Hyaluronic acid is a substance found naturally in the human body and is beneficial for both skin and joint health. It has numerous anti-aging properties, which is why it’s widely used in skincare products.

Using hyaluronic acid (HA) regularly can improve the quality of the skin and decrease signs of skin aging.1 Research has shown that the use of HA more than once per day enhances skin benefits.1

HA is a naturally occurring substance within our bodies that helps lubricate and hydrate the skin by assisting the transfer of water and essential skin-strengthening nutrients across cells.

HA plays a significant role in contributing to our skin’s moisture and plumpness.

Unfortunately, the loss of our body’s internal production of this substance begins as early as our 20s.1 Not only does our rate of HA production slow as we age, but outside factors can also impact how our skin looks and feels.

Some of these factors include environmental conditions like:

• excessive UV ray exposure,
• lifestyle habits like poor diet, smoking, lack of exercise,
• unmanaged stresses,
• and certain diseases.1

Many individuals look to cosmetic products and procedures to fight the effects of aging. However, it’s essential that the treatments and products used are backed by research. The benefits of hyaluronic acid use include

• increased moisture and hydration,
• skin elasticity,
• looking refreshed,
• and reduced fine lines and wrinkles.1

While hyaluronic acid is the most popular injectable dermal filler ingredient, benefits also exist when using it topically.

Applying HA to the skin can improve skin moisture and elasticity, and when paired with other evidence-based ingredients, can help protect against the signs of aging.1

In a recent study comparing the effects of using an HA serum with Botox vs a control group that only used Botox, the HA group experienced greater improvements in their skin.1

Both groups also received sunscreen with SPF 50 to use daily as this is critical for healthy skin no matter the product or treatment.

Hyaluronic acid exists at different molecular weights – low or high, both serving a beneficial purpose for the skin. For example, high-weight HA molecules do not permeate the skin and therefore help hydrate the skin’s outer layers.1

Conversely, lower-weight HA molecules have increased permeability and thus reach deeper layers.1

In general, hyaluronic acid molecules have strong water absorption properties and increase hydration in all layers of the skin.1 The use of various molecular weights of HA can provide the greatest skin improvements.1