It may sound like something you don’t want to put anywhere near your face, but hyaluronic acid is not anything to be afraid of, in fact our own skin cells produce hyaluronic acid naturally in a bid to maintain moisture levels and is critical in maintaining skin hydration.
Here’s the science part: hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found throughout the body’s connective tissue. Glycosaminoglycans are simply long unbranched carbohydrates, or sugars, called polysaccharides. The substance works as a magnet for moisture, helping your cells retain as much of it as possible so that your skin feels and appears hydrated, plump and healthy.
Just a single gram of hyaluronic acid has the impressive ability to hold up to six (yep, six) litres of water. Add to that, a super smart ability to regulate that moisture within the cells, so as not to drown them and you’ve got one genius ingredient.
What are the benefits of hyaluronic acid?
- anti-aging
- moisturising
- wound healing
- anti-wrinkle
- increases skin elasticity
- can treat eczema
- can treat facial redness
Is hyaluronic acid safe?
Yes! Don’t be put off by the name, because, unlike some acids hyaluronic acid doesn’t strip the skin or cause any irritation when applied topically. It is different than other acids which are used to exfoliate, a natural and powerful moisture-binding substance, it delivers gentle hydration to where your skin needs it the most. You just need to make sure you’re applying it correctly. As a rule, you want to apply your hyaluronic acid product to clean, damp skin, and the lock it in with a moisturiser and face oil.