In the skin, hyaluronic acid acts as a moisture reserve that helps keep skin bouncy and supple. The body makes less of it with age, so skin can lose hydration, volume and elasticity. Sun and dry air can also deplete it.
Applied in skincare, hyaluronic acid holds moisture in the upper layers. Skin feels softer and looks plumper, and fine lines caused by dryness become less visible.
In ingredient lists it usually appears as sodium hyaluronate, the salt form. Different molecule sizes behave slightly differently. Larger molecules sit on the surface and hydrate instantly, while smaller ones hold moisture a little deeper in the outer layer. Crosslinked hyaluronic acid (crosspolymer) forms a longer-lasting moisture film.
How to use: Apply to slightly damp skin, morning and evening, and seal with a moisturiser. The cream helps keep in the moisture that hyaluronic acid draws in.
Good to know: Hyaluronic acid is very gentle and suits all skin types. It pairs well with almost every other active.