Hyaluronic Acid: What Is It And What Are Its Benefits?

Written by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature) Experience: 11 years

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

Read full bio of Ramona Sinha

• May 29, 2024

Hyaluronic Acid What Is It And What Are Its Benefits

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Hyaluronic acid is the hottest skin care trend that’s doing the rounds of the beauty industry right now. Right from serums to night creams, this magic ingredient is everywhere! And it is one ingredient that beauty bloggers and skin care fanatics swear by. What is it, and what does it do to your skin? Aren’t “acids” suppose to be bad for the skin? I know there’s much clarity required on this topic, and that’s what this article is all about. You will find all the answers to your whats, hows, and whys here. Read on.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that your body produces naturally. It is also known as hyaluronan and is mostly found in your joints and the fluids in your eyes. It acts as a lubricating agent in your body. Moreover, this acid can retain water in the skin (1).

This acid is now a key part of many anti-aging and skin care products. It is used for moisturizing the skin, and you will find hyaluronic acid in serums, creams, and lotions.
So, what exactly are its benefits? Let’s check them out.

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Hyaluronic Acid: Benefits For Skin

1. It Keeps The Skin Hydrated

The application of hyaluronic acid can make your skin appear hydrated and dewy. This is because it can retain water molecules in your skin. Loss of moisture is a key factor that causes skin aging (2). As the cells and tissues lose moisture, they become dry and tend to sag. Hyaluronic acid helps in preventing water loss and diminishes the signs of aging.

2. It Decreases The Appearance Of Wrinkles

A 2014 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology concluded that products containing hyaluronic acid decreased the appearance of wrinkles and reduced skin sagging (3).

3. It Improves Skin Elasticity

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology explored the efficacy of nano-hyaluronic acid in maintaining skin elasticity and skin hydration levels. It found that the nano-hyaluronic acid increased the skin hydration levels by 96% and the firmness and elasticity of the skin by 55% (4).

Usually, when using beauty products and treatments, the application matters. You have to consider whether it can be layered with other products or applied alone. Also, the time of the day you are using it is important. Though there is no exact rule for applying the acid, there are some ways that work best. Here is how you can try including the acid in your beauty regimen.

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Ways To Include Hyaluronic Acid In Your Skin Care Routine

Mix it with your daily moisturizer: Add hyaluronic acid to your moisturizer. You will get the benefits of both the product and the acid.
Apply it just after your shower: Apply hyaluronic acid just after you have showered or washed your face. Apply it directly on the damp skin. You can use it as a base for your makeup. And in case you want an additional layer of protection, apply moisturizer before putting on makeup.
As your daily serum: You can also use hyaluronic acid as your daily night serum. Apply it, leave it on overnight, and wake up with baby soft skin.

Here is a list of products that must find a place in your beauty kit.

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Best Hyaluronic Acid Products You Can Get

1. L’Oreal Paris Hydra Genius Face Moisturizer

Whether your skin is oily or dry, it needs proper hydration to look youthful. And this product claims to provide intense hydration for at least 72 hours. This lightweight face moisturizer contains aloe vera and hyaluronic acid that deliver a matte finish.

2. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream

The non-comedogenic formula of the gel provides rapid and intense hydration to your skin, keeping it soft and supple and restoring its natural moisture levels. The best part is, it is fragrance, oil, and dye free. This is best for you if you are looking for a gel-based formula instead of a moisturizer.

3. Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Gel

This formula contains sodium hyaluronate, which has the same effect as hyaluronic acid on your skin. This brand takes pride in making products using ingredients that are non-toxic and safe for your skin.

4. Clarins Hydra-Essentiel intensive Moisture Quenching Bi-phase Serum

This bi-phase serum contains kalanchoe extract along with hyaluronic acid, and both are intensely hydrating agents. It revives even the most parched skin.

5. Kate Somerville Wrinkle Warrior

In case you are looking at treating your wrinkles along with dry skin, this product is a wise option. You can skip using any other moisturizer or cream when you are using this. The hyaluronic acid not only hydrates your skin but also targets different types of wrinkles. This serum contains an anti-aging formula that penetrates your skin and minimizes fine lines, leaving it refreshed.

6. Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench

This product feels exceptionally gentle on your skin. It is extremely lightweight and non-greasy. The serum contains coconut oil, sodium PCA, and hyaluronic acid that moisturize the skin and emulsify oil and dirt.

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The skin care industry is always abuzz with ingredients with fancy names. Hyaluronic acid is not a skin care fad that’s going to fade pretty soon. This magical ingredient is backed by science and can transform your skin. Try it out and share your experience in the comments section below.