If you’re interested in skincare, you’ve probably heard of hyaluronic acid. But you might not be sure how to use it, if it’s right for you, or how to fit it into your skincare routine.
In this article written by Zainab Danjuma at Evolve Organic Beauty (one of our favorite brands here at Glimja), Evolve’s founder Laura Rudoe answers all questions about hyaluronic acid and explains how to best benefit from this amazing molecule on your skin.
What is hyaluronic acid?
You might think hyaluronic acid is one of the skincare acids people talk about; like BHA, AHA, and glycolic acid, which exfoliate and increase cell turnover. But it is not.
Although hyaluronic acid plumps your skin and makes it look beautifully “glowing,” it does so in a completely different way.
It is actually not an “acid” at all. Hyaluronic acid is instead a sugar-based gel-type molecule that can hold an enormous amount of water – up to 1000 times its own weight, to be exact.
It is a moisturizing agent (an ingredient that draws moisture from the air around to the skin). This makes it perfect for hydrating the skin.
Despite its name, hyaluronic acid is actually a very gentle ingredient, suitable for everyone, even people with sensitive skin.
Where is hyaluronic acid found?
One of the things that makes hyaluronic acid so effective in skincare is that it is naturally produced by the body. It is found in skin, tendons, and blood vessels.
About 50% of the hyaluronic acid naturally found in the body is in the skin, where it works to speed up tissue repair by increasing cell metabolism and forming a gel-like layer around the cells.
However, as we age, the amount stored in our bodies decreases – by age 50, it’s possible that the body’s hyaluronic acid reserves have dropped by 50%.
This is one of the reasons why our skin tends to become drier and duller as we get older, since new skin cells are not produced as quickly.
Because of this, we look for external sources of hyaluronic acid to “replenish” our natural reserves.
Moreover, you don’t have to wait until you see signs of aging to get started; hyaluronic acid is excellent for skin at any age.
What are the main benefits of hyaluronic acid?
It is scientifically proven that using hyaluronic acid topically, as a serum or cream, helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But hydration is not the only benefit this wonderful molecule provides.
Hyaluronic acid can help protect the skin against UVB radiation, which in turn prevents sun spots, wrinkles, and skin damage.
Evolve Organic Beauty uses two different types of hyaluronic acid in their products – low and very low molecular weight.
While low molecular weight is more than enough for hydration, very low molecular weight penetrates even deeper into the skin layers and is even more effective for pro-aging.
It not only forms a protective layer on the skin but also fights free radicals caused by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. This means free radicals don’t get a chance to attack your skin, leaving it calmer, clearer, and with fewer imperfections.
It is from this knowledge that Laura Rudoe created her favorite product; Daily Defence Moisture Mist.
Evolve has designed it so it can be sprayed onto the skin, delivering a dose of protective ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, that makes the skin look refreshed and radiant.
Keep it in the fridge for the perfect hydration boost on warm days. It is also good for protecting against the effects of external pollutants, which can cause signs of premature aging.
Another big favorite is Evolve Organic Beauty's 360 Eye and Lip Contour, which is a nourishing eye and lip cream. It has an advanced formulation including low molecular weight hyaluronic acid that helps reduce wrinkles and dark circles.
Hyaluronic acid is a moisturizer, not a moisturizing cream.
Hyaluronic acid does not retain moisture in the skin. Imagine your skin as a sponge. If you fill it with water, it becomes plump and spongy. However, if you let it dry out, it will soon return to being dry.
Hyaluronic acid basically works like the water in a sponge; it fills and draws moisture from the air. Hyaluronic acid thus helps to add moisture to the skin and helps the skin become more hydrated.
On the other hand, it does not help the skin retain moisture. For that, you can complement with face creams, serums, and oils. If you stop using hyaluronic acid, you will therefore stop seeing the benefits.
How does hyaluronic acid work in skincare?
Many hyaluronic acid molecules are too large to penetrate the skin's surface. However, this is not a bad thing. The acid creates a protective film that improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Evolve Organic Beauty's Hyaluronic Serum 200 is, however, somewhat different; the lower molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid Evolve uses means it can penetrate deeper into the skin, which in turn allows the skin to be hydrated even more effectively.
It also supports the skin's collagen production, which helps keep the skin elastic and firm, giving a more youthful appearance.
