What it is
Hyaluronic acid is a sugar-based molecule that occurs naturally in your skin, where it holds on to water and keeps tissue plump and supple. The amount in skin falls with age and sun exposure, which is one reason skin feels drier over time. In products it works as a humectant: it draws water into the upper layers of skin.
What it does for skin
- Gives an immediate boost of surface hydration.
- Temporarily plumps the look of fine, dehydration lines.
- Comes in different molecule sizes: larger ones hydrate the surface, smaller ones sit a little deeper.
- Suits almost every skin type, including sensitive and oily skin.
How to use it
Apply to slightly damp skin, then follow with a moisturiser to seal the water in. This matters most in dry or air-conditioned climates, where a humectant on its own can leave skin feeling tight.
Pairs well with
Good to know
Irritation is rare. If a serum feels sticky or tight, use less of it and layer a richer cream on top.
Sources
- Papakonstantinou E, Roth M, Karakiulakis G. Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermato-Endocrinology, 2012.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3583886/
This guide is for general education and is not medical advice. If you have a skin condition, are pregnant, or are unsure whether an ingredient is right for you, please talk to a dermatologist or doctor.