Find out what hyaluronic acid is, how it works on the skin, when to apply it, and why it has become one of the most powerful ingredients of facial care. A close and natural guide to its properties, benefits and how to include it in your daily routine.
What exactly is hyaluronic acid and why do we need it.
Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that is found naturally in our skin, in the joints and even in the eyes. Its main function is to retain water, and it does so in an impressive way: it can hold up to a thousand times its weight in water. Thanks to that, it keeps the skin hydrated, elastic and with that fresh look that we like so much.
The problem is that with the passage of time, the sun, the stress and the bad habits, the level of natural hyaluronic acid begins to decrease, the skin is more dry, more dull, and with less firmness.
Therefore, when you incorporate it into your routine, what you do is give back to the skin a part of what it has been losing over the years, and that shows.
Where does hyaluronic acid come from?
A few years ago, the hyaluronic acid that was used in cosmetics was extracted from animal tissues, especially from rooster crests. Luckily, that has changed. Today, it is obtained by biotechnological methods from natural fermentations, that is, there are totally vegan and sustainable versions, which have nothing of animal origin and work the same or better.
I like to look for products that indicate that its hyaluronic acid is plant fermentation or biotechnological. They are usually more respectful with the skin, especially if you have it sensitive or tender to get irritated.
Properties of hyaluronic acid, the ingredient that hydrates from within.
Deep, long-lasting hydration.
Hyaluronic acid acts as a sponge that attracts and retains water in the skin. The feeling when you apply it is immediate freshness, without fat or heaviness.
Since I use it, I notice my skin more elastic and comfortable, it is as if it were satisfied with water and staying calm throughout the day.
Natural filling effect.
It is not an aesthetic filling like the ones that are injected, but it does soften the fine lines and improve the texture. It is as if the skin is “filled” from the inside out thanks to deep hydration.
It does not erase wrinkles, but it makes them notice less, and that already makes a difference.
regenerates and protects.
Another of its great properties is that it helps strengthen the natural barrier of the skin. When your skin is well hydrated, the skin defends itself better from cold, heat, pollution, or temperature changes. In addition, a strong barrier prevents water loss and maintains balance.
Suitable for all skin types.
Best of all, hyaluronic acid is universal, it can be used by any type of skin, even the most sensitive or acne. It doesn’t clog pores or leave shine, and that makes it very easy to include in any routine.
How hyaluronic acid works on the skin.
It is often believed that hyaluronic acid “hydrates” on its own, but in reality what it does is retain water and keep it where the skin needs it. Imagine a sponge that absorbs moisture and keeps it just under the skin’s surface, that’s exactly what hyaluronic acid does.
Well-hydrated skin not only looks better, it also responds better to other ingredients. That is why it is so recommended to use hyaluronic acid before other active ingredients such as vitamin C or retinol: it helps them act more effectively.
How and when to use hyaluronic acid correctly.
This is where the secret is. It is not enough to have a good product, you have to apply it in the right way so that it really works.
step by step to apply it well.
- Cleanse your face with a mild cleanser. The skin should be clean, but not tight.
- Apply hyaluronic acid with still wet skin. This step is key, if the skin is dry, it can do the opposite effect and dry it out. I usually sprinkle some rose water before the serum.
- Seal with your favorite moisturizer. It is important to ‘encapsulate’ moisture and prevent it from evaporating.
- If you use exfoliating acids, apply them first and wait a few minutes before putting the serum on.
When to apply it in the routine.
Hyaluronic acid can be used both day and night. In the morning, I apply it right after the toner and before the sunscreen. At night, I use it after cleansing the skin and before my most nourishing cream.
Types of hyaluronic acid, which one to choose according to your skin.
Not all products are the same, and the difference is in the type of molecules they contain.
High molecular weight hyaluronic acid.
This acts on the surface of the skin, forming a layer that prevents the water from evaporating. It gives an immediate feeling of softness and comfort.
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid.
It penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin, moisturizes it from within and improves elasticity.
Combined or multilayer hyaluronic acid.
Some products combine different sizes of molecule, to hydrate in several layers at once. They are my favorites, because the effect is noticeable both in the short and long term.
visible benefits with constant use.
What I like most about hyaluronic acid is that the results are quite fast, but also improve over time. In a few days, the skin looks softer and more flexible, in a few weeks, more luminous and, with the months, stronger and more uniform.
Here are some of the most common changes:
- Smoother texture and cooler appearance.
- Decrease of fine lines.
- Less tightness and greater elasticity.
- More resistant and balanced skin.
It is as if the skin feels more comfortable within itself.
Common mistakes when using hyaluronic acid.
Although it seems simple, there are small mistakes that can make it not work as it should.
Apply it to dry skin.
Hyaluronic acid needs moisture to act. If you apply it to dry skin, it will absorb the one you already have and you will notice more dryness.
Do not seal with a cream.
This error is very common. Hyaluronic acid does not replace the moisturizer, but works together with it, therefore, you always have to seal the hydration after the serum.
Use too much.
With a few drops is enough, applying more doesn’t make it work better, you just waste product.
Frequently asked questions about hyaluronic acid.
Does hyaluronic acid exfoliate the skin?
No, even if it has the word “acid”, it does not exfoliate. It is a moisturizer, which means it attracts water, not to eliminate dead cells.
Can I use it with vitamin C or retinol?
Yes, perfectly. In fact, it helps reduce the possible irritation caused by these assets.
From what age can it be used?
From the age of 20 or 25 you can already incorporate it without problem. There is no need to wait until you have wrinkles to hydrate the skin.
What is better, serum or cream?
It depends on the type of skin. The serums are lighter and absorb quickly, the creams hydrate more and seal the hydration. I combine both and it works great for me.
Are oily skin and hyaluronic acid compatible?
Totally, moisturizing oily skin prevents more sebum from producing. Just look for formulas without oils.
How to choose a good serum or cream with hyaluronic acid.
When you look at the labels, notice that hyaluronic acid or sodium hyaluronate appear among the first ingredients. That indicates that there is good concentration.
Look for formulas with different molecular weights and, if possible, with ingredients such as panthenol or niacinamide, which enhance hydration.
I prefer dark or matte glass containers, since they better protect the product from light and air.
My personal experience with hyaluronic acid.
After trying many ingredients, I can say without hesitation that hyaluronic acid is one of the best results for me. I use it every day, without fail, and my skin feels fresher, more elastic and less dull. Even on days of stress or tiredness, it still has that healthy aspect that I had trouble keeping before.
I no longer have that feeling of tightness when I wake up, and I hardly need makeup. It is as if the skin has balanced and knows how to stay alone.
Constancy and affection, the real secret.
Hyaluronic acid is not magic, but it is one of the best allies to have healthy and beautiful skin. His power is in perseverance, not in quantity. Careful skin is not achieved in a day, but little by little, with real routines and with love. If you haven’t tried it yet, I encourage you to do so.
Your skin does not need perfection, it needs attention and patience. Tell me in the comments if you already use it, how it works for you or what doubts you have, I will love to read you!
