Few ingredients are as powerful as hyaluronic acid (HA) when it comes to achieving plump, hydrated, and youthful-looking skin.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Despite its name, hyaluronic acid is not an exfoliating acid but rather a moisture-binding molecule. This natural glycosaminoglycan is a true multi-tasker, offering intense moisturisation, anti-aging benefits, and soothing properties. Also known as hyaluronan, HA plays a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration, lubrication, and elasticity.
HA occurs naturally in the human body, with the highest concentrations found in the skin, joints, and eyes. Hyaluronic acid uniquely attracts and retains more than 1,000 times its weight in water molecules making it extremely beneficial for skin hydration and anti-aging.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-aging
As we age, our natural levels of hyaluronic acid deplete over time, leading to dryness, loss of firmness, and the development of lines and wrinkles. Replenishing the skin's supply of HA through topical application can help counteract visible signs of aging by:
- Intense hydration: It works as a humectant, drawing moisture from the environment deep into the skin, and improving elasticity and firmness. It also acts as a barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss.
- Plumps and smooths: By retaining moisture within the skin, HA helps to plump up the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This gives the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance.
- Soothing and calming: It has wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce skin irritations and conditions like eczema and rosacea.
- Compatible with all skin types: Hyaluronic acid is generally well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- Boosts efficacy of other ingredients
Versatile Uses of Hyaluronic Acid in Natural Cosmetics
The versatility of hyaluronic acid extends beyond traditional moisturisers. It can be incorporated into various natural cosmetic formulations, including:
- Serums: Hyaluronic acid serums are popular for their lightweight texture and intensive hydration. They are easily absorbed into the skin, making them ideal for layering under moisturisers.
- Face masks: Sheet masks infused with hyaluronic acid offer a quick and intensive hydration boost, leaving the skin plump and radiant.
- Moisturisers: HA is a key ingredient in natural moisturisers, lotions, and creams, ensuring long-lasting hydration without the use of heavy oils or synthetic emollients.
- Eye creams: Due to its ability to hydrate and plump delicate under-eye skin, HA is often included in natural eye creams to diminish the appearance of fine lines and puffiness.
- Makeup primers: Some natural makeup primers contain hyaluronic acid to create a smooth, hydrated base for makeup application.
Solubility
Hyaluronic acid is water soluble and will only mix with oils with an emulsifier. It works well with other water-based and water-soluble ingredients.
Concentration
We recommend keeping the HA concentration below 2 percent. HA has an exceptionally low molecular weight, which means it is easily absorbed into the epidermial layers, however, it can potentially carry other unwanted ingredients such as chemicals and bacteria more deeply into the skin.
