Hyaluronic Acid is an absolute skin savior and the ultimate anti-aging ingredient. It deeply hydrates and binds moisture to cells, while its lightweight texture makes it equally effective for helping to balance your skin. Derived from plant sources (yes, it’s vegan!) and also naturally present in our skin and joints, it’s ideal for all skin types. It’s no wonder the beauty world is obsessed with the skin-boosting powers of this wildly clever molecule. Read on to learn more about this buzzworthy ingredient.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in our connective tissues, joints, hair, skin and eyes. The primary functions of Hyaluronic Acid include hydration and lubrication of joints. This genius molecule has the ability to attract, bind and hold moisture in our cells. It actually attaches itself to the water in cells, giving them a plump, bouncy appearance. Hyaluronic Acid also pulls moisture from the air to keep your skin moist. You may have heard that Hyaluronic Acid is composed of both short chain and long chain molecules. Short chain molecules provide instant hydration to flood the outer layers of the skin. Long chain molecules penetrate the skin for deeper hydration. The best Hyaluronic Acid serums will contain a combination of short and long chain molecules.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
The reason dermatologists, skincare experts and the beauty insiders love Hyaluronic Acid lies in its uncanny ability to act as a humectant, aka retain moisture in the skin. Lack of moisture is one of the main culprits behind the visible signs of aging skin, including: wrinkles, fine lines, loss of skin elasticity, volume and dehydrated skin. As we age, our natural stores of Hyaluronic Acid decrease and the skin’s moisture barrier becomes compromised. Adding topical Hyaluronic Acid to your skincare routine is a simple way to restore and protect this vital barrier and maintain your youthful appearance. This lovely molecule is also fast absorbing, non-irritating and suitable for almost anyone. What’s not to love?
Hyaluronic Acid vs Sodium Hyaluronate
Here’s a little chemistry lesson: Hyaluronic Acid has a sister counterpart called Sodium Hyaluronate. Sodium Hyaluronate is the water soluble salt form of Hyaluronic Acid. It’s slightly more stable than Hyaluronic Acid and less likely to oxidize (become less effective over time). Another fun fact about Sodium Hyaluronate is that it naturally has a lower molecular weight than Hyaluronic Acid. This means that it can penetrate the skin deeper providing moisture boosting and plumping benefits to multiple layers of the skin. OSEA uses both Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate in our formulations.
How to Use It
Hyaluronic Acid comes in many forms; from serums, moisturizers and even mists and masks. It is also the main ingredient in cosmetic fillers (injectables). It’s important to remember that this brilliant ingredient is just one vital step in your anti-aging routine. Don’t forget to layer your skincare properly! Hyaluronic Acid should always be followed with a moisturizer or facial oil to lock in moisture and keep everything bouncy, plump and intensely hydrated.