Hyaluronic Acid is something I’m asked about more and more frequently. What is it Hyaluronic Acid? Is it safe to use? How do I use it?

Hyaluronic Acid is a substance that is naturally present in the human body. It is found in the highest concentrations in fluid around the eyes and in our joints. It acts to hydrate, cushion and lubricate. As well as occurring naturally in the body, supplementary HA can be used to treat various joint disorders such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, eye surgeries and to assist in healing wounds, burns and skin ulcers.

Its often recommended for its ability to improve skin’s texture and appearance, along with reducing joint pain and other symptoms associated with ageing. HA is probably most well-known for its inclusion in anti-ageing skin serums, but you’ll also find it joint-supporting formulas, cold sore treatments, eye drops and lip balms.

Within the spaces within the skin it helps hold moisture within cells keeping the skin looking and feeling pump and hydrated. Baby skin has high levels of HA which is why it’s so plump and soft. As we age, the levels reduce – especially after the age of 40. 

When used correctly, it can be an incredibly hydrating addition to your skincare regime, working to promote supple, healthy-looking skin.

How Does Hyaluronic Acid Benefit The Skin?
Hyaluronic Acid is a natural element of the skin, present throughout the human body. Its beauty is its ability to retain moisture and a lot of it. The skin’s ability to hold moisture is increasingly important as we age as the skin doesn’t retain moisture as well as it once did, resulting in a loss of firmness, pliancy and suppleness.

Hyaluronic Acid can help enhance moisture content beyond compare and at the same time, revitalise the skin’s outer layer making it appear softer, smoother and plumper. Like a drink for the skin, it is not actually an acid, it wont strip the skin, it does the exact opposite, soothing and hydrating and is a bit of a super star ingredient when it comes to making the skin look youthful.

When using HA, many people report that their skin is ‘dewier’ in appearance, that the bags under their eyes become lighter and that their overall skin texture is smoother.

Which skin types is it suitable for?
Hyaluronic acid as a skincare ingredient is one of a few that benefits every skin type. For those with oily skin, hyaluronic acid in a fluid solution has a lightweight texture. For those with sensitive skin, it’s also incredibly gentle while providing optimal hydration.

Adding Hyaluronic Acid To Your Routine
Hyaluronic Acid is available commercially in serums which can be applied underneath a moisturiser, or mixed with another serum. If you have oily skin, you might choose to hydrate solely with a HA serum as they are usually oil free.It is available in different molecule sizes, each absorbing quicker or slower dependent on its size, multi molecular being the best. Totally safe enough to use morning and night, it doesn’t often give a WOW visual effect instantly upon application but will work to plump and hydrate skin as well as preventing moisture loss. Perfect to apply after an exfoliation, peel, sun exposure and cold weather.