Hyaluronic Acid: Benefits, Usage, Myths, and More

If you have searched for hydrated and radiant skin, chances are high that you have come across an extremely popular and common skincare active, hyaluronic acid. Commonly known to hydrate the skin deeply, it does a lot more.

But what exactly is this compound and why is it revered in skincare routines to target extremely dry skin, fine lines, wrinkles, or simply get a dewy skin complexion? In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about hyaluronic acid, from its scientifically proven benefits, what skin types can use it, to how you can introduce it to your skincare regimen.

What is Hyaluronic Acid 

Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body in the form of glycosaminoglycan – which is a naturally occurring sugar in the body. It is found in the connective tissues, including eyes and joints. It is primarily responsible for keeping your skin hydrated and plump. 

It is an integral part of the extracellular matrix, the system of the body responsible to maintain and support the skin structure. 

Being a powerful humectant, hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the environment and delivers it into the skin to maintain the skin's elasticity. In other words, it penetrates into the skin to bind the moisture to the cells. 

Due to its multiple benefits that we will learn later in the blog, it is widely used in skincare products, including serums, face and body washes, lotions, and moisturisers. 

The Science Behind Hyaluronic Acid 

Hyaluronic acid has the ability to retain up to 1,000 times its weight. This property helps to infuse the skin with moisture. As the humectant, hyaluronic acid doesn't only attract moisture from the environment but from the deeper layers of the skin too. 

Moreover, it works with elastin and collagen synergistically to plump the skin. But as we begin to age, hyaluronic acid production starts to decrease. At this stage, you have to be really sincere about your skin and start following a hardcore skincare routine. 

Hyaluronic acid is naturally suitable for all skin types, making it adaptable to be used in various cosmetics and skincare products. 

What is The Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Skincare 

Hyaluronic acid is beneficial for various skin problems including; 

• Hydrate your skin: The foremost and non-debatable advantage of hyaluronic acid is that it promotes intense hydration within the skin. No matter what your skin type is, hyaluronic acid is the one you always need. That is the reason for its inclusion in topical formulations for lotions, moisturisers, serums, and many more. It’s a miraculous ingredient for dehydrated and rough skin.
• Fights ageing signs: As you age, your skin can develop wrinkles due to multiple reasons. Using hyaluronic acid can make a significant difference and improve the firmness of the skin. It maintains moisture levels and prevents dehydration - which is a major reason for the signs of ageing. Furthermore, it can boost the firmness and elasticity of your skin. Elasticity is required to make your skin plump and young. 
• Heals wounds & repairs skin: Hyaluronic acid promotes wound healing by accelerating the tissue repair process. It regulates inflammation and signals the cells to rebuild the damaged tissues in the skin. It has the ability to create a hydrated environment and has antimicrobial properties to decrease the potential risk of wound infections. 
• Improves skin’s texture: In certain phases of your life, or during early ageing, you may go through some changes in your skin. These changes can come in the form of hyperpigmentation and uneven tone and texture. Hyaluronic acid uses its ability to deliver moisture to the skin and make it visibly refined and free from uneven texture. 

It’s crucial to take note that all these above-mentioned benefits can be reaped with consistency, the right way of usage, and choosing the appropriate products.  

Forms of Hyaluronic Acid 

Well, just hyaluronic acid is not enough. Your product needs the right form. But what is the most beneficial and preferred form of hyaluronic acid, and why? 

So, hyaluronic acid can be consumed topically in three major forms, including:

High molecular weight hyaluronic acid: This form doesn't penetrate the surface of the skin and simply settles there. It can create a protective layer on your skin's surface to bar moisture loss. This action of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid helps in soothing your skin. 

Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid: This is a leading option witnessed in good quality hyaluronic acid-infused products. Serving the purpose right, this form is able to penetrate the epidermis deeply and imparts long-lasting hydration. This further helps in promoting the production of collagen in the skin and regeneration of cells. 

Medium molecular weight hyaluronic acid: This form lies between high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. It can penetrate the layers of your skin but only to a limited extent. Consistent use can make a notable difference in your skin's hydration levels. 

