Hyaluronic acid, often referred to as a must-have in skincare, is prized for hydrating and creating a youthful-looking face. It’s everywhere in serums, creams, even in injectable treatments, but there’s much misinformation floating around about how it works and what it can do to its users. This definitive guide will explore what hyaluronic acid is, why it matters, how to use it effectively, and dispel some of the most stubborn myths surrounding this skincare superstar.
Hyaluronic Acid: A Must-Have
Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in humans, aims to maintain the structure of tissues – especially in human skin, eyes, and connective tissues. It has a hydration, elasticity function because it has the ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, thereby leaving skin plump and joints well lubricated. The body’s HA production decreases with age as well as through environmental assaults such as UV exposure or pollution. This is what shows the need for supplementing HA through topical products or treatments.
Hyaluronic
Hyaluronic acid is not just limited to skincare products; it has other primary applications.
1. Skincare Products
- Moisturizers: HA formulated products for intense hydration and skin texture improvement.
- Serums: HA serums are lightweight, highly concentrated, and inject a hydration boost directly into the skin.
- Sheet Masks: HA-infused sheet masks for an on-the-go refreshing dose of moisture.
2. Injectable Treatments
Dermal fillers that contain HA, such as lip enhancements or wrinkle reduction, add volume to targeted areas of the face. These treatments are temporary because HA breaks down with time; however, they provide instantaneous results.
3. Medical Applications
Injections for joints: HA is used to alleviate pain and enhance joint mobility in people suffering from osteoarthritis by reducing friction within the joints.Eye Care: HA-based products are used in eye drops to restore comfort and cure dry eyes.
4. Wound Healing
Hyaluronic acid promotes healing of tissues, reducing inflammation, thus being applied in wound dressings and scar treatments.
Actions of Hyaluronic Acid
The benefits of HA are not anecdotal-they are scientifically proven. This is what makes it unique:
1. Powerful Hydration
Hydrolytic acid functions as a moisture magnet by attracting water to the skin and holding it there for optimal hydration. Hydration levels are maintained. The skin looks smoother and softer, too, with a supplier complexion.
2. Anti-Aging Properties
Fine lines and wrinkles are also diminished as HA plumps up the skin from the inside out, giving a youngish appearance.
3. Building up of the Natural Barrier of the Skin
HA reinforces the skin’s natural barrier against environmental aggressors and minimizes sensitivity.
4. Healing and Soothing
Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated skin and promote healing for minor wounds or blemishes.
Busting the Common Hyaluronic Acid Myths
Even though its popularity cannot be denied, hyaluronic acid has still surrounded with many myths. Let’s separate fact from fiction:
MYTH #1: Hyaluronic acid is an exfoliate.
Fact: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Unlike alpha hydroxyl acids and beta hydroxyl acids, it does not exfoliate or remove dead skin cells.
MYTH #2: Hyaluronic acid is a synonym for sodium hyaluronate.
Fact: Sodium hyaluronate is actually the salt derivative of the same acid, but is of smaller molecular weight, allowing it to get layers deeper into the skin and offering more sustaining hydration. There are two forms of the ingredients, and many products combine the two for layered effects.
MYTH #3: We have the same amount of hyaluronic acid in our bodies over time.
Fact: Our bodies’ natural HA production declines with age. This decline begins in our 20s and gradually accelerates, leaving our skin drier and less elastic. We need external application or supplementation for miniaturization and volume.
MYTH #4: Hyaluronic acid needs to be applied to dry skin.
Fact: For maximum results, HA should be applied to damp skin. This way, it sucks up moisture from the water on your skin’s surface and won’t attempt to suck it out from inner layers and cause dehydration.
MYTH #5: All hyaluronic acid is the same.
Fact: How good HA is depends on its molecular weight.
- High-molecular-weight HA: Stays on the skin’s surface where it promptly starts hydrating and plumping.
- Low molecular weight HA: Soaks deeper into the skin for longer-lasting hydration
MYTH #6: As a vegan, you can’t use hyaluronic acid.
Fact: Although some of the original HA was extracted from animals, most commercial products are now derived from plants or manufactured in the lab, so they
MYTH #7: Hyaluronic acid only benefits people with dry skin.
Fact: HA benefits all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. By balancing hydration levels, it can reduce excess oil production and prevent clogged pores.
Final Thoughts
It’s more than just a skincare trend – hyaluronic acid is scientifically proven, promising a ton of benefits. Be it hydration, reducing signs of aging, or protecting the barrier function of the skin, HA is a versatile addition to any skincare routine. However, all HA is not created equal. For ultimate benefits:
- Choose products with multiple molecular weights for layered hydration.
- Use HA on damp skin and lock it with a rich moisturizer.
- Maintain the consistent application of HA in your daily routine.
Debunking the myths and unleashing its totality, you can get to apply hyaluronic acid to possess healthy and brighter skin.
FAQs (frequently-asked questions)
Yes, hyaluronic acid is gentle enough to use every single day and can be applied both in the morning and in the night.
Absolutely. HA is non-irritating and well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
Yes, HA is generally compatible with most active ingredients, such as vitamin C, niacin amide, and retinol.
No, it is fluid and simple to spread, allowing for proper hydration without leaving any greasy or heavy residue, making it acceptable even for those with oily skin types.
Apply it to slightly damp skin immediately after cleansing. Follow with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration and prevent water loss.
