Most people know that using hyaluronic acid is a great way to achieve youthful-looking skin, but many don’t know how to use hyaluronic acid properly.
Using hyaluronic acid topically is a great way to increase hydration levels in the skin, but it’s important to use the right product for your skin type.
If you have dry patches, or if the skin doesn’t feel plump and elastic, using a product that contains hyaluronic acid can help.
There are a variety of different hyaluronic acid products available, so it’s important to find the one that is best suited for your needs.
What is Hyaluronic Acid and How Does it Work?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance, found in our joint fluids and connective tissues, that binds with water molecules to keep skin plump and hydrated.
It also has the added benefit of increasing elasticity and reducing dryness which can lead to wrinkles and fine lines.
Board Certified dermatologist Fayne Frey, MD says “Almost half of the body’s hyaluronic acid is found in the skin”.
This being said, the acid begins to diminish with age and causes natural levels to drop. As a result, people use certain products that contain the acid to help keep their skin looking, and feeling, healthy.
Hyaluronic Acid works by penetrating deep into the dermis and binding with collagen and elastin. It then draws moisture from the air and creates a plumping effect that temporarily reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
Benefits of Using Hyaluronic Acid
There a many positive benefits to be had from using hyaluronic acid, some of which we may not even know about yet. However, some we do know about include:
Reducing Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Hyaluronic acid gels, creams, and serums are advertised to reduce wrinkles and skin aging while improving your skin’s appearance overall.
Hyaluronic acid appears to aid with soft tissue development, encourage the formation of collagen and elastin in the body, keep your skin hydrated, prevent tightness and improve elasticity.
Help with Painful Joints
Hyaluronic acid is also found in the joints, where it keeps the gap between your bones well lubricated. The bones are less likely to grind against each other and cause discomfort when they are adequately moistened.
Helps Relieve Dry Eyes
Seeing as it can draw moisture, hyaluronic acid is often used to treat many issues relating to dry eyes.
Certain eye drops that contain between 0.2% and 0.4% have shown results of improving dry eye symptoms and maintaining overall good eye health – don’t think you’ll be getting night vision anytime soon though!
Can Help with Healing Wounds
One of its most redeeming benefits can be helping with healing wounds. Wounds can take a long time to heal, but hyaluronic acid can help to speed up the process.
This is because of the anti-bacterial properties that are found in the acid, so this can certainly help limit the risk of getting an infection.
Maintain Strength in Bones
Recent studies have shown promising signs of hyaluronic acid supplements slowing the bone loss rate in rats.
This occurs because of the increased activity of osteoblasts – the cells that are tasked with building tissue of new bones.
Side effects of Using Hyaluronic Acid
Although hyaluronic acid is a popular and beneficial skincare ingredient, it’s important to be aware of the side effects that can occur when using it. Some side effects include:
- Skin irritation
- Redness
- Swelling
- Burning sensation
- Itching
When using a product that contains hyaluronic acid, it’s important to start slowly and use it less frequently until your skin gets used to it. If you experience any of the above side effects, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Hyaluronic Acid Products
There are many hyaluronic acid products on the market, so it can be a little overwhelming to know which one to choose.
We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite products that contain the ingredient below:
- La Roche-Posay Active C Skincare Serum: This serum is enriched with 20% glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid to help improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and skin texture.
- Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner: This toner is enriched with hyaluronic acid and other antioxidants to help soothe and hydrate the skin.
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: This serum contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid in order to provide intense hydration for the skin.
- Weleda Almond Soothing Facial Lotion: This lotion is formulated with almond oil and hyaluronic acid to help soothe and nourish dry skin.
Additional Products We Like
- Best All-in-One: we recommend checking out the Hyaluronic Acid Serum by InstaNatural. This serum contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid to help plump and hydrate your skin.
- Best for Wrinkles: we recommend checking out the Hyaluronic Acid Eye Cream by LilyAna Naturals. This eye cream contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and antioxidants to help improve the appearance of your skin.