How to Introduce Hyaluronic Acid in Your Skincare 

Introducing hyaluronic acid into your skincare regimen is a hassle-free task. All you have to do is do some basic research for a high-quality product with the right ingredients in combination. 

You must look at what percentage and form of hyaluronic acid is used, and what other actives infused that can provide additional benefits. Discussing with your dermatologist can support your skincare goals.

First of all, you must analyse your skin problems and if you need to use hyaluronic acid. Then, look for a mild cleanser. Apply a toner and wait for a few minutes. Take a few drops of hyaluronic acid serum to target your skin concerns, and end your routine with a non-greasy moisturiser. 

You can choose a hyaluronic acid serum or a moisturiser. These two are the most effective ways to reap the benefits of hyaluronic acid. When used in a serum, hyaluronic acid can dig deeper into the layers of your skin and act upon the concerns, while in a moisturiser, it can go deeper as well as lock the hydration simultaneously. 

Here, you must look for the combined ingredients in the product to see if it's compatible with your skin type. Hyaluronic acid – being at its best, suits all skin types generally. So, it’s advisable to check for other skincare active ingredients. 

Also read: Essential Skincare Guide for Beginners

Common Myths About Hyaluronic Acid 

Hyaluronic acid is not an exception when it comes to associated myths. Let’s see some of the most popular myths attached to hyaluronic acid;

Myth 1: You cannot pair hyaluronic acid with any other ingredient

Obviously, you cannot pair hyaluronic acid with all the skincare ingredients present, and taking your cosmetologist’s advice is a necessity in this scenario. However, some ingredients combine well with hyaluronic acid and complement each other. They work synergistically to target and act upon your problems. 

Myth 2: Hyaluronic acid dries out the skin.

This blame on hyaluronic acid comes from the fact that it is a hydrating agent. But that doesn’t mean it gives you those unwanted rough patches, even if used correctly. You have to be careful while using any skincare compound, and all of them can impart some side effects if you choose to be random and go unmindful. 

Myth 3: Higher concentrations of hyaluronic acid provide superior benefits.

There is no truth to this belief. You don’t need higher concentration to get your skin issues resolved. The right concentration in your product is enough. Overly concentrated hyaluronic acid serum can even draw the moisture out of your skin resulting in excessively dry skin. Moreover, excessively high concentrations can reduce the efficacy of the product. 

Can You Use Hyaluronic Acid Every Day 

The hyaluronic acid serum is considered safe to use every day due to its mild properties and adaptability to all skin types. In fact, it emerges as an ideal option to use daily. For best results, you can damp your skin before applying it. Hyaluronic acid does not irritate the skin, making it a safe option for sensitive skin. Until you are not allergic, it doesn't itch or inflame the skin. 

You are advised to talk to your dermatologist before incorporating it into your regimen. They can tell you how much concentration works for your concerns along with the best times to use it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can hyaluronic acid be used for any skin type?
   All skin types need hydration. So, yes, hyaluronic acid can be used for all skin types to lock in moisture.
   
   
2. Is it necessary to apply hyaluronic acid on the damp skin?
   If you damp your skin before using topical hyaluronic acid, it can bind the moisture effectively and help you to stay hydrated for a long time. But this is not an obligatory practice. Hyaluronic acid works with or without damping your skin. 
   
   
3. Can I use hyaluronic acid after exfoliation?
   Yes, it's a great way to treat your skin after exfoliating it. It can replenish the hydration and help counteract any excessive dryness that may be caused by exfoliation. 
   
   
4. Is hyaluronic acid safe?
   It depends upon the formulations and products you are using. Generally, hyaluronic acid is considered a safe-to-use ingredient. But you cannot go out of proportion and expect to accomplish the benefits. 
   

References

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (Volume 74, Issue 5, May 2016, Pages AB271)

MDPI International Journal of Molecular Sciences (Volume 23, Issue 18, September 2022, Article 10518)

MDPI Gels(Volume 11, Issue 1, January 2025, Article 65)

MDPI Applied Sciences(Volume 15, Issue 2, January 2025, Article 536)

Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology