Find out what Hyaluronic Acid is – and why your skin needs it.
Don’t let the name scare you off: Hyaluronic Acid is a skin-moisturising powerhouse. Far from what its sting-inducing name might suggest, this tried-and-true skin care staple is something that our bodies naturally produce – and it plays a key role in helping skin stay hydrated and plump. Read on to find out everything you need to know to get the most out of this mega moisturiser.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
So why do we need more if our bodies already produce it?
Also known as Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring polysaccharide (sugar) that’s present in skin as well as the connective tissue throughout our bodies. A single Hyaluronic Acid molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, which is gradually released into the skin – so it plays a crucial role in helping skin stay plump and hydrated.
What does Hyaluronic Acid do for skin?
There’s a lot to love about Hyaluronic Acid! Here are some of its key benefits:
- A natural humectant, it improves and helps maintain hydration levels, giving skin a firm, healthy look.
- It exhibits antioxidant properties, which means it can help skin fight free radical damage.
- As a major structural component of skin, Hyaluronic Acid is effective at helping to maintain elasticity.
- Its antibacterial properties make Hyaluronic Acid beneficial at helping to facilitate wound healing.
How does it work?
Topically applied Hyaluronic Acid pulls in water from the environment (remember, a single molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its weight)! It also can regulate moisture within cells – so it gradually releases hydration into the skin, in the process plumping, softening fine lines, and lending skin an overall radiant look.
Who should use Hyaluronic Acid?
One of Hyaluronic Acid’s greatest strengths is its versatility. Since it’s a powerful yet gentle moisturiser, it works well for a wide range of skin conditions. Dehydrated skin benefits tremendously from water-based moisturisers like Hyaluronic Acid. It retains moisture and then gradually releases it, so skin stays plump and hydrated all day long. It’s also a great choice for anyone who wants to address premature signs of ageing. We produce less natural Hyaluronic Acid as we age, so applying it topically is an ideal way to address fine lines and wrinkles and helps maintain your skin’s elasticity. Because it’s water-based and non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), Hyaluronic Acid also makes an excellent moisturiser for sensitive, sensitised or breakout-prone skin.
Different types of Hyaluronic Acid
There are a number of different types of Hyaluronic Acid and they have a variety of molecular weights which have different benefits in the skin. The differences lie in the molecular weight or size of the molecule. Larger Hyaluronic Acid molecules sit closer to the skin's surface whilst the smaller ones penetrate deeper into the epidermis.
Here’s some to look out for:
- Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer- Stays in the skin’s uppermost layers longer, allowing for enhanced hydration.
- Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycan- Hydrolyzed to strengthen its water holding capacity.
- Sodium Hyaluronate- Identical to natural Hyaluronic Acid once absorbed.
- Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid- Low molecular weight for improved penetration and wrinkle reducing.
- Hyaluronic Acid- A natural substance in skin that has the stunning capacity to attract and hold vast amounts of moisture.
To give your skin a serious hydration boost, choose a leave on product such as a serum, booster, or moisturizer and for best results, make sure you’re layering your skin care regimen correctly.
Top Hyaluronic Acid containing formulas
Circular Hydration Serum to intensely moisturise thirsty skin as it replenishes skin for longer-lasting hydration. Apply under moisturiser.
Stress Positive Eye Lift a high-performance eye masque that minimises the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, increases skin luminosity, and helps restore skin barrier integrity. Use a few times a week to boost tired eyes.
Phyto-Nature Firming Serum delivers skin-firming results over time, but it also delivers an instant flash-firming effect with next-generation Hyaluronic Acid. The molecular weight of this "super" HA has been optimised to maximise bioavailability. Use daily under moisturiser to reawaken the nature of younger looking skin.
Biolumin-C Gel Moisturiser a weightless, Vitamin C rich gel moisturiser that brightens instantly and over time and hydrates for more luminous skin with five types of Hyaluronic Acid to provide long-lasting hydration. Suitable for all skin conditions.
We understand that your skin is unique so, if you’re unsure where to start, click here to book for a virtual consultation where our expert skin therapists will take you through a Face Mapping skin analysis with personalised product and treatment recommendations.
You can also visit a Dermalogica Skin Therapist where they can kick start your skin regimen in the treatment room for next level results. Find your local Dermalogica Expert here or click here to chat live now.