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What is hyaluronic acid? Benefits, uses and how to add it to your routine
Written byMedico Digital
Reviewed byDr Guy Ratu
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Hyaluronic acid is everywhere in skincare - but what does it actually do? From hydration to smoothness, find out why it’s earned cult status.
Summary
1What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring molecule that helps the skin retain moisture. Almost half of the body’s HA is found in the skin, where…
2Possible hyaluronic acid benefits
Hyaluronic acid is often described as a hydration hero. Research suggests it may help reduce the look of fine lines, improve firmness and boost skin…
3Is hyaluronic acid safe?
You can breathe a sigh of relief – although the name may sound a little scary, there’s evidence to show that hyaluronic acid is safe to use…
In recent years, hyaluronic acid has skyrocketed to fame as a superstar ingredient in the beauty industry. From moisturisers and skin protectors to anti-ageing creams, this alleged powerhouse seems to pop up everywhere.1 But do you really know what it is or what it does?
Whether you have stacks of skincare products in your bathroom cupboard or are looking to build a skincare routine from scratch, there’s always more to uncover and understand about the science behind their ingredients, and hyaluronic acid is no exception.
Let’s get to grips with this skincare ingredient that has everyone talking and discover how it might help to up your skincare game.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid, often referred to simply as HA, is the key molecule involved in skin moisture.2 Naturally present in your body, it’s found in abundance in your skin – almost 50% of the hyaluronic acid in your entire body is stored there.2
But as you age, the natural production of hyaluronic acid and collagen starts to decline, leading to skin dehydration and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.3
Hyaluronic acid’s unique molecular structure gives it the ability to hold approximately 1000 times its weight in water.1 So it’s thought that applying hyaluronic acid skincare products may help replenish lost moisture and combat the side effects of natural HA depletion.4
Want to find out more about how your skin changes with age? Check out how to embrace your natural beauty, whatever your age.
Possible hyaluronic acid benefits
Hyaluronic acid has earned a good reputation in the beauty community as a hydrating and anti-ageing ingredient. And now, emerging scientific evidence is starting to back up the proclaimed benefits.
While more research is needed, hyaluronic acid is already associated with a range of potential skin benefits, including:
HA has been found to play a key role in supporting the structure of collagen and elastin in the skin. But as we age, the level of HA in the skin naturally decreases, which can affect how collagen and elastin fibres sit in the skin, potentially leading to the formation of fine lines.1,3
The hydrating abilities of hyaluronic acid may help to slow down wrinkle formation and may even improve deep fine lines and wrinkles caused by the natural ageing process.1
In fact, one small study found that applying hyaluronic acid regularly to the face for eight weeks reduced visible wrinkle depth by up to 40%.5
The same study revealed that using hyaluronic acid on the skin boosted participants’ skin firmness by 55%.5 This is again due to HA’s ability to trap moisture in the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and giving it a rejuvenated and youthful glow.1,4
Dry skin can strike us all, especially during the colder winter months. If you find it tricky to quench your skin's thirst, a HA product could be the answer. Hyaluronic acid is pretty much the holy grail of skin hydration – when used for more than two weeks, it’s been shown to increase the moisture in the skin by up to 96%.5
By enhancing skin elasticity, HA not only helps to slow down wrinkle formation but can also leave your skin feeling softer, smoother and more radiant.1,5
How to use hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is most commonly used in topical form – think gels, creams and serums.
Not sure which option to go for? Explore our top picks for hyaluronic acid products to find your perfect match.
It's important to read the label of the product you’re using. Most can be applied twice a day onto damp, clean skin.
Hyaluronic acid can be used alongside other skincare staples, such as retinol and collagen, but you should always check how to use them together safely. Read our guide to learn more about skincare acids and how to incorporate them into your routine.
Is hyaluronic acid safe?
You can breathe a sigh of relief – although the name may sound a little scary, there’s evidence to show that hyaluronic acid is safe to use on the skin.4
Unlike some skincare acids, it’s also safe to use throughout pregnancy, so you don’t have to wave goodbye to skin hydration while waiting for your baby to arrive.6
Our range of hyaluronic acid products
At H&B, we have a wide range of hyaluronic acid products for you to choose from and try. From serums to creams, there’s something for every type of skincare enthusiast.
Whether you’re looking for a daily HA moisturiser to keep your skin looking fresh and glowing or award-winning natural HA serums to help hydrate your skin, browse our full hyaluronic acid collection and see the benefits of this skincare ingredient for yourself.
The final say
So, is hyaluronic really worth the hype? Emerging scientific evidence seems to back it up, and it seems this skincare ingredient could deserve its long-standing popularity.
While shaking up your skincare routine can seem daunting, adding a hyaluronic acid product can be as simple as swapping your moisturiser.
If you want to go the extra mile for your skin, but aren’t sure where to start, check out our guide to building a skincare routine. Packed full of expert-backed tips and advice, it’s designed to help you create a step-by-step skincare programme for your skin type – so you can look and feel more glowy than ever.
Disclaimer - This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Curated by experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
1. Bukhari SNA, et al. Hyaluronic acid, a promising skin rejuvenating biomedicine: A review of recent updates and pre-clinical and clinical investigations on cosmetic and nutricosmetic effects. Int J Biol Macromol. 2018;120(Pt B):1682–95. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.09.188
2. Papakonstantinou E, et al. Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermato-endocrinol. 2012;4(3):253–8. https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.21923
3. Walker K, et al. Hyaluronic acid. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482440/
4. Bravo B, et al. Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence. Dermatol Ther. 2022;35(12):e15903. https://doi.org/10.1111/dth.15903
5. Jegasothy SM, et al. Efficacy of a new topical nano-hyaluronic acid in humans. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014;7(3):27–9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3970829
6. Putra IB, et al. Skin changes and safety profile of topical products during pregnancy. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022;15(2):49–57. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8884185/
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