Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring sugar molecule intrinsic to maintaining optimal moisture within the skin. Its remarkable ability to retain 1,800 times its weight in water has placed the ingredient at the forefront of the skincare world. You will commonly find it in the form of hyaluronic acid serums.
Despite its name, it is not an acid, nor does it have exfoliating properties. Its primary function is to bind water to collagen. Hyaluronic acid draws water from the dermis and transporting it to the skin’s surface. It is classed as a humectant alongside other thirst-quenching ingredients, including glycerine and ceramides.
HA concentration in the skin accounts for 50% of the HA in the body. Interestingly, the highest levels reside within the dermis. Youthful skin is distinguished by a plump and radiant exterior, partly propelled by its high water content. As we age, HA levels in our skin naturally deplete, with studies implicating this decrease to be as much as 5% of the baseline level. This moisture loss is characterised by dryness, premature aging, and rough skin texture, all of which are exasperated by another deteriorating element: the skin’s lipid barrier.
Adequate amounts of water are essential to bolster and preserve the skin’s protective barrier, which weakens with age and exposure to external aggressors, including UV and pollution. As it breaks down, it leaves our skin more susceptible to irritation and damage. As such, replenishing moisture levels in the epidermis is critical to support the lipid barrier and ensure the skin remains at optimum health.
Extensive research has found HA to be a multifaceted and necessary ingredient responsible for many regenerative processes. These include increased skin elasticity, collagen, and wound healing. In one study, topical applications of HA improve facial contours and decreased both the depth and volume of wrinkles. While HA is suitable for all skin types, those struggling with dehydration, roughness, and wrinkles will receive the best benefits via daily topical applications.
Where Do We Find Hyaluronic Acid in a Skincare?
Due to its versatility, hyaluronic acid is included in a myriad of skincare formulations, the most notable of which are hyaluronic acid serums. It is also favoured in products promising instant hydration, including sheet masks, gels, creams, essences, and toners. Extreme loss of facial volume can be corrected through non-surgical procedures such as injectable HA fillers, though these are considered costly and invasive.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
Soothes and Calms Sensitive skin
A notable attribute of HA is that it is a non-irritating ingredient, making it suitable for those struggling with sensitive skin. Clinically, over-sensitised complexions are characterised by itching and burning sensations, are more prone to redness, and less likely to respond positively to topical applications of actives such as acids and retinol.
Thankfully, HA has been found to elicit little to no reactions and is generally well-received by such skin types. For reactive complexions like these, AHC’s Premium Ex Hydra B5 Soother provides much-needed nourishment and relief. Powered by hydrating HA and vitamin B5, the gentle gel formula boasts anti-inflammatory properties that restore a compromised skin barrier. As a result, the skin can better shield itself from external aggressors, thus preventing future oversensitivity. After applying the AHC Hyaluronic Dewy Toner, dab an appropriate amount over the entire face and pat to let it absorb. Lightweight and non-sticky, the serum quickly absorbs, leaving skin soft and supple.
Hydrate and Nourish
As previously mentioned, the primary function of HA serves to restore hydration levels. Water loss occurs naturally with age, exasperated by UV damage and environmental factors such as pollution and urbanisation. When skin is dry, it lacks flexibility and softness. Thus, regaining sufficient moisture is imperative to ensure optimum skin health.
Those looking for long-lasting moisture should opt for AHC’s Premium Ex Hydra B5 Emulsion. Rich in high-purity hyaluronic acids, the lightweight texture ensures concentrated hydration without weighing down the skin. Hydro Fix promotes the synthesis of hyaluronic acid in the skin, amplifying the hydrating effects. The addition of vitamin B5 further enhances the formula; this moisturising agent speeds up skin healing while reducing inflammation and blemishes. Press and pat onto a cleansed face for plumper skin – use emulsion after serum to seal in the moisture without clogging your pores.
A combination of gold peptides and hyaluronic acid makes AHC's Age Defense Real Eye Cream For Face effective in reducing wrinkles and fine lines.
Aging is most prominent around the eye area as the skin here is thinner and more prone to wrinkles. Unsurprisingly, caring for this area requires a cocktail of nourishing ingredients. Fine lines, loss of moisture, and volume are among the most frequent skin concerns of the aging eye area. Clinical studies show that applying 0.1% hyaluronic acid twice daily can significantly improve skin elasticity and hydration in the eye area.
If you’re looking for a multifaceted treatment, the newly launched AHC's Age Defense Eye Cream for Face caters to the complexion concerns accompanying busy lives. Though the battle with under-eye bags can seem everlasting, this targeted treatment actively improves skin density, leaving the eyes refreshed. A combination of high-function gold peptides and hyaluronic acid work in synchrony, promoting collagen synthesis and effectively reducing wrinkles and fine lines. The addition of gold particles diminishes dull skin and elevates brightness around the entire eye area.
Improve Skin Texture
Aging skin is drier due to the lower levels of HA in the skin and therefore has a rougher texture than its youthful counterparts. Toners are known for their ability to refine skin, and AHC’s Premium Ex Hydra B5 Toner is no exception. Studies show that repeated applications of HA reduce skin roughness, resulting in a significantly improved skin structure. The Ex Hydra B5 Toner takes this a step further by providing intensive moisturising and treatment for stressed complexions. Benefits of regular use include improved skin tone and texture, accompanied by supple, more resilient skin.
As an efficacious ingredient, HA is capable of remedying numerous complexion concerns, chiefly dehydration, visible signs of aging, and uneven skin texture. Apply twice daily alongside your other skincare products to get the best results.
Leave a comment
Skin Hydration 101: Basic Skincare Routine for Oily Skin
How to Get an Even Skin Tone (Without Expensive Cosmetic Treatments)
Best Eye Cream Guide: How to Apply It Like a Pro
How to Pick the Best Eye Cream for Your Age
Best Anti-Aging Products for Asian Skin
What Causes Dry Skin and 5 Ways to Treat the Condition
The Best Hydrating Toners for Dry Skin
How to Hydrate Your Skin, According to AHC Skincare Expert
Top 5 Ingredients to Treat Skin Hyperpigmentation
The Truth About Wrinkles: Common Causes and How to Treat Them