It’s never too early to start taking care of your skin! I struggled with my skin for years but now in my late 20’s, I finally got my acne under control and now focus on anti-aging skincare. One of the biggest factors in anti-aging is hydration. Hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient to retaining moisture. Here is everything you need to know about hyaluronic acid and how to use it!
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a sugar found naturally in our bodies. Its highest concentration is in areas that require a lot of moisture such as fluid in the eyes and joints. HA is a humectant which means it reduces moisture loss and prevents moisture from evaporating from our bodies. Hyaluronic acid that naturally occurs in our bodies decreases as we get older, contributing to aging skin. Much like collagen and elastin decreases as we age.
What does hyaluronic acid do for your skin?
HA helps your cells draw and hold in water causing your skin to look and feel plumped, hydrated, and healthy which smooths fine lines and wrinkles. It can also speed up healing.
Ways to get hyaluronic acid
Diet
Here are some foods that contain high amounts of HA.
- Bone Broth
- Soy
- Root Vegetables
- Citrus Fruits
- Leafy Greens
Topically
- Serums
- Moisturizers
- Masks
- Cleansers
- Micellar Waters
- Makeup
Injectables
How to use hyaluronic acid on your skin
The word “acid” can throw us off a bit and make us worry that hyaluronic acid is harsh and shouldn’t be used with other products but rest assured HA is very flexible and can be used with pretty much any other products. It’s not the type of acid that melts shit. HA can be used daily and during your morning and nighttime skincare routines.
If used incorrectly, hyaluronic acid can actually dehydrate the skin. HA needs to attract water. If it does not have water on the skin or in the air to attract it will draw as much as it can FROM your skin. It is important to apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin then applying cream over it to trap the moisture so that the water-binding happens in your skin.
The Hyaluronic Acid Serum I Use
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Details
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 from The Ordinary is formulated with a combination of low, medium, and high molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, as well as a next-generation hyaluronic acid crosspolymer, at a combined concentration of 2% for multi- depth hydration. This system is supported with the addition of B5 for enhanced surface hydration.
Benefits:
- Replenish lost moisture, maintain healthy-looking skin, and provide enhanced barrier support
- PH 6.50 – 7.50
- Cruelty-free & Vegan
- Does not contain alcohol, gluten, nuts, oil, silicone, parabens, sulfates
Hyaluronic Acid Serums
Hyaluronic Acid Makeup