What does a hyaluronic acid serum do?
Hyaluronic acidis a powerful skincare ingredient, known for its moisturising properties. In this story, you’ll discover what a hyaluronic acid serum does for your skin, how to use it correctly, and which combinations are best avoided. Discover other facial serums that suit your skin’s needs too.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a molecule produced naturally by the body that is known for its unique ability to attract and retain moisture. It plays an important role in maintaining hydrated and supple skin. As we get older, the body’s natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases, which can lead to dryness and fine lines. By using a hyaluronic acid serum, you help your skin retain moisture and maintain a fresh, healthy glow.
Hyaluronic acid comes in different molecular weights, each of which has a specific function. High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid remains on the skin’s surface and provides immediate hydration and a radiant glow. Low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin and provides long-lasting hydration to the skin cells, helping the skin to remain firmer and visibly softening fine lines and wrinkles. As a result, hyaluronic acid not only helps to keep the skin hydrated, but can also help to maintain volume and firmness.
How often can you use hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is an ingredient you can use every day, both in the morning and in the evening. As it is a substance that occurs naturally in the skin, it is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. For best results, apply the serum to slightly damp skin and finish with a moisturiser to enhance the effect.
What should not be used in combination with hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid combines well with most skincare ingredients, but there is one combination you should avoid. Oil without a sealing moisturiser: if you combine hyaluronic acid with an oil without a sealing moisturiser, the water in your skin can evaporate, which can actually cause dryness.
How do you use a hyaluronic acid serum?
1. Cleanse your skin: make sure your skin is clean before applying the serum.
2. Apply to damp skin: this helps the serum retain moisture and absorb better into the skin.
3. Use a few drops: a small amount is sufficient. Gently massage it into the skin.
4. Finish with a moisturiser: this helps to lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated for longer.
Which is better: hyaluronic acid or retinol?
Hyaluronic acid and retinol have different functions in skincare. Hyaluronic acid focuses on hydration and ensures the skin remains supple and moisturised. Retinol, on the other hand, stimulates cell renewal and collagen production, which helps combat fine lines, dark spots and uneven skin texture. In this Skins Story, you can read more about what retinol is and what it does for your skin.
For most skin types, a combination of both ingredients is ideal: hyaluronic acid for hydration and retinol for skin improvement. However, it’s best to use retinol in the evening and always combine it with a hydrating serum and SPF during the day to prevent irritation.What is the best hyaluronic acid serum?
At Skins, you’ll discover an extensive selection of hyaluronic acid serums, perfect for intensely hydrated and radiant skin. A favourite of our Skins Experts and Educator Nienke is Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Hyaluronic Serum, which combines high-quality hyaluronic acid with purslane extract. This powerful duo provides intense hydration, protects against premature skin ageing and gives you a beautiful glow.
Looking for an alternative? Patyka’s Advanced Plumping Serum delivers hydration through all layers of the skin thanks to four different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, leaving the skin looking firmer and more even-toned. Or discover MANTLE’s The Hydra Serum, which provides intense hydration thanks to jellyfish mucin and sea algae, giving the skin an instant boost.
Get advice from our Skins Experts, online and in our Skins boutiques.
