When your plants begin to dry out, the first step in the process to revive them is by watering them. Similarly, hydration becomes important when your skin starts showing signs of dryness, fine lines, and dullness. Hyaluronic acid, an ingredient every skincare enthusiast is a fan of. And why not? It is super skin hydrating ingredient that serves multiple benefits to the skin, especially keeping skin youthful. The tip is, it is a winning ingredient for all skin types.
What is Hyaluronic acid (HA) in skin care ?
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a natural molecule that has a unique capacity to retain water in the skin. It is found in every connective tissue of your body. But, your skin comprises the largest amount of Hyaluronic Acid i.e. 50 % of total HA present in your body.
Specific membrane-bound enzymes called Hyaluronic Acid Synthases (HAS) are responsible for the synthesis of HA. When skin retains more water it automatically becomes smoother and plumper, which effectively diminishes fine lines and wrinkles. HA also plays a vital role in improving skin hydration, collagen production, tissue repair, skin elasticity, and wound healing.
Top 7 benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for skin
Apart from balancing skin moisture levels, it tackles one of the most worrisome skin concern i.e., aging skin. Know the benefits of hyaluronic acid in fighting signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, dryness etc.
1. Improves skin elasticity
A research study mentioned in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules has also demonstrated the efficacy of hyaluronic acid in improving skin firmness and elasticity. As you age decreased collagen levels lead to decreased skin elasticity. HA helps boost collagen production and maintain elasticity of skin making it look firm and flawless.
2. Maintains smooth, supple, and plump skin
In the quest to triumph over your rough, dehydrated, and dull skin, Hyaluronic Acid is your sword. Applying hyaluronic acid increases the skin's moisture content and gives ultimate rejuvenation.
3. Diminishes fine lines and wrinkles
Due to lack of hydration, fine lines & wrinkles become noticeable around eyes and lips. Owing to its virtue of reducing the trans-epidermal water loss, it retains water in your skin which ultimately makes your skin look youthful, firm, and flawless. In other words, this skin-friendly ingredient is very helpful to restore youthfulness back to your face.
4. Restores youthful glow and promotes glowing skin
Hyaluronic acid moisturizes and hydrates skin to the core, and moisturized skin keeps wrinkles and lines at bay making skin look youthful and glowing. It perks up dull complexion and tighten the skin texture. In addition it prevents excess oil production by maintaining moisture levels.
5. Fights puffy eyes, dark circles, and eye bags
Hyaluronic Acid is considered one of the most gentle ingredients for your delicate under-eye area. This hydrating ingredient works exceptionally well when it comes to plump up tired under-eye areas and get rid of dark circles. It hydrates and plumps the skin so that blood vessels and darker skin tissue are not as visible.
6. Improves protective lipid barrier
Skin lipid barrier defends your skin from environmental pollutants, bacteria, and other external factors. When the skin barrier becomes debilitated, it gives rise to extremely dry, flaky, and dull skin. Humectants like Hyaluronic Acid are known to strengthen your skin’s barrier by sealing in the moisture.
7. Promotes skin cell regeneration
Another interesting benefit of Hyaluronic Acid is that it promotes skin cell regeneration. Potent skin hydration and antioxidant properties accelerate the skin rejuvenation process. Thereby, revealing a vibrant and glowing appearance.
FAQs about Hyaluronic Acid
1. Which hyaluronic acid is best for skin?
While looking for Hyaluronic Acid-based skin care products you must have come across the word "Sodium Hyaluronate". Sodium Hyaluronate has an edge over hyaluronic acid for your skin. Sodium Hyaluronate has a very low molecular weight which allows its easy penetration through your skin. In addition, it is also more stable than hyaluronic acid hence less likely to oxidize. It penetrates deeper into skin providing every layer of skin ample hydration.
2. How to use hyaluronic acid for skin care?
Though hyaluronic acid is an ingredient popular in all products but it is however suggested to use it in moisturizer and serum form. Serum target individual skin concerns and moisturizers are for balancing moisture level. Hyaluronic acid if paired with ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides will work wonders on your skin.
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In serum form
Since serums are in highly concentrated form they penetrate deeper into skin and provides hydration. A serum with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, the power couple will prevent acne, enlarged pores and signs of aging.
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In the form of moisturizer
Use a moisturizer rich in ceramides and hyaluronic acid to prevent dull and flaky skin. Moisturizers control excess oil production by providing ample hydration and refines skin texture. They keep the moisture locked.
3. Does hyaluronic acid have any side effects?
Hyaluronic acid is safe for all skin types and since it is a natural substance present in our skin that makes it even more relevant for topical use too. Even doctors say that using it daily doesn’t lead to any adverse effects when applied topically.
4. Is hyaluronic acid good for skin everyday?
Using hyaluronic acid daily twice is considered safe. It can be used in moisturizer form or serum form for attaining the best results.
Summary
From dry to oily skin, hyaluronic acid suits all skin types and it tackles multiple skin concerns. Introducing this wonder hydrating ingredient in your skincare regimen would be a very wise decision. It hydrates skin to the core and prevents dry and flaky skin. It is the key to your youthful and rejuvenated skin.
