What Makes Hyaluronic Acid So Good for Your Skin?

Skincare Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid- Why is Hyaluronic Acid Good for Skin?

If you have kept up to date with our previous posts, the word “acid” will no longer fill you with images of something scary! In fact, you’ll know that using AHA and BHA in your daily skincare routine will work at giving you a healthy, youthful, glowing complexion. So today I thought I’d share with you some information about one of the most popular acids available on the market, hyaluronic acid. This supercharged, moisture-enhancing facial acid is truly remarkable with no other AHA having the ability to deliver outstanding results as Hyaluronic.

So, read on to find out more about this wonderous, and slightly genius AHA and the difference it can make to your skin.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced in the body to maintain the moisture levels in the skin, keeping its barrier functioning properly. The acid is also called a humectant, which is a substance used to reduce the loss of moisture. There is, however, some trouble as it encounters daily aggressors, such as pollution and the environment making the moisture levels dip at a rate too quickly for the body to maintain, usually resulting in skin irritation. The way it works is like a magnet, keeping the cells of the skin retaining as much water as possible, 1 single gram of hyaluronic acid holds up to 6 litres of water, great for your thirsty skin.

When all this is working your skin is hydrated, plumper, healthier and firmer-looking. You also don’t need to worry about these skin cells retaining too much water, as this clever AHA can regulate the amount within the cells, stopping them from drowning, now you know why it’s described as a genius!

Hyaluronic acid can be manufactured in many different ways, such as synthetically and naturally from plants and fermented wheat which extracts the hyaluronic acid present in wheat resulting in a completely naturally derived acid. No matter the way it is produced, the structure remains the same with incredible hydrating properties improving the overall complexion, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and calming any skin irritation and dehydration.

How Does Hyaluronic Acid Work?

Hyaluronic acid is a natural compound in the body that over time, as we age, its production and ability to keep up wavers, with the levels depleting and loss of moisture resulting in our skin become parched, rigid and lined. By using a synthetic version of this acid and applying it topically the skin’s moisture barrier will receive a boost and you will be able to maintain a soft, firm, youthful-looking face! Hyaluronic is able to do this by acting like a giant sponge, and when applied will draw in moisture from the air around you and balance out the water in the skin cells with great ease.

You may be thinking about how this particular acid doesn’t appear to act in a normal ‘acid’ way. Hyaluronic acid is quite different from the other alpha hydroxy acids. With its own unique properties making it a brilliant moisturiser and doesn’t exfoliate like the other acids. The name hyaluronic acid derives from the enzymes that synthesise with it, also known as, hyaluronic acid synthase. You must also remember that the molecule size of hyaluronic acid is large, meaning it cannot penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, unlike the others. That doesn’t make this AHA less powerful either.

Here are some unique benefits of hyaluronic acid:

Hyaluronic acid will work wonders for all skin types, sensitive, oily and blemish-prone

Unlike other AHA hyaluronic requires no downtime and does not cause any sensitivity to the skin

After many studies, hyaluronic acid has also been found to contain antioxidant properties meaning your skin will have a built-in shield from free radicals that are out of your control, eg. Pollution.

So, although it is indeed part of the large AHA family, this acid can certainly stand alone in providing credible skin care results.

What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do for Your Skin?

As mentioned, hyaluronic acid varies from the other AHAs due to the fact it is a lot more gentle on the skin.

Some skin benefits of hyaluronic acid:

Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles diminishing all signs of ageing

Restores the water levels in the skin’s barrier with unrivalled hydration

Increases the resilience of your skin making it able to protect itself and able to fight off toxins and free radicals

Although hyaluronic is not able to replace the elastin in your skin, it is able to help with the appearance of any sagging skin by adding tightness and enhancing the contours of the face.

Helps to smooth out any uneven skin texture and pigmentation found on the skin.

It doesn’t help with the production of skin cell renewal but aids the process by adding hydration making the cells appear more vibrant for a longer amount of time.

By promoting moisture balance to the skin, hyaluronic is able to control the amount of oil produced resulting in fewer blocked pores and breakouts.

