Hyaluronic Acid: Benefits, Uses, and Method of Application

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Our body is always looking for ways to encourage new cell regeneration. But the skin is one of the first senses to show signs of aging with effects like sagging, wrinkles, fine lines, and fading tone. That is why hyaluronic acid is packed in moisturizers to help fight these effects.

Aging is a natural physiological change that happens to every living thing. We as humans are not overly welcome to it. That is why we look for cosmetic and beauty products to help mask our aging effects. You can’t change your aging process, but you can reduce the signs of aging.

There are lots of treatments to help reduce the signs mostly in formats like lotions, serums, and moisturizers. Some of these anti-aging cosmetics contain hyaluronic acid to help ease the aging effects.

This article will delve into what hyaluronic acid is and why we need it, and how safe it is as an ingredient in products.

Shopping Guide

Hyaluronic acid moisturizer

Most moisturizers with hyaluronic acid are anti-aging products to reduce the effects of aging. No one can stop aging but they sure can look good aging. So if you are interested in moisturizers like that, you have to know the characteristics of the acid and its effects on the body. This section of the article will help you do that.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Best believe it when we tell you hyaluronic acid is a compound found in the tissues of the body. It belongs to the carbohydrate family and performs the function of pulling water or moisture from the air to the skin. The molecule is usually found in the skin and acts as an absorbent sponge, keeping your skin moist everyday.

Hyaluronic acid also acts as a lubricant between our joints. It serves as a major component in the synovial fluid in the synovial joints. Hyaluronic acid does more than keep our skin moisturized. It has numerous other functions but it can be said to be the MVP of skincare, just like retinol oil.

External effects like heat, free radicals, and some chemical reactions are known to cause the degradation of the acid in our body.

How does hyaluronic acid work?

When it comes to the skin, hyaluronic acids have the primary function of attracting water to the skin from the air. The water molecules help to hydrate the skin, therefore hyaluronic acids serve as a molecule. It has the unique ability to attract 1000x its water weight. This is why it is highly sought out in the cosmetic industry.

The acid plays an important role when it comes to the regeneration of the superficial layers of the skin and tissues. It helps to heal wounds faster because of its absorbent feature. Not only that, but it also aids the repair of connective tissues and joints. It can also be injected into the skin as a filler to make the skin plump.

What health benefits does hyaluronic acid have?

What you’ll be getting from hyaluronic acid is hydration because it attracts water to the skin. Not only does it do this, but it also helps to facilitate collagen synthesis. This is why it is good in anti-aging cosmetic products. You can fight signs of aging like sagging, wrinkles, fine lines, and others. This is because the acid molecule is a catalyst for collagen synthesis.

You can also use hyaluronic acid as filler in the skin, especially for lip suction and also the cheeks. These areas are known to lose volume overtime but with hyaluronic acid, they can get back the volume.

Hyaluronic acid is known to be safe and non-irritating to the skin. It is good for all skin types because they are natural molecules already existing in the skin and joints. This is why it is safe and can be bought at any drug store or over-the-counter.

Hyaluronic acid is not only meant to cater to cosmetic uses. But it can also be used for many things and it comes in multiple forms of use. It can be used topically, orally, and injected into the body.

What are the treatments available for hyaluronic acid?

Filling gel for plastic surgery

To find out what hyaluronic acid is and what it can do, many products have been developed with a focus on this compound. Cosmetic products come in many forms, and as mentioned above, hyaluronic acid is multiple formatted. Due to its safe use, it has been tried in many treatments which have shown positive feedback.

The common forms hyaluronic acid comes in are lotions, serums, moisturizers. They are used topically and are non-invasive to the body. The only thing about these treatments is that they are not immediately noticeable. It takes a while for the effects to kick in because of its non-invasive attributes.

Hyaluronic acid can also come as injection serums that are used as fillers for cosmetic procedures. This is one of the forms that are becoming more and more popular within the cosmetic industry. The serum can be injected to fill out wrinkles and expression lines. Also, it makes the cheeks look and improves the plumpness of the lips. The result with injection is usually instant but it is more invasive than the other types of treatment.

Also, hyaluronic acid can be taken orally as a supplement. It helps to improve the skin and help in lubricating the joints.

Why should I mix hyaluronic with moisturizers?

It is usually recommended that when you buy hyaluronic acid, you should mix it with a moisturizer. This is because a moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid can better fight anti-aging agents. The result may be slow but it gives a pleasant experience, it is affordable and also simple to use. The treatment begins its slow work immediately the product containing the acid is applied to the skin and absorbed.

It is already known that hyaluronic acids can take 1000x their weight when it comes to retaining water. This is why using it as a moisturizer is also good, because it absorbs directly into the skin.  

