DEMYSTIFYING: HYALURONIC ACID

With so many skincare ingredients out there, it can be tricky to figure out what each one does, and which are the best for your skin. On the agenda today: hyaluronic acid (HA). If you’re thinking of adding hyaluronic acid to your skincare routine, or if you’re already using it but not sure if you’re doing it right – keep reading. We’re here to tell you everything you need to know, from how and when to apply it, to debunking the myths, and the best hyaluronic acid serums for different skin types.

Think of hyaluronic acid as your hydration hero. Found naturally in the body with the highest concentration in the skin, this water-loving molecule acts as a humectant which means it helps your skin retain water by serving as a magnet for moisture. The result? A hit of hydration, visibly smoother texture and plumper skin.

The answer is a big fat yes! Although we naturally produce hyaluronic acid, ageing and environmental factors mean that over time it depletes, so to maintain healthy, hydrated skin, topical hyaluronic acid is a must. A single molecule can hold up to one thousand times its weight in water, so investing in hyaluronic acid serums and products is essential. However, if pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor first, and those with serious skin conditions should also proceed with caution.

Hyaluronic acid in skincare is generally gentle enough to be used twice daily (after cleansing). However, if you choose to use a product that mixes HA with more aggressive actives such as AHAs, BHAs or retinol, always check the usage instructions to ensure safe application. As hyaluronic acid pulls moisture from the environment or from the skin’s surface, it’s recommended to use a HA serum on damp skin or after a gentle mist to ensure that the hyaluronic acid isn’t pulling moisture directly from your complexion, which will leave your skin even more dehydrated.

Aside from its hydrating effects, hyaluronic acid targets fine lines and wrinkles, boosts the skin barrier, plumps skin and promotes skin suppleness and elasticity. It’s also a great product to use alongside other skincare essentials like Vitamin C. These two skincare heroes work hand in hand in delivering anti-ageing results and can be layered on top of one another in the same skincare regimen. Just be sure to start with the product that has the thinnest consistency first, for example a serum and then a cream, to ensure maximum absorption.