What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan found naturally in the skin. It is a clear, gooey substance that works to bind water to collagen, trapping it in the skin, so that skin can appear plumper, dewier, and more youthful.
HA is part of what dermatologists call the skin's Extracellular Matrix (ECM) - all the components that make up your skin's structure. Alongside collagen and elastin, HA gives skin its volume and shape.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
There are many benefits associated with hyaluronic acid, including:
- Hydration - One of the major benefits of HA is its incredible water-binding capabilities. One molecule of HA can bind up to 1000x its weight in water!
- Plumps skin - By boosting moisture content, HA helps plump fine lines and wrinkles from within, allowing skin to appear more youthful.
- Elasticity & firmness - Hydrated skin is also more elastic and firm. HA helps maintain collagen and elastin structures.
- Protects from pollutants - Some research shows HA can act as a free radical scavenger, protecting cells from pollutants and toxins.
Where is Hyaluronic Acid Found in Skin?
There are two forms of hyaluronic acid naturally present in skin:
- High Molecular Weight (HMW) HA - This long-chain HA absorbs and holds more water. It provides structure.
- Low Molecular Weight (LMW) HA - This can penetrate deeper into skin's surface layers.
Most of skin's HA can be found in the visible top layers of skin, adding volume and hydration. But we lose HA as we age.
The Case for Hyaluronic Acid Serums
By our mid-20s, our skin produces less HA. Lower HA levels lead to dryness, fine lines and wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
Using hyaluronic acid topically helps replenish this loss. Dermatologists consider it a safe, effective moisturizing ingredient for most skin types.
What to Look for in an HA Serum
With so many hyaluronic acid serums available, make sure to choose one that works for your particular skin's needs. Look for serums that:
- Contain both high and low molecular weight HA - get deep hydration + surface plumping in one product
- Have a concentration of HA between 1-3% - higher doses unlikely to improve efficacy
- Come packaged in opaque containers - HA breaks down with light exposure
- Have a pH between 5-6 - maximizes HA stability + skin penetration ability
How to Use a Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Use your HA serum after cleansing but before heavier creams or sunscreen. Gently pat 3-5 drops over damp skin and allow to fully absorb.
You can use HA serum 1-2 times daily, or as needed when skin feels dry or tight.
Some research indicates HA may enhance penetration of other ingredients, so layering HA serum underneath other treatments can boost benefits!
Reviewing By Nature Hyaluronic Acid Serum
By Nature's HA Intense Build Hyaluronic Acid Serum aims to restore hydration and plump skin. It contains a botanical complex alongside different HA molecules for multi-depth hydration. Let's look closer at the key ingredients in this serum:
Key Ingredients
- 2% Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Complex - Contains both HMW and LMW HA to hydrate surface layers and deeper skin structure.
- BiophytexLS 9338 - This algae extract is rich in nutrients to nourish skin and protect from environmental stressors.
- Glycerin - A common humectant that further boosts hydration and acts as a penetration enhancer.
Texture & Feel
The serum has an ultra-lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture. Despite the impressive ingredients list, it feels weightless on skin, with a refreshing cooling effect.
It finishes slightly tacky, which helps seal in moisture. This tackiness fades as it dries down fully, making it a comfortable base for additional products.
Performance & Results
After a few days use, skin looks fresher, smoother, and more radiant. Fine lines appear softened. Skin regains a healthy bounce and elasticity.
Hydration is dramatically improved - skin drinks up serums and creams layered over this, enhancing their effects. Makeup glides over smoothly without clinging to dry patches.
The hydration boost lasts all day. Unlike some HA serums which feel superficial, this one quenches skin long-term from the inside out.
Who is it Best Suited For?
This serum is formulated for all skin types. It will relieve dryness for normal to oily complexions, and provide an extra moisture shot for dry sensitive skin.
It's ideal for those struggling with dehydration, visible fine lines and wrinkles, loss of firmness and elasticity, and skin that just lacks that youthful glow.
Drawbacks
The only drawback is that it may not layer perfectly with all ingredients - the tacky finish could ball up underneath products that contain silicones for example.
Since it's free of potential irritants though, most skins should handle this serum with no issues.
Should You Use By Nature's HA Serum?
By Nature Hyaluronic Acid Serum delivers impressive hydration thanks to its combination of high and low molecular weight HA.
It provides instant surface-level plumping and hydration, as well as longer term wrinkle-smoothing effects from deep hydration of skin structure.
The algae extract adds an extra nutrient boost too.
If your skin is feeling dry, dull, bumpy, or saggy - this hardworking serum helps restore a glowing, firm, radiant complexion.
FAQs
What does hyaluronic acid do for your skin?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an excellent hydrator for skin. It can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, helping attract and retain moisture in skin cells. This plumps and firms skin from the inside out, smoothing the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
Can hyaluronic acid reverse wrinkles?
Hyaluronic acid won’t reverse wrinkles or signs of aging that have already developed. However, improving hydration in skin can help temporarily “fill in” finer lines and wrinkles, making them less apparent. Consistent use can slow new wrinkle formation too.
Does hyaluronic acid really work?
Yes, HA is proven to significantly boost moisture levels in skin. This helps with the look of youthfulness and skin’s tone, texture. As our bodies produce less HA as we age, topical application is an easy way to supplement levels for hydrated, dewy skin.
When should you apply hyaluronic acid serum?
Apply your HA serum after cleansing and toning skin, but before any heavier moisturizers or sunscreens. HA works best when applied to damp skin as this helps it attract and hold even more hydration in the skin.
Can I use vitmain C and hyaluronic acid together?
Yes, it's safe and beneficial to pair vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. HA enhances penetration of vitamin C serums, helping boost collagen production in skin for brighter tone and firmer structure. Apply vitamin C first before hyaluronic acid.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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