Our bodies are a complex web of interactive components to keep us healthy and active. One substance that our body naturally produces is hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid may also be called hyaluronan or hyaluronate, and it can be found throughout the body — including in the eyes, joints, and skin.
Like many naturally-occurring substances, hyaluronic acid can be isolated and used to maximize its primary functions as a hydration-boosting element in your skincare products. You may notice many products listed with this key ingredient because hyaluronic acid can help make skin more supple, increasing its flexibility and elasticity. But its beneficial properties extend beyond that.
What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, hyaluronic acid has a slippery quality that makes it ideal for lubricating joints and hydrating the skin and eyes.
This feature is thanks to hyaluronic acid's molecular composition. Shaped like a chain, it provides opportunities for other materials to latch on, including water.
How is Hyaluronic Acid Applied?
The versatility of hyaluronic acid means that it can be applied in multiple ways. You will find it in a variety of orally-ingested supplements. It can also be purchased in liquid form to mix into water for drinking. For those seeking relief from dry eyes, hyaluronic acid is commonly provided in eye drops.
As for its skin-enhancing properties, those are best received by going straight to the source. Many beauty products work by applying hyaluronic acid directly to the skin in the form of shampoos, gels, serums, and lotions, but it also helps to reduce the appearance of scarring and superficial markings due to acne, too.
When Should You Apply Hyaluronic Acid?
Topical applications of hyaluronic acid have proven to be very effective at providing a barrier that locks in skin's moisture. It's important, however, to think about your skin type and the molecular structure of the substance to get the maximum results. Remember, hyaluronic acid works by linking with moisture molecules. For those with dry skin or those who are in a dry climate, this means that hyaluronic acid best works when applied to damp skin. You may also maximize benefits by applying a moisturizer immediately afterward. This multi-step approach gives you the full benefit of hyaluronic acid's moisture-locking potential.
How Often Should You Use Hyaluronic Acid?
The great news about hyaluronic acid is that it's safe enough for daily use—if that's what best benefits your skin. Many weave the substance into their daily skincare routines, applying it nightly directly after cleansing. However, if you have oily skin, you may find this frequency unnecessary. Instead, the substance may best benefit you during times where your skin has been taxed by environmental conditions or other dermatological procedures (such as microneedling).
It's also worth noting that hyaluronic acid is useful in helping other skin treatments work effectively because of its bonding properties. Using it in conjunction with moisturizers and sunscreens or buying products where these substances are combined can help you maximize its beneficial impacts.
What Products Contain Hyaluronic Acid?
If you're looking to bring this powerful product into your skincare routine, you can check out these products:
- Growth Factor Restorative Serum- This daily use serum provides more youthful-looking skin and uses hyaluronic acid to create a hydrating barrier, helping to plump up and replenish visibly aging skin and restore skin elasticity.
- Hyaluronic Acid Hydration Serum- For instant hydration you can feel immediately, this serum is a great choice. It’s formulated with skin-plumping peptides and a proprietary Blue Copper Complex to help support a softer, smoother, and more radiant complexion.
- Age Restore Brightening Moisturizer- This moisturizer uses the power of hyaluronic acid to enhance skin’s elasticity and luminosity, turning up the brightness and hydration while eliminating dullness.
There are plenty of options for topical applications of hyaluronic acid, and each will bring you the benefits of more supple and better hydrated skin for a youthful glow.
