Hyaluronic acid is used as an ingredient in skin care products due to its "unique capacity in retaining water."¹
But did you know that it is also naturally produced by our bodies? Here, we explain how hyaluronic acid is produced, the relationship between hyaluronic acid, cutaneous aging and how to improve skin quality through topical application.
WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?
Hyaluronic Acid is an essential chemical that decreases with age. Just like collagen, the body produces hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring polysaccharide located in the skin, joints, and eyes. Hyaluronic acid (or HA) is essential for keeping the skin hydrated thanks to its ability to bind and retain water molecules. Well-hydrated skin is necessary to reinforce the shield over the skin allowing it to retain moisture and protect against bacteria.
When looking at how hyaluronic acid is produced in the body, research has shown that the production of hyaluronic acid decreases with age. This results in a gradual increase in dehydration, loss of elasticity and dullness.
WHAT DOES HYALURONIC ACID DO TO YOUR SKIN?
Replenishing levels of hyaluronic acid in the skin can be safely achieved through hyaluronic acid skin care (topical application) in a variety of forms, from hyaluronic acid serums to moisturizers and dermatological processes such as facials. In cosmetics, hyaluronic acid is often used in different molecular forms: the larger the form, the less it penetrates, offering surface-level hydration. The smaller the molecules, however, the deeper the absorption into the surface layers of the skin – improving skin health.
PRODUCTS FEATURING HYALURONIC ACID
Vichy's Minéral 89, for example, is a refreshing and instantly absorbed hyaluronic acid serum that contains hyaluronic acid and Vichy Mineralizing Thermal Water, recommended as the first step of a skincare routine. Alternatively, the LiftActiv Supreme Serum 10 contains different forms of hyaluronic acid in a powerful and unique formula that targets ten signs of aging.
Listen to hear why dermatologist Dr. Sugai (@danielsugaimd ) keeps coming back to our Mineral 89 Booster Serum!
Hyaluronic acid is therefore a key skin care ingredient when it comes to reinforcing our skin's health, as well as giving it a plump, youthful texture and preventing cutaneous aging.
SOURCES:
¹ Papakonstantinou, E., Roth, M. and Karakiulakis, G. ‘Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging’ in Dermato-endocrinology 4.3 (201) pp. 253-258 [Accessed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/]