Doctors and dermatologists often use hyaluronic acid as a biodegradable filler because of how harmoniously it works with the body's natural functions.
They usually apply it to cheeks, lips, and under the eyes to reduce signs of aging, but you don’t need injections to enjoy its benefits.
Which skin type benefits the most from hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid suits all skin types and everyone benefits from it.
Can those with oily skin use hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid does not oversaturate oily skin because it regulates how much moisture the skin needs. It can actually reduce excess oil production by rebalancing the skin’s moisture needs.
Hyaluronic acid also has natural soothing properties, so if you suffer from breakouts or redness, it will calm your skin while hydrating it.
Evolve Organic Beauty's True Balance Gel Cream is designed for oily and breakout-prone skin and uses hyaluronic acid to provide a dose of non-greasy hydration, while the other ingredients work to balance oil production and keep the skin calm.
Is hyaluronic acid safe for sensitive skin and skin with eczema?
Yes, sensitive skin and people with conditions like eczema and rosacea can use hyaluronic acid without worrying about reactions.
A recent study actually found that when combined with proteoglycan and collagen, it helps restore the skin’s surface and reduce itching and sensitivity.
Is hyaluronic acid good for dry skin?
Absolutely. In a 2014 study, participants used topical hyaluronic acid in various forms, including lotion, serum, and cream. The study results showed an increase in skin hydration of up to 96% after 8 weeks of use across the different types, regardless of the delivery method.
It helps the skin retain moisture and can even reduce inflammation and tenderness by supporting the skin’s natural healing process (reducing skin cracks caused by dryness), as shown in a 2016 study.
Is hyaluronic acid effective for aging skin?
As you age, you lose elasticity and definition in the skin. The skin becomes less smooth, the texture coarser, and fine lines become more prominent.
Firstly, regular use of a good hyaluronic acid serum helps protect the skin against free radicals and pollution, reducing early signs of aging.
Studies have also shown that hyaluronic acid serums can help reduce skin unevenness and increase skin elasticity, effectively turning back the clock. This effect is significant, although not permanent.
In another 2014 study, participants applied hyaluronic acid topically twice daily for eight weeks. It showed a 40% reduction in wrinkle depth and up to a 55% increase in skin firmness and elasticity compared to participants who did not apply the acid.
How do I use hyaluronic acid in my daily routine?
It depends on which skincare products you use. Moisturizer and serum are two of the most common forms of hyaluronic acid.
Moisturizer
Use a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid at least twice a day, morning and evening, always after cleansing, exfoliating, or applying serum.
Here you can find Evolve Organic Beauty's Daily Renew Facial Cream and Evolve Organic Beauty's Multi Peptide 360 Anti-Ageing Cream, both fantastic facial creams with hyaluronic acid plus much more.
Serum
A hyaluronic acid serum is best used after cleansing. Before drying your face, pat a few drops in with your palms.
Apply a nourishing moisturizer immediately afterward to lock in all the hydration. Hyaluronic acid works well with most common skincare ingredients, even acid-based ones.
Moisturizers and oil-based serums contain oils that help repair the skin's barrier layer, sealing in moisture and preventing it from evaporating. Most people (unless they have very oily skin) need more moisture and oil.
The most effective method may be to first use a water-based serum to help it penetrate deeper into the skin, then apply an oil-based serum on top, followed by a facial cream to seal in moisture.
How often can I use hyaluronic acid?
Evolve recommends applying hyaluronic acid twice a day, morning and evening.
When can I see results from using hyaluronic acid?
You can see immediate results from your serum or cream, but they will fade. As with most types of skincare, the best results are usually seen within four to six weeks of consistent use.
Does my diet affect the production of hyaluronic acid in the body?
Since hyaluronic acid is produced by the body, it can be increased by eating certain foods. There is some evidence that starchy root vegetables can boost production, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and Jerusalem artichokes.
If you're craving something a bit more refreshing, try a citrus fruit: they contain naringenin, which prevents the breakdown of hyaluronic acid in the body. Fruits high in naringenin include oranges, bananas, grapefruits, and tomatoes.
Finally, unsurprisingly, leafy green vegetables top the list. They contain magnesium, which aids the body's production of hyaluronic acid.
The article is written by Zainab Danjuma with responses from Laura Rudoe, founder of the brand Evolve Organic Beauty´