A mixture of moisturizer and hyaluronic acid contains what?

Naturally, a moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid has the acid as its major component. However, the composition of a moisturizer varies in concentration. This varying concentration affects the efficacy of the product. The concentration of hyaluronic acid is also affected by the other ingredients and their level of concentration.

Some anti-aging moisturizers have components like anti-wrinkle agents or other active ingredients to complement hyaluronic acid. You can find ingredients like elastin, collagen, coenzyme Q10, and mineral oils making up the composition of a moisturizer. How these ingredients are combined is what will determine the strength of the formula and its effectiveness.

However, some moisturizers contain zero anti-aging agents. These moisturizers’ major aim is to keep the skin healthy, hydrated, and smooth. You can add hyaluronic acid to make such moisturizers work better and faster.

Also, some irritating components in a moisturizer that are not anti-aging agents such as parabens, alcohol, and perfumes might not work well with hyaluronic acid. This is why you have to check the ingredients list before buying any moisturizing cream or lotion.

When is the best time to add hyaluronic acid to my skincare routine?

Beautiful-black-woman

Most moisturizers with hyaluronic acid can be categorized as anti-aging products. But if you are wondering when to start using this anti-aging cosmetic product, you have to figure out when wrinkles start developing.

We know that collagen and elastin synthesis starts depleting after the age of 30. And over time wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin start to appear. Therefore, it is recommended you start using moisturizers with hyaluronic acid in your 30s.

It is around this age that the skin starts to reflect more the changes in our body. And the sooner you add this to your routine, the better chance hyaluronic acid has to fight the aging agents.  This will benefit you in the long run.

Before you consider when to use the moisturizer with the acid, you have to take note of the characteristics of your skin. For instance, you should avoid using it when your skin is still actively regenerating as it should. Anti-aging creams are also not good for young skins and the compounds in them are not yet needed for younger ages.

How should I apply hyaluronic acid?

You have to apply the product correctly to get your desired result. For moisturizers and other topical treatments, the product containing the acid can be applied to the five points of the face. Which are the forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks. You can then spread the treatment in a circular motion to other parts of the face. You can add the neckline to your application area. But you should avoid the contours of the eye because they are delicate.

As an injectable, hyaluronic acid also focuses on the focal areas of the face to fill and add volume. Hyaluronic acid in gel form is most acceptable and must be done by a licensed professional or a cosmetic doctor. Oral supplements should be taken according to guidelines or instructions of the manufacturer or your doctor recommending them.

Are there differences between hyaluronic acid creams and serums?

There are different ways hyaluronic acid can be applied topically. You can use it as a cream or a serum. Both can be used by applying the product to your skin and spreading evenly. They also fall under the non-invasive category. However, the serum and cream have different application procedures.

Serums have a lighter consistency and can be absorbed quickly because they contain little oil. They are also concentrated with active agents to make them more effective than creams. A serum’s function is to moisturize and nourish the skin by tackling the innermost layers of the skin. That is at the dermis level, which is the second skin layer.

Creams on the other hand superficially hydrate the skin on the epidermis level. They also help to free up wrinkles, uniform the face tone, reduce the size of pimples and help create a firmer and softer skin texture. The two have different functions but they work to improve the skin. They are best paired together to get a hydrating effect on skincare.

Will I have any adverse effect when I use hyaluronic acid?

The good thing about moisturizers with hyaluronic acid is that they are most likely safe. They can be non-invasive to the skin when used topically. The body already produces natural hyaluronic acid, so the synthetic one is likely to cause such side effects. The only possible side effect is allergies, but this is rare too.

Allergies caused by the moisturizer’s ingredients are not rare. They can irritate the body.

On the other hand, hyaluronic acid gel for injections may cause reactions because it is invasive. The person taking the shot might experience redness, pain, or bruising. But allergies are rare for this case too.

What are the pros and cons of moisturizers with hyaluronic acid?

Before shopping for your moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, you have to be aware of the pros and cons that come with the product. Though it is very safe for skincare, there are some side effects one might experience while using the product. Here is the list of pros and cons of hyaluronic acid:

Pros

  • It keeps the body hydrated
  • The acid has a rejuvenating effect on wounds
  • It is pleasant to the skin when applied
  • Hyaluronic acids are very affordable and can be bought over-the-counter
  • It clears out sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines
  • It enhances collagen and elasticity in the skin.

Cons

  • You can experience side effects if you are allergic to ingredients in the moisturizer.
  • It is highly irritating when it contacts the eyes.

