Hyaluronic Acid: What is it and how does it work?
Time to read 5 min
Whether you are a skincare expert or novice, chances are you’ve heard of Hyaluronic Acid. In 2023 there were over 700,000 Google searches on queries related to the benefits of HA, with over 200,000 for serums and moisturisers, which prove to be the most wanted products. It is one of the most talked-about ingredients in the industry today, with many people incorporating a HA product in their everyday skincare routine to reap the benefits (and trust us, there are many). In this guide, we will go through everything you need to know about Hyaluronic Acid and understand how to incorporate it into your beauty regime.
WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?
Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring sugar produced by our body. Its main function is to retain moisture, keep muscles lubricated and prevent water loss.
The largest amounts of it can be found in the skin, connective tissue, and eyes. It can absorb up to x1,000 of its weight in moisture, so it is no surprise that this powerful moisture-binding substance is so popular in skincare.
Other Names for Hyaluronic Acid
When used within products HA derivatives can be referred to under a few other naming conventions so keep an eye out for these ingredients in your skin care products:
Sodium Hyaluronate:
This is the salt form of hyaluronic acid and is commonly used in skincare products. It has a smaller molecular size than hyaluronic acid, which allows it to penetrate the skin more effectively.
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid:
This refers to hyaluronic acid that has been broken down into smaller molecules, making it easier to penetrate the skin. It’s often used in products that aim to provide deeper hydration.
Hyaluronan:
This is another name for hyaluronic acid, often used in scientific contexts. It refers to the same molecule and is sometimes used interchangeably with "hyaluronic acid."
Glycosaminoglycan:
While this term refers to a broader class of molecules, hyaluronic acid is a type of glycosaminoglycan, a substance found naturally in the body that helps maintain hydration and structural integrity in tissues.
Hyaluronic Acid Crosspolymer:
This is a modified form of hyaluronic acid that has been cross-linked to provide longer-lasting hydration and stability in skincare formulations.
These terms may appear on ingredient labels or product descriptions, especially in the context of skincare, cosmetics, or medical products designed to hydrate the skin, reduce wrinkles, or aid in joint lubrication.
What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do?
Your body naturally produces Hyaluronic Acid to keep your skin hydrated by binding to water molecules and aiding the absorption of water into the skin. In addition, it protects your skins natural barrier whilst helping to strengthen the skin, keeping it nourished and healthy.
It is an essential nutrient to maintain healthy connective tissues in your body. Over time, levels of Hyaluronic Acid decrease, leaving very little left for our skin after it has made its way around our body. This can result in skin dehydration and signs of ageing to appear such as loss of elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles.
Ageing and exposure to UV radiation and pollutants can all contribute to the reduction of natural Hyaluronic Acid in our skin.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN BENEFITS?
Hyaluronic Acid is highly regarded for delivering optimal hydration to plump and smooth the skin, whilst reducing the appearance and depth of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a firmer, more radiant and younger looking complexion which you can feel confident in.
Hyaluronic acid is a versatile and powerful ingredient known for its numerous benefits, particularly in skincare and medical applications. Here’s a detailed look at its key benefits:
Deep Hydration
Water Retention: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it has the ability to attract and hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This makes it highly effective at keeping the skin hydrated, plump, and smooth.
Skin Moisturisation: It helps to maintain moisture levels in the skin by forming a barrier on the skin's surface, preventing water loss and ensuring the skin remains supple and hydrated.
Improved Skin Elasticity
Enhances Skin Firmness: By maintaining moisture, hyaluronic acid helps to improve skin elasticity, making the skin appear firmer and more youthful.
Reduces Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Hydrated skin is less prone to showing fine lines and wrinkles, making hyaluronic acid an excellent anti-ageing ingredient. Hyalluronic acid is great for menopausal skin.
Anti-Ageing Effects
Reduction of Wrinkles: By boosting hydration and improving skin elasticity, hyaluronic acid can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, giving the skin a smoother, more youthful look.
Prevents Ageing: It helps to prevent the formation of new wrinkles by maintaining the skin’s moisture levels and protecting against environmental stressors.
Soothes Sensitive Skin
Reduces Redness & irritation: Hyaluronic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and calm irritated skin, making it beneficial for those with sensitive or reactive skin types.
Enhanced Skin Barrier Function
Protects Against Environmental Damage: By fortifying the skin’s natural barrier, hyaluronic acid helps protect against environmental factors such as pollution and UV radiation, which can lead to premature aging and skin damage.
Non-Comedogenic and Lightweight
Suitable for All Skin Types: Hyaluronic acid is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin. It’s also lightweight and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
Enhances Product Penetration
Improves Efficacy of Other Ingredients: When used in conjunction with other skincare ingredients, hyaluronic acid can enhance their penetration into the skin, making the overall skincare routine more effective. Hyaluronic acid is a powerhouse ingredient that offers a wide range of benefits, from deep hydration and anti-aging effects to soothing sensitive skin and promoting healing. Its versatility and compatibility with all skin types make it a staple in skincare routines and medical treatments.
HOW DO I GET IT?
There are a few ways to increase your intake of Hyaluronic Acid, one of which is incorporating foods rich in the substance into your diet. Foods with high levels include root vegetables, leafy greens, citrus fruit and soy.
Hyaluronic Acid can also be found in a variety of everyday skincare products including moisturisers and serums. It can take several weeks for your skin to get used to the product and start seeing the benefits of this hero ingredient. For optimal results, eat a diet rich in Hyaluronic Acid, as well as apply topically in your daily skincare regime, allowing optimum absorption and protection of your skin.
WHO CAN USE IT AND CAN YOU GET TOO MUCH?
While many people might be put off by the term ‘acid’, there is nothing harmful about Hyaluronic Acid. It is suitable for all skin types and can be used everyday season-by-season, to draw in moisturise and keep the skin feeling hydrated.
Like any active skincare ingredient, in a high concentration, too much Hyaluronic Acid may leave your skin feeling thirsty for hydration or cause a small amount of irritation. Ensure you are using the recommended dosage for optimum results and to restore the natural balance in your skin.