Hyaluronic Acid Skin Care: Benefits & How to Use It

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is one of the most recommended skincare ingredients by dermatologists thanks to its ability to hydrate and nourish the complexion. A natural humectant, hyaluronic acid works like a magnet to draw moisture to the complexion, providing deep and long-lasting hydration, which can support skin elasticity, improve texture, and promote brighter, more glowing skin.

Since hyaluronic acid is so important in skincare, it’s found in most skincare formula types, including cleansers, toners, essences, serums, and moisturizers, and it’s even found in sunscreen, making it one of the most accessible (and non-negotiable) skincare ingredients out there. And, since it’s available in a variety of forms, you can find it in both lightweight and heavy cream formulas, making it a good fit for all skin types (depending on the product), including oily and sensitive skin.

Up ahead, we dive deeper into the benefits of hyaluronic acid and discuss why it’s one of the best skincare ingredients for a variety of concerns. Plus, we look at some of our top picks for the best hyaluronic acid skincare products on Dermstore.

What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do?

The body naturally produces hyaluronic acid which is typically found in the skin, joints, and eyes. The ultra-nourishing substance attracts moisture and provides deep hydration to support the skin’s health (in addition to lubricating the eyes and joints). However, as we age, the natural production of hyaluronic acid slows down, and our skin can experience a loss of moisture, which can also contribute to less volume and less supple-looking skin.

In addition to the human body, hyaluronic acid is found in a variety of foods—including kale, sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, avocados, and almonds—which can nourish the body and skin from the inside out. When it comes to skincare with hyaluronic acid, it’s created through biotechnology from lactic acid bacteria that is then transformed into a gel-like substance.

Since hyaluronic acid is naturally created by the body and is considered a lightweight hydrator, it’s compatible with all skin types, including oily skin. That being said, it’s especially important for those with dry skin as the added dose of moisture can repair and re-hydrate dehydrated complexions.

What Are the Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

The benefits of hyaluronic acid begin with deep hydration, which comes with its own set of perks. Since hyaluronic acid attracts moisture to the skin, it can provide ample hydration, which promotes more supple skin, helps blur the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier. Through hydration, hyaluronic acid can also target dull complexions and provide a more nourished, glowing effect on the complexion, too.

Since hyaluronic acid is so nourishing, it can also help support skin healing and even reduce the look of scarring. Hyaluronic acid also supports the skin’s lipid barrier, which makes it more resilient and protects it against environmental aggressors, including pollutants. Additionally, hyaluronic acid helps soften the skin by penetrating the complexion with effective hydration and working to attract moisture throughout the day for longer-lasting results.

Hyaluronic acid is a lightweight form of hydration that can balance the skin’s sebum production, making it an excellent choice for those with oily complexions. When the skin is stripped of natural oils, sebum production kicks into high gear and can result is excess oil. To combat this, hyaluronic acid provides effective yet lightweight hydration that keeps everything balanced without going into overdrive.

Best Serums with Hyaluronic Acid

Serums are skincare ingredients that usually contain higher concentrations of one or a few skincare ingredients. They’re often used in skincare to target specific concerns or desired results such as hydration, brightening, anti-aging, and blemish control and are used after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing.

Incorporating a serum with hyaluronic acid into your skincare regimen can help ensure you not only get an extra dose of moisture but also that you receive a more potent concentration of deeply nourishing ingredients. On their own, hyaluronic acid serums are usually very lightweight—almost as lightweight as a face toner—and absorb quickly into the skin, so they’re best applied before heavier formulas like creamy serums, moisturizers, and oils.

The beauty of hyaluronic acid is that it can benefit all skin types, including oily and sensitive. That being said, when using an HA serum, make sure to check the ingredients list to ensure it doesn’t include additional ingredients that might not mix well with certain skin types. For example, oily complexions should stick with lightweight formulas that won’t trigger excess oil production, while dry skin types can use hyaluronic acid serums with a heavier, creamier consistency.