Shopping Criteria

Applying hyaluronic acid moisturizer

Having all the information you need about hyaluronic acids in moisturizers, you are ready to purchase your very own. Before you do that, there are some criteria you have to take into consideration. These criteria will influence your final buying decision and the product you settle with. The criteria will also match you with the best product that suits you.

Age

As we age our choice of cosmetic products also changes. Age is an important factor when it comes to moisturizers with hyaluronic acid. Also, the concentration of the ingredients in moisturizers will differ when we are in our 30s from when we are in our 60s.

For instance, the skin starts regenerating slowly from our 30s. It is best to start using anti-aging products with little to mild concentration in the acid. As we shift from the 30s to 40s and 50s, the concentration increases because by then natural acid molecules in the skin are depleting.

If you are young with still bouncing skin, you can try these skincare tips to give you nice glowing skin.

Skin Type

No two persons are born with the same skin but they can be categorized under the same type based on their characteristics. Anti-aging products should also be fitted to work for each skin type. For instance, dry skin needs all the moisture and hydration it can get. Oils like jojoba and argan oil can be used as part of the ingredients.

Meanwhile, oily skin should buy moisturizers that have non-comedogenic pro properties that would increase sebum production. Sensitive skins should avoid products with harsh ingredients too.

Desired Results

What ultimately influences your buying choice is the desired result you wish to achieve. Since there are endless choices in the cosmetic market, you should choose a product that will best suit you. For instance, you can purchase a simple moisturizer if you aim to clear and smoother your skin.

You can opt for a moisturizer with hyaluronic and anti-aging properties if you want to clear your wrinkles, fine lines, and even out your skin tone. And you can go for specified moisturizers that offer not only activating solutions but others. You can go for such a product if it fits with what you want.

Composition

You to always be sure of the composition of the cosmetic products you buy. The composition of a moisturizer will determine the efficacy of the product. Also, it will determine the concentration of hyaluronic acid. If other active anti-aging properties are present in a moisturizer, always check the names and concentration level. That way you will be aware of any possible adverse effects.

For hypersensitive skins, you have to review the composition to be sure you won’t get irritation or redness reactions from the product. But moisturizers with hyaluronic acids are mostly safe. They do not pose a threat to the skin.

Quality

To get the best of any product you have to be sure of Its quality. The skin, most especially our face is always exposed. That is why we not only have to protect it but also use products that will do so. You have to buy moisturizers that are of good quality to protect your vulnerable face.

For example, you can lean on products from good and known brands. You can also buy products that are certified by dermatologists or check. You can review the composition to also know the quality you will be getting.

Hyaluronic acid

Recommended Hyaluronic Acid Products

1. Best Hyaluronic Acid for Dry Skin

Neutrogena offers a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and moisturizes dry skin. The water-gel solution is also rich in glycerin which also boosts hydration of the skin tissues. You can use the moisturizer without having to feel irritated because it is fragrance and parabens-free. With the 1.7 fluid ounce, you can boost your skin’s level and also stay hydrated all day.

2. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum

If you want to keep your skin always hydrated, use Cosmedica Skincare Hyaluronic acid. The unscented product is great for oily and sensitive skins that get easily irritated. You can use the serum to improve your skin’s tone and also brighten it. The formula is 100% pure hyaluronic acid that also provides anti-aging properties.

3. Best Hyaluronic Acid Powder

Coming in a 25 and 50 grams bottle, Nutricost Hyaluronic acid helps to keep the joints and skin smooth and hydrated. It keeps the skin nourished. The powder is also gluten-free and of very high quality. The smallest bottle which is 25 grams costs about $24.

4. Best Anti-Aging Hyaluronic Acid

At $20, Sanar natural’s anti-aging hyaluronic acid provides a hydrating effect for those experiencing aging on their skin. The serum works for all skin types and is also combined with collagen to boost elasticity and skin shine. You can clear wrinkles and fine lines with the serum and also keep the skin bright and firm.

The serum’s formula is supercharged with hyaluronic acid that is lightweight to the skin and can last the whole day without reapplication. Your skin’s health will receive a natural boost with the product.

Summary

Aging is a physiological process we all have to go through as part of life. But we can minimize the aging effects by using moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acids are molecules found in the skin that attracts water or moisture 1000x its weight.

The acid is good for keeping moisture in the skin. It also hydrates and rejuvenates the skin when damaged. Moisturizers with hyaluronic acid can clear wrinkles, sagging skin, and fine lines. This is because the acid helps to enhance collagen and elastin production in the skin. It is one of the safest products to use because it’s already in the skin.

You can use the product to fight aging agents. And the best way to start is early. If you are in your 30s, you can start a daily use of the moisturizer with hyaluronic acid. The effects on the skin will start showing immediately.

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