When it comes to getting the most out of your skincare routine, hyaluronic acid is a must-have beauty staple. In fact, there’s a solid chance you've seen this humectant featured in more and more serums designed for anti-aging, hyaluronic acid’s skincare benefits are the gift that keeps on giving.
But what's the best way to incorporate this skin-loving ingredient into your current skincare regimen? And how do you know when to apply hyaluronic acid? Here’s the lowdown on hyaluronic acid—its skincare benefits and when to apply hyaluronic acid to help achieve that coveted lit-from-within-glow.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Unlike the exfoliating acids of the skincare world—like glycolic acid or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)—hyaluronic acid isn’t a skin exfoliant at all. It’s actually what’s known as a humectant. Hyaluronic acid, also referred to as “HA” or hyaluronan, is a natural humectant produced by your body. It plays the very important role of helping your skin’s tissues retain much-needed moisture. This water-binding molecule has a clear, gel-like appearance and can be found in your skin, joints, and other bodily tissues.
How Does Hyaluronic Acid Benefit Your Skin?
At least 50% of your body’s hyaluronic acid is found in your skin, which basically means that it’s crucial for retaining moisture levels and elasticity. Since your body produces less hyaluronic acid as you age—leading to things like dry skin and fine lines—it’s extra important to find products formulated with this ingredient in any anti-aging skincare routine. Hyaluronic acid’s primary skin benefits include visibly improving skin hydration and elasticity to help minimize the appearance of fine lines.
Besides serums and moisturizers, you’ll find hyaluronic acid in our foundations and concealers. Here are a few of our favorite HA skincare benefits for healthy-looking, youthful skin.
1. Delivers Lasting Hydration
Say goodbye to dry, parched skin—hyaluronic acid skincare is all about supporting hydration. It keeps water molecules close to the skin’s surface to make sure you achieve that enviable dewy glow.
2. Promotes Visibly Smoothed Lines
Hyaluronic acid can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which can result in skin that looks plumper and smoother with consistent use over time. Also, note that elastin is the component of your skin that helps it “snap back” into place in your youth. Although it’s not possible to replace elastin, hyaluronic acid may support skin elasticity.
3. Supports Plumper-Looking Skin
As we mentioned above, hyaluronic acid is a natural humectant. That means it draws in moisture from its surroundings. Humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and butylene glycol continue to be popular in water-based hydrating serums and moisturizers, largely because of their ability to help visibly plump and smooth fine lines.
4. Promotes a Supple Feel
Your skin’s lipid barrier—AKA moisture barrier—helps to prevent excessive moisture loss and protects your body from external aggressors. Your skin barrier can become weakened with age, leading to signs of premature aging. That’s why an intensely hydrating, quick-absorbing eye cream—such as Bye Bye Under Eye Eye Cream—is the perfect way to attract, and maintain moisture, enhance suppleness, and restore radiance to your eye area.
5. Suitable For Sensitive Skin
Even sensitive skin types can enjoy the benefits of hyaluronic acid! Generally gentle enough for daily use, hyaluronic acid helps to deliver moisture to your skin’s surface, which in turn can help it appear healthier-looking and with a bit more bounce.
How To Incorporate Products Formulated With Hyaluronic Acid In Your Skincare Routine
Now that you know why hyaluronic acid-formulated products deserve a spot in your skincare routine, here are some of our helpful tips for incorporating them into your skincare regimen.
Apply a Hyaluronic Acid Serum Twice Daily
Your Bye Bye Lines Hyaluronic Acid Serum should be used twice daily after cleansing and toning your skin. Apply two to three drops onto clean skin, using your fingertips to press into your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. In the morning, follow with your favorite IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream with SPF 50+.
Spray a Facial Mist
For a refreshingly luxurious effect, try spritzing your face with a mist formulated with hyaluronic acid, such as Your Skin But Better Setting Spray+. Simply shake your bottle and mist onto skin four times, making a “+” and “x” pattern to ensure your most even application. This multitasking must-have provides up to 16-hour wear to keep your makeup looking fresh all day while helping to control oil and shine.
Use Hyaluronic Acid Products After Showering
Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid are the perfect addition to your post-shower routine. Since hyaluronic acid is a moisture-absorbing humectant, try applying our Bye Bye Lines Hyaluronic Acid Serum immediately after showering.
Fine lines and wrinkles are a normal part of life, but it’s possible to reduce their appearance with game-changing products formulated with that are designed to support your skincare goals. If you ask us, this is one skincare step that’s totally worth IT!
Did you know there’s a difference between hydrating and moisturizing? We break it down for you.
Sources:
I. Aya KL, Stern R. Hyaluronan in wound healing: rediscovering a major player. Wound Repair Regen. 2014 Sep-Oct;22(5):579-93. doi: 10.1111/wrr.12214. PMID: 25039417.