- Best for Hydration: we recommend checking out the Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer by InstaNatural. This moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid to help keep your skin hydrated and looking youthful.
How to Use Hyaluronic Acid
When hyaluronic acid is applied topically, it must be bioengineered to have a lower molecular weight for it to penetrate the skin’s surface.
Many chemists can still do this whilst maintaining the benefits of hydration.
Bonus: What does ‘Molecular weight’ mean?
Molecular weight is a measure of how heavy a molecule is. The higher the molecular weight, the more mass the molecule has. This is usually measured in Daltons (Da).
Hyaluronic acid is compatible with a wide range of topical treatments, such as vitamin C serums and retinol. Here’s how to use hyaluronic acid in your skincare regimen:
1. Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to your dampened face
If you’re using a hyaluronic acid serum, apply it after washing your face with cleanser and/or toner. After washing or toning your face, don’t pat dry it.
Apply a few drops of hyaluronic acid serum to your damp skin and massage in. Allow for absorption before continuing with the rest of your skincare routine.
2. Incorporate a hyaluronic acid moisturizer into your routine
If you’re using a hyaluronic acid moisturizer, apply it after serum application. Apply an ample amount to your face and neck, and allow time for absorption before applying makeup.
If you have dry skin, use it morning and night for best results.
3. Use a hyaluronic acid-based eye cream
If you’re using a hyaluronic acid-based eye cream, apply it morning and night to the delicate skin around your eyes. Gently massage the cream into the skin until it’s fully absorbed.
4. Consider taking a hyaluronic acid supplement
If you’re not getting enough hyaluronic acid through topical treatments, you may want to consider taking a hyaluronic acid supplement.
When selecting a supplement, be sure to read the ingredients list carefully to make sure that it contains pure hyaluronic acid. Talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.
The Three Main Types of Hyaluronic Acid
There are three main types of hyaluronic acid: low, medium, and high molecular weight. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks.
- Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid is the most common type. It’s easily absorbed by the skin and is great for hydration. It’s also been shown to be effective in wound healing. This is also referred to as Sodium Hyaluronate.
- Medium molecular weight hyaluronic acid is less common, but it’s been shown to be more effective in slowing the bone loss rate.
- High molecular weight hyaluronic acid is the least common type, but it’s the most beneficial for skin health. It’s great for hydration and plumping the skin, and it also has anti-aging benefits.
No matter which type of hyaluronic acid you choose, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.
How to Store Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid should be stored in a cool, dark place. You can store it in the refrigerator, but you don’t have to. Just be sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat.
When stored properly, hyaluronic acid will last for up to 18 months.
What to Look for in a Hyaluronic Acid Serum
When looking for a hyaluronic acid serum, be sure to look for one that contains pure hyaluronic acid. Avoid serums that contain fillers or other ingredients.
You should also look for a serum with low molecular weight so that it can be easily absorbed by the skin.
Be sure to read the ingredients list carefully before purchasing a serum.
Conclusion
When looking for a product that contains hyaluronic acid, it’s important to consider your skin type and the results you’re hoping to achieve. If you have oily skin, you may want to choose a light gel-based moisturizer that won’t leave your skin feeling heavy or greasy.
If you have dry skin, on the other hand, you’ll want to opt for a cream or serum that will provide your skin with long-lasting hydration.
Hyaluronic Acid is a popular ingredient in skin care products and supplements because of how it can help with skin hydration, pain relief, wound healing, wrinkles prevention – the list goes on.
It’s important to be aware of side effects that may occur when using hyaluronic acid though; some people might experience dryness or redness after using it. When using hyaluronic acid, it’s best to start slowly and increase the amount you’re using overtime if needed.
Hyaluronic acid is compatible with a variety of skincare products and can be used morning and night for the best results. Supplementing with hyaluronic acid is also an option if you’re not getting enough hyaluronic acid through topical treatments.
We hope you enjoyed this article! If you have any other questions about how to use hyaluronic acid, or if you would like to share your favorite product that contains the ingredient, please leave a comment below.