In short, hyaluronic acid is the all-star of top-tier skincare routines. It retains moisture, fights signs of aging, and can be found in a number of products. Let’s talk basics.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Scientifically speaking, hyaluronic acid is a group of sugar molecules that cushion and lubricate joints and other tissues. As we age, the amount of hyaluronic acid our body stores begins to decline. However, when added to topical products, it can contribute to depleted supplies.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
There are several benefits of skincare products that contain hyaluronic acid, including:
- Hydration: Hyaluronic acid has an incredible ability to help skin retain moisture. Not only does hydrated skin look amazing (as opposed to dry and flaky skin), but it creates a perfectly intact skin barrier. This means you are less at risk of acne or atopic dermatitis.
- Flexibility: Hyaluronic acid helps your skin stretch and flex, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Are There Any Side Effects?
You may be nervous about trying a new skincare product. Luckily, hyaluronic acid is natural to our skin, which means most people don’t see any adverse reactions when it is applied topically. If an allergic reaction, redness, or itching does occur, it may be that you are reacting to other ingredients in the formula. When injected as a dermal filler, hyaluronic acid may cause temporary bruising, soreness, swelling, or bumps.
Hyaluronic Acid 101
You’ll find hyaluronic acid in many types of skincare products, including serums, face masks, eye creams, moisturizers, cleansers, and lip treatments. Here are a few tips for purchasing products that contain hyaluronic acid:
- Steer clear of products that contain ingredients that have irritated your skin in the past. The addition of hyaluronic acid won’t cancel out the irritant.
- Look for products that list vitamin C as an ingredient because it boosts the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid.
- Avoid products that contain alcohol because it can counteract hyaluronic acid’s excellent moisturizing benefits.
- Water is good for hyaluronic acid, so if this is the first ingredient listed, don’t think that the product is a waste of money. In fact, water is another ingredient that makes hyaluronic acid even more effective.