What does Hyaluronic Acid Do?
Put simply - hyaluronic acid hydrates.
Although it contains no water, a single hyaluronic acid molecule can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water. This means that hyaluronic acid is able to aid in cellular turnover & help skin cells migrate through the layers of epidermis. Because of these properties, hyaluronic acid also assists in repairing damaged tissue.
Hyaluronic acid doesn't just provide hydration - it also helps protect from free radical damage and can increase the presence of Vitamin A in the skin.
Why Should I use a Hyaluronic Acid Serum?
As you may gather from the previous section, there are numerous benefits to adding a HA serum to your daily skincare. These include:
- Increased cell rejuvenation, which gives the appearance of younger skin
- Support to collagen production & skin elasticity
- Helps to prevent & reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Speeds up wound healing
- Holds moisture in the skin tissue.
How do I use a Hyaluronic Acid Serum?
Because of the molecule size, a hyaluronic acid serum used by itself will just sit on top of the skin and draw moisture out. Obviously, this is the complete opposite of what we would like to achieve. So how can you effectively use a HA serum to benefit your skin?
The easiest way to benefit from a HA serum is to use it as an additional step to your regular skincare regimen. The serum should be used after toner, while the skin is still damp. Once a pea-sized amount has been applied to your face, follow with a moisturiser to seal the serum from the outside environment.
Another excellent use of hyaluronic acid serum is to add a drop to an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliant. As the AHA breaks down the dead skin cells, the hyaluronic acid serum is able to penetrate deeper into the skin. This method will also provide better results than a regular topical application.
In Closing...
Skincare professionals have touted hyaluronic acid as a "magic potion" for the skin, and with good reason. Hyaluronic acid is an integral part of maintaining healthy, youthful skin.
There are many brands of hyaluronic acid serums on the market to suit all budgets, and it is a product that will benefit every skin type. Just remember to always follow with a moisturiser.
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