Everything You Need to Know about Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid can be used for any skin type or color.

Many skin care products now contain hyaluronic acid (HA) and tout its effectiveness for healing skin damage, reducing the signs of aging and increasing skin's hydration. But what is hyaluronic acid, and is it an effective treatment for dry, damaged and aging skin?

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

The skin naturally produces the polysaccharide (carbohydrate) called hyaluronic acid; it is present in the spaces between skin cells and gives skin its volume, fullness and smoothness. Younger skin has high levels of hyaluronic acid, but levels fall gradually starting in a person's 20s and even faster after 40. The drop in hyaluronic acid levels is thought to be one of the factors responsible for wrinkles and moisture loss as skin ages.

Although the word "acid" is in its name, HA does not burn or strip skin; in fact, HA is a moisturizing agent that can smooth skin and allow it to attract and hold onto moisture. Most hyaluronic acid used in injections and in skin care products is produced by certain bacteria, but has the same effect on skin as the hyaluronic acid that occurs naturally in skin. Some HA is also derived from animal sources.

Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in all areas of the body including joints, which makes it an effective treatment for joint inflammation and pain. It has been called a "youth serum" by some experts because of its effects on both the skin and the joints.

Hyaluronic acid should be used under a moisturizer or sunscreen.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Skin

HA products can increase hydration in your skin by binding to water particles and holding them in place. HA also makes skin more elastic, which can prevent wrinkles from forming. For wrinkles or other skin damage that is already present, HA can help to reverse the damage, and it may even protect against UV damage from too much sun exposure.

Hyaluronic acid can be used for every type of skin, including darker skin, oily skin, or dry skin. HA can also be used under a moisturizer or sunscreen on normal to dry skin or alone on oily skin. When used with other products, HA should be applied first. It takes several weeks or up to two months to begin to see the effects of HA on wrinkles, although skin may feel more hydrated right away. Higher concentrations of HA will have a more hydrating effect on skin.

Possible Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid

There are no known side effects or drug interactions associated with using HA for the skin. HA is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, although no negative effects are known. Some evidence has shown that HA can contribute toward cancerous tumor growth, so cancer sufferers may want to ask their doctor before using HA.

Interested in improving the look of your client's skin with HA? Start by browsing Vivant's Totaloe Calming and Hydrating Gel and Wink Eye Rejuvenation Cream.