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Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a polysaccharide and acidic glycosaminoglycan that is found in many tissues of the body. The highest concentrations are found naturally in the skin, vitreous humor of the eyes, and synovial fluids in joints. Its main functions are to store water and maintain hydration as well as cushioning and lubricating movable organs like the eyes and joints. The most well-known benefits of hyaluronic acid are for improving skin hydration and suppleness.
Hydration and Anti-Aging Benefits
One of the primary roles of HA in the body is to attract and retain water. This is why it is often called the “hydrator of the skin.” As we age, the natural levels of HA in our skin decline, causing skin to lose its plumpness and elasticity. Topical hyaluronic acid works to replenish hydration and moisture levels. It forms a protective barrier on the skin surface to prevent water loss. This plumping effect helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving skin a more youthful and supple look.
Inflammation and Redness Relief
HA also carries anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated or inflamed skin. This makes it a popular active ingredient in products designed to treat conditions like rosacea, eczema, and acne-prone skin. The hydrating and smoothing effects help reduce redness and calm breakouts. It creates a uniform appearance and texture to skin.
Types of Hyaluronic Acid Products
Hyaluronic acid comes in several molecular weight sizes utilized in different skincare formulations:
– Serums: Light formulations that penetrate deeper layers. Look for serum with low to medium molecular weight HA for optimal absorption. Apply on cleansed skin.
– Creams/Moisturizers: Rich hydrators that form an emollient barrier on skin surface. Choose cream/lotion with high molecular weight HA to lock in moisture. Smooth onto damp skin.
– Eye Creams: Specifically formulated for the delicate under eye area. May have lower HA levels for gentle cares. Smooth on morning and night.
– Sheet Masks: Soak up hydration boost through mask soaked in HA essence. Great for weekly pampering or travel. Use 20-30 minutes, 1-2 times weekly.
– Face Masks: Clay-based masks with HA to soothe skin and reduce oil/shine post-use. Apply 1-2 times weekly as a detoxifier or for acne-prone types.
– Facial Rollers: Rolling motion boosts product absorption and stimulates circulation. Use daily AM with favorite hydrating serum for bright, plumped skin.
Best Hyaluronic Acid Brands
When seeking out a hyaluronic acid product, look for brands with proven formulations and active ingredients lists. Here are some top hyaluronic acid product lines:
– Neutrogena Hydro Boost line: Gel-cream and extra-dry skin formulas with hyaluronic acid+pro-vitamin B5 for intense hydration.
– The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: Cult favorite serum with multiple molecular weights for multi-level hydration. Budget friendly.
– Ole Henriksen Truth Serum: Collagen-boosting vitamin C serum with hyaluronic acid complex to smooth wrinkles.
– Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair: Iconic cream utilizes HA+triple hyaluronate complex for repairs overnight.
– Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Gel: Gel texture perfects dehydrated, flaky skin with hyaluronic acid+amino acids.
– Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream: Soothing aloe+ HA cream for sensitive, redness-prone complexions.
– Laneige Water Bank Moisturizer: Light gel-cream hydrator replenishes with hyaluronic acid+mineral water throughout the day.
