Hyaluronic Acid
Also known as: Sodium Hyaluronate, HA, Hyaluronan
Overview
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. As a humectant, it draws moisture into the skin, providing intense hydration, plumping fine lines, and improving skin suppleness.
How Hyaluronic Acid Works
HA exists naturally in the skin's extracellular matrix. Topically applied, high-molecular-weight HA forms a moisture-retaining film on the skin surface. Low-molecular-weight HA (< 50 kDa) can penetrate deeper, hydrating the epidermis from within. It attracts water from both the environment and deeper skin layers.
Benefits
- • Intense hydration without heaviness or greasiness
- • Plumps fine lines and wrinkles through moisture retention
- • Suitable for all skin types including oily and acne-prone
- • Enhances absorption and efficacy of other skincare ingredients
- • Supports wound healing and skin repair
Side Effects & Cautions
- • In very dry climates, can draw moisture from deeper skin layers — best used with an occlusive on top
- • Very rarely causes irritation
- • Low-molecular-weight HA may trigger inflammation in some individuals
Who Should Use Hyaluronic Acid
Anyone seeking hydration. Particularly beneficial for dehydrated, dry, or mature skin. An excellent ingredient for layering in multi-step routines.
Who Should Avoid It
Generally safe for everyone. In very dry environments, always seal with a moisturiser to prevent trans-epidermal water loss.
Recommended Concentration
0.1% – 2%. Multi-molecular-weight formulations are generally most effective.
Scientific Evidence
3 peer-reviewed studies cited. All links lead to PubMed abstracts.
HA plays a critical role in skin hydration, and its depletion is directly associated with skin aging.
Low-molecular-weight HA (50 kDa) significantly improved skin hydration and reduced wrinkle depth.
Topical HA significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity in multiple clinical trials.
Top Hyaluronic Acid Products We've Reviewed
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Lightweight Hydrator for Skin Barrier Support & Hydration, 100ml
The Ordinary
The INKEY List 2% Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum 60ml, Hydrating Skincare, Combats Dry Skin, Vegan Friendly, Suitable For All Skin Types
The INKEY Lis
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Brightening & Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 30ml
CeraVe Moisturising Cream, Face & Body, With 3 essential ceramides & hyaluronic acid, For dry to very dry skin, 454 g/16 oz
CeraVe
Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion, 236ml, Face & Body Moisturiser, For Normal To Dry Sensitive Skin, With Niacinamide, Packaging May Vary
Cetaphil
Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Intense - Supercharged Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid Serum - Replenishes, Smooths & Plumps Skin - Ideal For Normal to Dry Skin Types - 30ml
Medik8
AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 CREAM with Ceramide, Korean Moisturiser, Korean Skincare, 120-Hour Hydrating Visible Capsule Moisturizer, Facial Cream for Dry & Sensitive Skin, Dermatologist Tested, 80mL
AESTURA
Dermatica Daily Hydration 5HA+Cica Serum – Lightweight Face Serum with 5 Types of Hyaluronic Acid, Cica & Niacinamide for Deep Hydration, Barrier Support & Plumper-Looking Skin
Dermatica
Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Face Moisturiser, 88ml, For Sensitive Skin, With Hyaluronic Acid, Packaging May Vary
Cetaphil