Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a passing trend, but an active ingredient that should be a staple in your skincare routine. It’s thought that our bodies lose around 1% of their natural hyaluronic acid levels every year, leading to a loss of skin elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles (1). That’s why adding this ingredient back into the skin can help to slow down the signs of ageing.
Read on to discover what hyaluronic acid is, the hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid, and the best skincare formulated with the anti-ageing ingredient.
WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan (a carbohydrate molecule) naturally present in the intercellular spaces of the dermis and throughout the body. It’s the main component that gives the skin structure and a youthful-looking, plump appearance.
WHAT DOES HYALURONIC ACID DO?
In addition to moisturising and protecting the skin from external aggressors, hyaluronic acid is also a powerful humectant, a substance that binds to water molecules to retain moisture in the skin and joints. Filorga’s best skincare can retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water (2), helping to rebuild the skin’s structure and maintain its tone and elasticity.
HYALURONIC ACID BENEFITS FOR THE SKIN
- Locks in hydration
- Prevents moisture loss
- Plumps the skin
- Helps to reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Increases skin elasticity
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF HYALURONIC ACID
There are different types of hyaluronic acids that differ in size and concentrations – and consequently offer different benefits to the skin. The lower the molecular weight, the deeper the molecules can typically penetrate the skin.
HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT HYALURONIC ACID
This form of hyaluronic acid has the largest molecule size. It acts on the surface of the epidermis to form a non-occlusive protective film, helping to retain water in the cells and maintain skin hydration.
LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT HYALURONIC ACID
This is a micro-molecule that penetrates deep into the skin thanks to its small size. It acts in the layers of the epidermis, helping to boost collagen production and plump the skin from the inside.
HYALURONIC ACID SIDE EFFECTS
Hyaluronic acid is generally safe for all skin types. Though hyaluronic acid is slightly acidic and falls at 5.0 to 8.0 on the pH scale, the skin typically sits between 4.5 and 6.0, making it a gentle match.
HOW TO USE HYALURONIC ACID IN YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
Like most skincare products, best results will be seen if you use hyaluronic acid both morning and night as part of your skincare routine, applying in order of thinnest to richest products.
APPLYING A HYALURONIC ACID SERUM
The Filorga HYDRA-HYAL Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Serum is a gel-like soft and non-sticky formula that hosts all the power of pure hyaluronic acid in a concentrated serum
It’s infused with 5 hyaluronic acids for instantly hydrated, plumped and smoother skin.