It’s likely you’ve heard all the rage about hyaluronic acid. This holy grail ingredient is the number one product I cannot live without! We often hear about beauty trends and products of the moment. Yet, when it comes to hyaluronic acid, this ingredient has proven not to be a trend! What is all of this talk really about, and what are the hyaluronic acid hydration benefits?
Hyaluronic Acid = Hydrated skin
To begin, hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar molecule in our bodies that holds water and keeps skin hydrated and plump. As we age, our skin cannot maintain the same level of moisture as it did in our twenties. That is precisely when I looked in the mirror several years ago and said, “HELLO fine lines and wrinkles!” Enter: your new bestie, hyaluronic acid, in the form of a serum or creme. Hyaluronic acid (HA) attracts and maintains moisture in our skin cells, binding water to collagen. It can hold up to 1,000 times its molecular weight in water. As a result, it literally bathes our skin in water, which is what creates that plump, bouncy, hydrated skin we all seek.
I like to think of Hyaluronic Acid as a big drink of water for your skin! Without it, your skin suffers from dehydration and will ultimately lose firmness and show more fine lines. Hyaluronic Acid acts as a humectant, bringing in moisture from the surrounding environment. Its purpose is to maintain hydration for long periods of time, thus leading to a variety of other skin improvements and an overall healthy, vibrant appearance.
Hyaluronic Acid Hydration Benefits
Maintaining a consistent level of hydration with HA ultimately helps with pore minimization, smoothing skin texture, and skin tightness and firming. Additionally, it protects your skin barrier and therefore promotes skin cell regeneration. Without the proper hydration applied to your skin barrier, the said benefits cannot be maintained long-term.
Lastly, don’t let the word “acid” scare you. Hyaluronic acid is used well with all skin types. It is a lightweight, watery natured substance that should not cause any negative skin reactions.
How and When to use it
I typically choose to apply Hyaluronic Acid in the form of a serum. A few of my favorites include Barbara Sturm’s Hyaluronic Serum, IS Clinical Hydra Cool Serum, and Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair. Each of these serums can be applied to a damp face after cleansing and toning, and then followed with a moisturizer or oil of your choice to seal in the moisture. Applying to a damp face ensures the moisture will stay locked in for long periods of time. Hyaluronic acid can be used both morning and night, but is recommended at least once a day.