Now if all of these haven’t made you want to dive into a pool of hyaluronic acid, I will now example how to use HA and which skin types will benefit adding it into your daily skincare routine.

How Do You Use Hyaluronic Acid?

1. Find the right formula for your skin type

Hyaluronic acid is mainly found in either water-based and oil-based serums, this means you can match the serum to your skin type, for example, dry skins would benefit more from using an oil-based serum, whereas oily skin types would see better results using a water-based.

Test the product first

Hyaluronic acid is remarkable at being gentle enough for all skin types to use it. However, be sure to take the correct precautions when trying out a new product. Start with a patch test by applying a small amount in a discreet area, such as behind your ear for 24 hours to make sure your skin has no reaction.

Apply your serum after cleansing

Cleanse and tone your skin as you would normally, but before you apply your moisturiser, use your hyaluronic acid first this gives the skin a chance to have a double hydration boost.

Apply on damp skin

As previously mentioned hyaluronic acid loves to drink up any moisture in the air surrounding it. By using HA on already damp skin you are giving the acid the chance to absorb into the skin quicker and retain moisture.

Use it day and night

Due to the fact HA is not UV sensitive, unlike glycolic acid, you are able to use it in the morning and evening. This will aid your skin in more ways than you think as you can team hyaluronic acid with other products containing AHA, BHA and retinol for optimal results.

You will be astonished at the results you will see when you add this skin reviving elixir to your entire skincare routine.

Which Skin Types Need Hyaluronic Acid?

Everyone.

Yes honestly, everyone can use hyaluronic acid. Unlike exfoliating AHAs it does not strip the skin or require any downtime or need for worry. Think of it simply as a large glass of water for the face.

Dry Skin Types: You have properly already guessed that this humectant for dry skin types would feel as though it was sent from the gods. Withered, parched, sallow looking skin is restored to full bouncy, radiant complexion.

Oily and Blemish-Prone Skin Types: Due to HA working hard at balancing the oil production of your skin, your skin will feel comfortable without the worry of blocked pores or breakouts developing from using such a moisturising product. If you have any active spots you have the peace of mind no extra bacteria and debris are being added.

Dehydrated Skin Types: Just to make something clear, all skin types can become dehydrated, the tip to remember is to not fall into the trap of thinking these new fine lines are results of ageing. 99% of the time your skin is just thirsty and applying hyaluronic will iron out any lines and make the skin look smooth and full of health.

Sensitive Skin Types: If you haven’t dabbled into the world of AHA, hyaluronic acid would be a great starting point at balancing the skin’s barrier and build up a strong protective shield from any free radicals, daily aggressors and other toxins that can lead to irritation.

Yes, no joking about it, hyaluronic acid really does work wonders on all skin types!

What Are The Side Effects Of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is in many skincare products, but medically used by many professionals during eye operations and also filler injections. When used in these areas some side effects may appear, such as:

Sore throat

Dry eyes

Stiffness in joints

Pain in jaw and other joints

All of these side effects will be discussed with you by the healthcare provider should you undergo any of the procedures mentioned.

As for side effects for topical use, there are very few chances of having any, but like all new products, a patch test must be taken for at least 24 hours to ensure there is no reaction or skin irritation.

Considering all the skin benefits of this powerful ingredient it makes you wonder if there is any room left in your routine for anything else. But before you throw away any products, the beauty of HA is its capability to deliver amazing results on its own accord, but also when teamed with other skin acids.

With HA having such unrevealed strength at pulling in moisture to the skin’s surface you aren’t likely in need to use hyaluronic in more than one product, remembering the fact your body naturally produces it also. To stimulate the production of the acid in your body you can add antioxidant-enriched fruit and vegetables into your diet, this is the easiest way to help your skin look young and plump. At least, that’s what you can tell everyone and keep hyaluronic acid as your skin-saving secret!

Have you ever wondered how lactic acid would work with hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine? Check out our lactic acid guide to find out more about this impression AHA.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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