Hyaluronic acid is one of the most efficient moisturizing compounds: it can retain up to a thousand times its weight in water, and attracts water into the deep layers of the skin.
Hyaluronic acid is a type of sugar that occurs naturally in the connective tissue of the skin. Because its main function is to retain water, it helps seal moisture, thus keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. Our natural supply of hyaluronic acid, however, depletes with age, and we need to supplement its production. This is the reason why this substance is so popular in skin products, dermatologist Gretchen Frieling explains to PureWoW.
Hyaluronic acid is suitable for any skin type – ultra-sensitive, dry, combination or oily skin. Research has also revealed that hyaluronic acid speeds up the healing of the skin.
The benefits of hyaluronic acid for the skin
Hyaluronic acid is useful in the treatment of dry skin and in smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, and it also reduces redness and inflammation, and is often used on acne-prone skin. According to the specialist, it cannot eliminate acne by itself, but it can be part of a comprehensive treatment.
Hyaluronic acid is present in the entire body, but it is more concentrated in the skin. When applied, it acts as a moisturizer, but it is even more useful if used with another moisturizer to seal the hydration if your skin is extremely dry. If you have oily or combination skin, using a HA serum can give you exactly the same benefits without clogging your pores.
As Dr. Frieling explains, hyaluronic acid is great for acne prone skin, as it helps regain moisture lost with the use of antibacterial products and exfoliating acids, while still allowing the skin to breathe.
Hyaluronic acid has been shown to help speed up the healing process of wounds, including scars left behind by acne or other skin conditions.
While daily application of hyaluronic acid will make the skin look younger and radiant, due to the fact that it stimulates elasticity, it integrates perfectly into any anti-aging routine including the use of retinol, vitamin C or E.