What’s this obsession with Hyaluronic acid? Everything you want to know about this juicy ingredient.
Let’s introduce you to the most hydrating and skin plumping ingredient on the market…
As we all know, what the ‘hottest’ product or ingredient on the market is forever changing and updating - but we’re here to cut through the BS, and share with you only the science backed, tested, tried and LOVED.
One of the most talked-about and searched ingredients right now is hyaluronic acid (HA). According to the LOOKFANTASTIC annual review, this moisturising ingredient generated 49,500 google searches on average per month and the hashtag #hyaluronicacid received over 591.8 million views on TikTok by the end of 2022. DAYMN.
Here’s some digestible science for you…
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring polysaccharide that is found in high concentrations in our skin, joints and eyes. It is a powerhouse of hydration and a moisture magnet that can hold 1,000x of its weight in water. HA is also a key player in maintaining collagen production, protecting against UV damage and reducing inflammation. It's the ultimate secret weapon for achieving healthy, youthful-looking skin and it’s no wonder that it’s becoming a staple in many skincare routines, especially as it's one of the best moisturising agents ideal for both dry and oily skin types!
Cosmetic Chemist Vanessa Thomas explains “As we age, our body produces less and less HA, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and a loss of elasticity in the skin.” UV rays, pollution, and smoking can also decrease the levels of HA in the skin.
But fear not, all is not lost! There are ways to boost the levels of HA in your skin. One way is through the use of skincare products that contain HA as an ingredient. Another way is through the use of dermal fillers, which are injections of HA that can plump up wrinkles and fine lines.
Fact: Did you know, hyaluronic acid one of the main ingredients used in many long-lasting lipsticks and lip stains?
What are the benefits?
So initially the word “acid” might concern some people, but it is actually nothing to worry about as we know now that HA is gentle because it is a natural part of skin, and irritations or allergic reactions are very rare with this skincare ingredient. Now that worry is out of the way, let's share the goodness. As well as helping your skin look and feel lush (at any age or skin type), HA has a number of other benefits:
Hydrates the Skin: This is probably the main reason HA is flying off the shelves; because it helps the skin soak up and hold into the moisture. This can give your skin a dewier and plumper appearance.
Reduces Wrinkles: Due to the intense hydrating effect, HA helps prevent signs of ageing such as dry skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. When used with other skincare products, hyaluronic acid can also boost collagen and improve your skin's elasticity.
Protects the Skin: The strong hydrating and antioxidant properties of HA also acts like a shield, protecting the skin from dehydrating and damage-causing elements like ultraviolet rays and tobacco smoke.
Fights Redness: HA has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and reduce redness in your skin.
What you need to know before buying your first Hyaluronic Acid product…
When looking for your new HA skincare product, there are a few things to consider.
Firstly, HA products may be listed as sodium hyaluronate — a version that tends to be cheaper and a smaller molecule size but is still deliciously effective, don't worry.
Second, aim for products (in general) that are made with natural ingredients, and avoid any products that include alcohols, artificial fragrances, harsh chemicals or anything with a high acid concentration.
Third, board certified dermatologist Dr Fayne Frey explains that “the majority of good over-the-counter (OTC) cosmetic creams, lotions, and serums are water based and contain less than 2 percent hyaluronic acid.” And also that “the most effective moisturisers also contain ingredients called occlusives”.
So keep an eye out for HA products that also include occlusive ingredients such as:
butters like shea and cocoa
oils like avocado
beeswax and carnauba wax
lanolin and stearic acids
How to add hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine.
So HA is interesting and different to other skincare products because depending on what form the ingredient is in will change how you use it. Moisturisers and serums are two of the most common forms of hyaluronic acid.
If you buy HA in moisturiser form: Use a moisturiser infused with hyaluronic acid at the same step in your skincare routine you would use your current moisturiser. Ideally, this would be 2 times a day and always after cleansing, exfoliating, or applying serums.
If you buy HA in serum form: A hyaluronic acid serum involves a slightly different routine. You would use your HA serum straight after your step 1 cleansing, and while your skin is still damp. Press a couple of drops into your face with the palms of your hands and don’t forget to apply a moisturiser immediately afterward to seal in all that hydration.
Hyaluronic Acid Products We love:
La Roche-Posay is publicly recommended by over 90,000 dermatologists worldwide, and their Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum is one of their top sellers.
Not only does this product have an incredible quality hyaluronic acid, but also contains vitamin B5, and niacinamide, of which is another popular ingredient that helps reduce the appearance of pores, redness, and fine lines.
Overall this is an ultimate WIN of a product if you’re looking to plump your skin, smooth fine lines and replenish skin protection.
2. OSEA - Hyaluronic Sea Serum
This sea serum is a favourite amongst buyers that love marine based ingredients and reaping all their extra benefits.
This Sea Serum is not only powered by two molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, but also includes organic seaweed extracts to enrich your complexion with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, as well as snow mushroom which works to restore and maintain optimal moisture levels, keeping your skin hydrated any time of day.
3. Three Ships - Dew Drops Mushroom Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C Serum
Three Ships Dew Drops Mushroom Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C Serum is an award winning product and the perfect blend and addition to your skincare routine.
Using a natural source of hyaluronic acid from the tremella mushroom which helps rejuvenate, firm, and hydrate the skin, blended with the kakadu plum, which is 100x richer in vitamin C than oranges, to help brightens complexions - this product has been a must-have for any buyers loving a more ‘derived from all natural products’ ingredients and vitamin C boost 2 in one product bonus.
The Bottom Line
You’re convinced now aren’t you. HA is the ultimate MUST HAVE for skincare. It's a moisture magnet, collagen booster, UV protector and inflammation reducer all rolled into one. Keep your levels of HA high and you'll have the now-not-so secret ingredient for healthy, youthful-looking skin.
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