· By Sara M, Founder
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid: A Natural Selection for Youthful Skin!
Hyaluronic acid (HA)- it sounds very complex, but it’s actually a naturally occurring molecule in the skin that plays a key role in retaining skin moisture, scaffolding the collagen, and maintaining youthful skin. As we age, our HA levels deplete, leading to dryness, wrinkles, and dullness.
But what if you could turn the clock back?
Emerging research shows that applying HA topically can help restore plump, smooth, and hydrated skin regardless of age.
A PubMed placebo-controlled study also showed that daily regular use of an HA serum significantly reduced wrinkles and skin roughness over eight weeks compared to a placebo. Scientists now believe it’s possible to “reprogram” the aged skin cells via HA application.
Intrigued? You’re not alone.
The global HA skin products market is projected to grow by $3.6 billion by 2030 due to high demand.
But not all HA is created equally. In this blog, we’ll cut through the hype and break down the science-backed benefits of high-quality, medical-grade HA for glowing, youthful-looking skin at any age.
But First, What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Imagine the plumpest, juiciest grapes or the smoothest, silkiest peaches—that's the moisture-binding power of hyaluronic acid!
Found naturally in our skin, this humectant acts like a sponge for the water, absorbing over 1000 times its weight. It cushions and plumps the skin, keeping it hydrated and very dewy.
Over time, our HA levels deplete, leading to Dryness and wrinkles. But not to worry! We can replenish this moisture magnet topically too.
When researching hyaluronic acid serums and creams, you may come across different molecular sizes—low, medium, and high. Each penetrates the skin to different depths. The smaller the molecule, the deeper it sinks into the drenched layers of skin with hydration. Larger molecules sit elegantly on the surface, instantly plumping the fine lines.
Our Hyaluronic Acid serum has a mixture of low and also high molecular weights so it can sit on the top of the skin as well as penetrate the outer layers of the skin to target different benefits. The combination of molecular sizes allows our serum to provide both the instant surface plumping as well as long-lasting deep hydration.
So whether you have dry and flaky skin or are focused on reducing the look of wrinkles, hyaluronic acid offers an insane amount of hydration.
What are the Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid?
Boosts Skin Hydration
By far, the best-demonstrated benefit of hyaluronic acid is improving skin hydration. Because Hyaluronic acid can hold such large volumes of water, it can significantly plump up the skin and enhance the moisture content. This provides many advantages to the overall system.
Softens and Smooths the Skin Texture
The added moisture from HA can have an almost immediate smoothing effect on the skin. Dehydrated skin often looks somewhat shriveled or wrinkled. But hydrated skin has a softer, fuller look and smoother surface texture. Regular hydration is the key to maintaining a youthful appearance over the period.
Improves the Skin Firmness and Elasticity
HA improves the skin turgor, which is the firmness level and elasticity in the skin tissue. As the skin loses moisture, it also tends to lose resilience and also flexibility. This can exacerbate the sagging or loose skin.
By keeping the skin well-hydrated with hyaluronic acid, it helps to maintain greater firmness and also “bounce.”
Plumps Up Fine Lines and also Wrinkles
The plumping effect of hyaluronic acid can temporarily diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As it absorbs water and volumizes skin, it stretches out the superficial wrinkles.
This doesn’t necessarily treat the underlying causes of wrinkles, but it can noticeably also lessen their shadows.
Soothes Sensitive or Irritated Skin
In addition to its moisturizing properties, hyaluronic acid also has anti-inflammatory effects. It’s been shown to calm irritation and redness.
HA can even stimulate wound healing, reducing the damage to skin tissue. It’s very gentle and unlikely to cause any sensitivity, making it suitable for most skin types.
Is Hyaluronic Acid Safe for Skin?
Over-the-counter hyaluronic acid serums and products applied on your skin (creams, lotions, etc.) or in eye care products are considered very safe.
Hyaluronic acid supplements taken by mouth are also considered to be safe (but you should still tell your healthcare provider about them, as you would for any other medication, vitamin or any other supplement).
How Hyaluronic Acid Attracts and also Retains Moisture
The hyaluronic acid molecule has a very unusual chemical structure. It comprises thousands of sugars linked together to form long chains called polysaccharides.
HA chains can be enormously large - with over 10,000 disaccharide units on each chain. They form dense networks with many strong hydrogen bonds that allow the chains to retain significant amounts of water.
The water retention capacity of hyaluronic acid is legendary. One gram of hyaluronic acid can hold up to six liters of water! Here’s why:
- The HA molecule has multiple polar sites with oxygen and hydrogen atoms that form hydrogen bonds with the water molecules.
- The large surface area of the coiled molecules traps the water quickly.
- The molecules link together to form a hydrophilic gel, holding the water within its structure.
This exceptional moisture-binding characteristic is why hyaluronic acid-formulated cosmetics are amazingly hydrating and plumping for the skin. The hydrated HA chains push against the extracellular matrix and dermis, causing the skin to appear smoother and also fuller.
Does Hyaluronic Acid Have Any Side Effects to Note?
As a naturally occurring substance in the skin, hyaluronic acid is generally well-tolerated when used in skincare products or cosmetic procedures. Serious side effects are infrequent. However, some people may experience some minor side effects.
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation is one of the most common side effects. People may experience skin redness, itching, or swelling when using topical hyaluronic acid products. People with sensitive skin seem to be very prone to irritation. Making sure to patch test hyaluronic acid products before their full use can help to identify a potential irritation. Avoiding products with added fragrances, alcohol, or preservatives may also minimize the risk.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections and Dermal Fillers
With injectable hyaluronic acid fillers, bruising, redness, and also swelling at the injection site are the common temporary side effects. These typically resolve within a week. Less than 1% of the people also experience lumps, tingling, itching, or any discoloration. Serious side effects like infection or even injector-related damage are infrequent.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to hyaluronic acid are very uncommon. Rashes, hives, itching, and also swollen lips or face may signal allergy. Anyone with an allergy to everyday food items like chicken, eggs, or soy should exercise caution with hyaluronic acid, as cross-reactivity can occur. An allergy test 24-48 hours before use can really help confirm or rule out allergy. Discontinuing use typically allows any reaction to be resolved.
While generally minimal, being aware of all the potential side effects can help you use hyaluronic acid products safely. Under most circumstances, hyaluronic acid has an excellent safety profile for skin enhancement and anti-aging benefits.
Consulting a dermatologist will help to determine if hyaluronic acid products make sense for your individual needs and skin type.
The Bottom Line
As we age, the body's natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases, leading to a loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin. Topical or injectable forms of hyaluronic acid can help maintain and enhance these qualities.
In addition to improving skin turgor and plumping up fine lines and wrinkles, it also has anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it suitable for sensitive skin and can help heal wounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does hyaluronic acid do for skin?
Hyaluronic Acid helps skin stretch and flex and reduces skin wrinkles and lines. Hyaluronic acid also helps wounds heal faster and can reduce scarring.
Is it OK to use hyaluronic acid every day?
Hyaluronic acid can be used everyday in a variety of situations to maintain skin health. All you have to do is apply the correct amount. You can usually use hyaluronic acid to clean and dry skin and then seal this in with moisturizer.
What effects does hyaluronic acid on your face?
Hyaluronic acid strengthens skin's natural barrier for more dramatic hydration, this can reduce and strengthen lipid barriers, as well as protect them. Hyaluronic acid also hydrates skin, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and smooths skin texture.
Where can I buy the best hyaluronic acid serum?
We sell one of the best hyaluronic acid serums on the market. We believe that skincare should be accessible and within reach. Here is a link where you can purchase our hyaluronic acid serum.