Why Hyaluronic Acid is so good to your skin
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that can be found in the human body. It is produced by our bodies and helps to keep skin looking plump, youthful and healthy. As we age, hyaluronic acid levels decrease which leads to thinner skin that doesn’t have as much elasticity or bounce back-ability. This article will teach you about hyaluronic acid, why it’s so good for your skin, how to use hyaluronic acid products correctly (including at what time of day), and what to look for when purchasing hyaluronic acid products.
What is hyaluronic acid?
If you’ve ever heard of hyaluronic acid but aren’t quite sure what it is, don’t worry! This ingredient might be found in your serums and products, even if you didn’t know. It’s a carbohydrate molecule that naturally occurs on the skin and has an unrivaled ability to hydrate our dewy complexions. Pronounced hiya-loo-ron-nick (hiya loo ron nick), the complexion champion has an amazing capacity to bind water molecules which makes it great for keeping out moisture from leaving our faces dry or dehydrated! I’m worth noting though that although this natural component of skin exists within us all as well as being used by beauty brands; however the version we find within skincare products is a synthetic version.
And before you worry about putting this acid on your skin, remember that not all acids are astringent. Milk is slightly acidic–as is our natural skin mantle! Hyaluronic acid falls at between 5 and 8 (the same as a cup of milky coffee) or is almost neutral on the pH scale, while normal human skins usually sit anywhere from 4 to 6.2; therefore it’s quite gentle on the skin too.
How hyaluronic acid works
When you apply a hyaluronic acid serum to your skin, it acts like a sponge by attracting moisture. Hyaluronic Acid is known to be able to hold 1000 times its weight in water! The natural moisturizing abilities of this ingredient help boost hydration on the surface of the skin and prevent further loss in moisture from occurring due to its restorative properties. When applied topically, synthetic-based ingredients work with our bodies’ own naturally produced components for maximum benefits that result in glowing, plump, and healthy-looking complexions.
When do you use Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid works best when you use it every day – morning and night. Remember to follow with your moisturiser afterwards, this makes sure everything says locked in!
What skin types suit Hyaluronic acid?
The moisture-boosting properties make it great for all skin types, but we think those with especially dry or dehydrated complexions will benefit even more than others.
What should I be looking for on the label?
Regardless of whether you choose a “pure” hyaluronic acid or a serum, the varying molecular weights of hyaluronic acid determine how far it can penetrate the skin. The smaller molecules will go deeper, while bigger ones are good for surface hydration and preventing dehydration.
A general rule is that high molecular weight HA binds with water in the upper layers of skin to retain moisture, prevent dehydration and make your face look healthier.
For the ultimate hydration boost, look for a product containing both sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid. Sodium hyaluronate is more easily absorbed than its predecessor but provides all of the same benefits – you won’t be disappointed!