What is Hyaluronic Acid & What Does It Do for Skin?
EVERYDAY SKINCARE
Found naturally within the human body, hyaluronic acid has an interesting origin. Its name, derived from the Greek word ‘hyalos,’ (meaning ‘glass-like’), reflects its unique properties. Initially discovered in the eye, there’s more to this ingredient than what meets the skin! Known for its hydrating qualities, you might be wondering ‘what is hyaluronic acid good for’ and which ingredients can we pair it with? Ahead, learn what hyaluronic acid can do for the skin and the best CeraVe products to add to your skincare regimen.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in various parts of the human body, including the skin, eyes and joints. For beauty and skincare purposes, it is typically made in a lab via a process called ‘biofermentation.’ As a water-binding molecule and a natural humectant, hyaluronic acid is an ingredient that attracts large amounts of water molecules and retains moisture in the skin, helping to rehydrate skin and assist with visibly plumper skin.
From pairing exceptionally well with ceramides to effortless layering with vitamin C, discover what hyaluronic acid does for the face below.
The best skincare ingredients to pair with hyaluronic acid
So, what does hyaluronic acid do for your skin? Well, as we age, the hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin content in our skin decreases, leading to a loss of skin volume, hydration and plumpness. This is why hyaluronic acid is a common ingredient in many skincare products. Since it can hold up to 1,000x its own weight in water, hyaluronic acid is well-versed in retaining moisture and holding onto it for longer, helping dehydrated skin or skin with a compromised skin moisture barrier to stay adequately hydrated.
Ahead, uncover the ingredients that fare best with hyaluronic acid and what they can do for skin.
Hyaluronic acid and ceramides
Hyaluronic acid and ceramides are skin-identical ingredients. This means they are compounds that mimic the composition of naturally occurring elements found within the skin. While hyaluronic acid helps to attract moisture to your skin, ceramides help to lock it all in, leaving the skin feeling well hydrated. Below, discover CeraVe products that each possess the powers of hyaluronic acid
and 3 essential ceramides:
• Formulated with our favourite humectant, three essential ceramides and vitamin b5, the Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum generously gives you up to 24 hours of hydration, making it suitable for those with sensitive, dry or normal skin types.
• For mild acne-prone skin, reach for lightweight Blemish Control Gel. This is a hydrating full-face AHA/BHA blend gel that helps target blemishes without drying out the skin. Enriched with ceramides, salicylic acid and skin-comforting niacinamide, this gel is recommended for application once per day in the evening. It is also oil-free and free of drying alcohol, leaving skin looking visibly clearer after 3 days.
Hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
The addition of hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to your skincare regimen can provide extra skin benefits. While we know what hyaluronic acid is good for, vitamin C is lauded for its brightening effects and its impressive abilities to promote collagen synthesis and protect against free radicals. You will find that hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are recommended to be layered in a skincare regime. Keep in mind that vitamin C is best applied in the morning, and always apply vitamin C first to cleansed, dry skin. Lastly, if using two products, leave some time for the vitamin C to sink into the skin before following up with your hyaluronic acid product.
Hyaluronic acid and retinol
So, what is the role of hyaluronic acid and retinol in skincare – two of the biggest players in the skincare sphere? While hyaluronic acid’s hydrating properties are second to none, retinol’s collagen stimulation properties are potent. With their different strengths and purposes, using them in tandem can help to improve skin texture and support ageing skin. Note that it’s best not to mix the two ingredients together; although you can apply both ingredients within the same evening skincare regimen:
1. Cleanse the skin first with a gentle cleanser.
2. Apply a retinol serum, then a hyaluronic acid serum.
3. Follow up with moisturiser.
4. In the morning, use a broad-spectrum SPF.
Hyaluronic acid FAQs
Now that we have covered what hyaluronic acid is good for, you may have some thoughts. Luckily, the CeraVe skincare team are ready to answer all the hyaluronic acid-related questions you can think of. Learn more below.
Is it OK to use hyaluronic acid every day?
Yes! Hyaluronic acid can be applied twice a day, in the morning and at night – just be sure to apply your hyaluronic acid products to clean, damp skin, and follow up with a facial moisturiser.
At what age should you start using hyaluronic acid?
The consensus is that hyaluronic acid should be used once you hit your 20s. If you start seeing fine lines under your eyes, this is a sign that you may want to slot hyaluronic acid into your skincare regimen. Look out for skincare ingredients like sodium hyaluronate, which is a salt derived from hyaluronic acid. On a molecular level, this is smaller than hyaluronic acid, so this may also be a good option for your skin.
Is hyaluronic acid OK for mature skin?
Yes. A loss of skin moisture is often due to skin ageing, and hyaluronic acid is good at helping mature skin appear visibly plump, hydrated and dewy. The hydrating effect helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, providing a more hydrated, healthy-looking complexion.
Now that you know what hyaluronic acid is and what it is good for, discover the ingredients to mix with ceramides in skincare.