers containing HA as one of it’s ingredient provide long-lasting moisture and are appropriate for people with dry or mature pores and skin.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid:
Hyaluronic acid has many benefits for the skin. Here are some of the main benefits of using HA.
1. Improves skin hydration:
It is a powerful moisturiser that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. This means that it helps improve the hydration of the skin, leaving the skin smooth, supple and plump.
2. Reduces fine lines and wrinkles:
It helps plump skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, which can help prevent signs of aging in the future.
3. Strengthens the barrier function of the skin:
It helps to strengthen the natural barrier function of the skin, which is important for firm and supple skin. This can protect the skin from the elements environmental stresses and prevent water loss.
4. Soothes skin:
It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and acne. It helps to soothe and hydrate dry, sensitive skin.
5. Improves overall skin tone:
It helps to improve overall skin tone, making skin smoother and brighter. it can also help reduce dark circles and puffiness under the eyes.
Who can use Hyaluronic acid?
Generally, HA is safe for most people to use, regardless of skin type or age. It is especially beneficial for those with dry or mature skin, as it helps improve hydration and plumps up fine lines and wrinkles. But even those with oily skin or acne-prone skin can benefit from using it, as it is non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores) and helps prevent oil production.
That being said, if you have any underlying skin conditions or allergies, it is always a good idea to consult a dermatologist before adding additional skin care products to your routine.
Popular products with Hyaluronic acid:
Hyaluronic acid has become a popular ingredient in skin care and beauty products due to its hydrating and anti-aging benefits. Here are some popular products that contain HA as it’s ingredient:
- Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: This affordable serum contains low, medium and high density HA for deep hydration.
Image source: Nykaa - Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel: This lightweight, oil-free moisturiser contains HA and glycerin for long-lasting hydration.
Image source: Nykaa - Kiehl’s Vital Skin-Strengthening Hyaluronic Acid Super Serum: This serum combines HA and proprietary blend of adaptogens to hydrate, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Image source: Nykaa - Innisfree Hyaluronic acid Green Tea Seed Serum: This popular Korean skincare serum contains green tea seed oil and HA to deeply hydrate and nourish the skin.
Image source: Nykaa - L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Serum: This serum is enriched with 1.5% pure HA to hydrate the skin, reduce pores and improve skin texture.
Image source: Nykaa -
Minimalist 2% Hyaluronic Acid + PGA Face Serum: This face serum contains 2% of HA with Vitamin B5 as well as multi-molecular 2% sodium hyaluronate (a salt of HA) which provides multi-level hydration.
Image source: Nykaa - Juvederm and Restylane Dermal Fillers: These injectable treatments contain HA and are used to enhance and fill out specific areas of the face such as the cheeks, lips and under eye areas.
These are just a few examples of products that contain hyaluronic acid.
When and How to use hyaluronic acid?
HA can be used in different ways, depending on the product and your individual needs. Here are some tips on when and how to use hyaluronic acid:
- Use it in your daily skin care routine: It can be incorporated into your daily skin care routine in the form of a serum, moisturiser or face mask. Use it after cleansing and toning, but before heavy creams or oils.
- Apply to damp skin: For best results, apply HA to damp skin. This will help lock in moisture and enhance the hydrating effects.
- Use it in combination with other hydrating ingredients: HA works well in combination with other hydrating ingredients, such as glycerin and ceramide.
- Use it before applying makeup: HA can help plump the skin and create a smooth, even surface for applying makeup. Use it before primer for best results.
- Use it as an injection for specific problems: If you have certain concerns, such as deep wrinkles or loss of volume in the face, you may want to consider using hyaluronic acid in the form of dermal fillers. These are injectable treatments that can add volume and fullness to certain areas of the face.
Drawbacks of Hyaluronic Acid:
Although hyaluronic acid is generally considered safe, but there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind:
- Sometimes, HA can cause skin irritation or allergies, especially if your skin is sensitive. If you feel any skin irritation immediately stop using the product.
- When you live in a dry environment, it can pull moisture out of your skin, causing further dryness.
- In some cases, when you use HA as derma fillers it can cause abrasions, skin damage, irritation and infection or dryness.
Conclusion:
Overall, Hyaluronic acid is a very effective and versatile ingredient that can help with many skin types and concerns. Whether applied topically or injected, HA has the ability to deeply hydrate the skin, improve its texture and tone, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you want to improve the overall health and appearance of your skin, adding hyaluronic acid to your skincare routine may be worth considering. It, is always advisable to consult with a dermatologist before starting any skincare routine or treatment because
“Your skin is your best accessory. Take good care of it.”
FAQs:
Q: Can sensitive skin people use hyaluronic acid (HA)?
A: Yes, HA is non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores, which makes it a great option for those with sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin. In fact, because it helps to hydrate the skin without adding extra oil, it can actually help to balance oily skin.
Q: How many times should I use HA in a day?
A: Generally, it can be used two times in a day, as part of your AM and PM skin care routine. However, it is always good to see the instructions mentioned by the product manufacturer.
Q: Can I pair HA with other serums?
A: Yes, it can be used with other active ingredients like vitamin C, Niacinamide and retinol, but it is necessary to use them in the correct order. Apply hyaluronic acid first, followed by any other products.
Q: Is HA safe for pregnant or breastfeeding lady?
A: There is limited research on the usage of HA during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare professional before using any skincare products during this period.
Very nice information
Very useful information