What is Hyaluronic Acid and How Do I Use It?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has become a staple in many skincare products due to the fact that it is an extremely hydrating and protective ingredient. Products containing hyaluronic acid are typically suitable for all skin types, but have been especially praised by skincare experts for treating those with dry, dehydrated skin. Although hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body (it is responsible for keeping our joints, health and eyes healthy) naturally-occurring HA and collagen can start to decrease over time through aging and exposure to UV, free radicals and pollution. Luckily, products containing hyaluronic acid can help maintain your skin’s elasticity and help your skin retain its moisture.

Ahead, you’ll find everything you need to know about this trendy skincare ingredient, including how to implement it into your skincare routine. 

What is Hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring sugar molecule found in your body that helps water bind to collagen. Hyaluronic acid is one of the things that keeps your skin plump, dewey and hydrated. When it comes to skincare, hyaluronic acid is used as a powerful humectant since it is capable of drawing moisture from its surroundings. Not only does it help create a barrier against sensitive skin and harsh elements like extreme weather and pollution, but it provides the skin with some much-needed elasticity which contributes to firm, supple skin. 

Benefits of hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine:

Adding Hyaluronic acid to your routine can help:

Prevent wrinkles: Many anti-aging serums contain hyaluronic acid since it can help support skin elasticity and keep skin firm and plump. Keeping skin hydrated can also help diminish fine lines and wrinkles since these can appear more noticeable on dehydrated skin.

Protect skin: Hyaluronic acid is an antioxidant-rich humectant, and can be used to shield sensitive skin from sun exposure and harsh weather.

Keep skin hydrated: This powerful humectant can keep skin moisturized without stripping the skin of its natural oils. If you have dry skin that needs to be replenished, you might want to consider adding products containing this humectant into your routine since it essentially works as a magnet for attracting moisture to your skin. 

How to add Hyalruonic acid to your skincare routine:

You can add hyaluronic acid to your skincare routine through:

Face mists: Spritzing your face with a mist or spray that contains this key ingredient can help protect and hydrate your sensitive skin. Sahara Rose’s Sacred Energy Radiance Mist contains hyaluronic acid in addition to aloe vera and rosewater.

Moisturizers: Hyaluronic acid is commonly found in moisturizers, lotions and eye creams that target dry skin since it can easily penetrate the skin. Since it is lightweight, it can hydrate your skin without leaving residue that might clog your pores.

Serums: This ingredient plays very well with most ingredients, so you can integrate it into your routine even if you are currently using other acids or medication. Be sure to talk to your dermatologist about which products might affect your skin if you are using hyaluronic acid.