Hyaluronic acid: what it is, how it affects your skin and the products worth adding into your routine
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One of the most commonly used skincare ingredients, hyaluronic acid is something everybody can benefit from incorporating into their routine. Here’s what you need to know.
There’s no doubt about the efficacy of hyaluronic acid. Hailed as a skincare hero by experts and dermatologists alike, it’s a humectant (meaning it helps reduce the loss of moisture) that can hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water.
A naturally-occurring substance, hyaluronic acid works to help retain the much-needed moisture that both skin and joints need. But as we get older, our levels tend to deplete – leading to dullness and loss of elasticity, along with fine lines and wrinkles.
Found in a whole host of products, its primary function is restoring and retaining moisture and is suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive, acne-prone skin. But despite being a miracle worker, it’s important to note that hyaluronic acid could end up drying out your skin if you’re not careful.
Here’s the lowdown on what hyaluronic acid is and the most effective ways to use it…
What is hyaluronic acid and how does it work?
As Dr Sam Bunting, founder of skincare brand Dr Sam’s, explains: “It’s a water-holding gel with the ability to hold 1,000 times its own weight in moisture. When it’s applied topically, skin acts as a highly effective barrier and those hyaluronic acid molecules are too big to squeeze through the dermis (the layer of skin beneath the epidermis), which is where it needs to be to help plump lines and wrinkles.”
So instead, the hyaluronic acid sits on the skin’s surface and acts as a moisturiser through its humectant properties. “That means it draws water into skin to keep it hydrated, supple and makes sure it keeps functioning effectively as a barrier,” says Dr Bunting.
Can hyaluronic acid dry skin out?
If you’re applying hyaluronic acid to a very dry face, it can actually end up drawing moisture from the deeper levels of your skin. This in turn will do more harm than good and leave your complexion feeling tight and uncomfortable.
It’s a problem that usually occurs when humidity levels are extremely low – meaning there’s a lack of moisture in the air.
What’s the best way to use hyaluronic acid?
To counteract that issue, Sonia Deasy, founder of skincare brand Pestle & Mortar, recommends layering hyaluronic acid serum underneath a moisturiser. “It helps seal it into your skin and provides a barrier against moisture loss,” she explains.
Deasy also advises applying serum to damp – not completely dry – skin for better results.
The best hyaluronic acid serums
Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid
For that plump, juicy glow – this triple weight hyaluronic acid serum is perfect. It locks in moisture from within, giving your skin a noticeable radiance and bounce after just a couple of uses.
Shop Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid, £40 (£24 for members)
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
This serum delivers intense, long-lasting moisture to thirsty cells, visibly plumping and smoothing the skin.
Shop The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 at Lookfantastic, £8.80
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum
Thanks to vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid, La Roche-Posay’s gel-serum restores suppleness and elasticity. It repairs the skin’s barrier so moisture is kept on lockdown for longer.
Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum
This multitasking concentrate targets fine lines, dullness and dehydration. The formula is lightweight, not sticky, and can double up as a make-up primer for a velvety smooth base.
Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Serum
Combining skin-softening vitamin B5 with hyaluronic acid, this hydrates, soothes and reduces inflammation. Bye-bye, redness.
Niod Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Complex
This serum mixes a blend of 15 forms of hyaluronic compounds to make the skin’s surface pillowy and bouncy. It also supports water retention and banishes tightness.
Shop Niod Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Complex at Cult Beauty, £30
SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier Serum
It might be pricey, but if you can afford the splurge then this lightweight serum really works. It’s enriched with 10% Proxylane (a patented molecule) and botanical extracts to deliver long-lasting hydration, while also toning and tightening to promote a smoother, more refined complexion.
Shop SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier Serum at Lookfantastic, £120
Main image: Getty
