What is hyaluronic acid?

Hydration is the cornerstone of radiant, youthful skin. Just as our bodies thirst for water, so does our skin, and there's one hero ingredient that quenches this thirst like no other: hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance found in the body's connective tissues. It's a glycosaminoglycan, a long chain of disaccharides (sugars) present in all connective tissues that are responsible for retaining moisture. One of hyaluronic acid's primary functions is to retain water to keep tissues well-lubricated and moist. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent hydrator for the skin.

What hyaluronic acid does for skin:

• Intense Hydration: Hyaluronic acid is like a sponge for moisture, holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. For anyone dealing with dry, parched skin, this is the ultimate hydrator.

• Plumps Skin: By attracting water molecules, hyaluronic acid plumps up the skin, giving it a fuller, more youthful appearance. It also assists in smoothing the skin's texture, making fine lines and surface imperfections less noticeable.

• Evens Skin Tone: Its hydrating properties not only moisturize but also help in evening out the skin's tone, reducing dullness, and bringing a fresh, balanced look. 

• Enhances Skin's Natural Barrier: Beyond hydration, hyaluronic acid strengthens the skin's natural barrier, helping to lock in moisture and protect against environmental aggressors. Think of it as an invisible shield for your skin.

• Works with Other Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid plays well with others, enhancing the benefits of other skincare ingredients. It's often found in formulas with vitamins, peptides, and antioxidants, boosting their efficacy.

You can find more information from Cosmedica-Skincare.

But not all serums are created equal. Below I have a breakdown of two hyaluronic acid serums that have certain properties that stand out more than others. 

What hyaluronic acid serum should you use?

If you have oily skin use The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum

I'm noticing a trend with The Ordinary: this brand is more about the ingredients and less about the moisture. According to Faceserum, the other positive properties of Hyaluronic—like evening out skin tone—are definitely noticeable after use. However, the promise of moisture? Not so much.

It's combined with B5 vitamins, renowned for their hydrating and skin-healing properties. But if you're not into the plump, ultra-moisturized look, this is certainly a powerful product to incorporate into your nightly skin rotation and/or morning routine!

• Evens Skin Tone 

• Enhances Skins Natural Barrier

Key differentiating ingredient: Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer is an advanced form of hyaluronic acid. Unlike its basic counterpart, this cross-linked version offers prolonged moisturization due to its unique molecular structure. It's designed to release moisture over time, ensuring that the skin remains hydrated for extended periods.

If you have any skin type (dry, normal or oily) use CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum with 3 Essential Ceramides and B5

This stuff is the best. Perhaps it's the Ceramides, a type of lipid (fat) naturally found in the skin, crucial for maintaining its barrier function. I have oily skin, but I don't care. This was the first product to offer me a glowy dew without a heavy residue. I use it in the morning to shield my skin and bestow a healthy, lightweight glow.

• Intense Hydration

• Plumps Skin

• Enhances Skins Natural Barrier

• Works Well with Others

Key differentiating ingredient: Dimethicone is a type of silicone that acts as a barrier agent. Its primary function is to protect the skin from external elements while also sealing in natural moisture. Additionally, it provides a smooth and silky texture to the product, ensuring even application and a non-greasy finish. In the realm of skincare, it's praised for its ability to enhance the skin's protective barrier.

Here's an honest testimonial of the CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum with 3 Essential Ceramides and B5 from my TikTok @nicolole77.

Personally, I've used both of these products and loved them for their unique benefits. However, when I'm after the perks of Hyaluronic—like plump skin, ultra-moisturizing effects, and an even skin tone—CeraVe comes out on top. If you have very oily skin and lean toward a matte finish, The Ordinary is your go-to. But if you're a glazed donut enthusiast like me, give CeraVe a whirl.

As always, moderation is key. I don't recommend using both of these products on the same day. Choose the one that best caters to your needs and monitor how your skin feels over the next few weeks. Good luck! <3

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FAQ

Q: When to use a hyaluronic acid serum?

A: When you think of ultra-moisturizing, you probably think of nighttime. Many night creams these days include hyaluronic acid for this very reason! However, considering all the amazing potions you could incorporate into your nighttime routine, and the fact that most night creams already contain some, I find that applying this in the AM best capitalizes on the following properties: Enhances Skin's Natural Barrier, Works Well with Others, and Plumps Skin.

Q: Is it okay to use hyaluronic acid serum every day?

It's gentle enough to use every day, both in the morning and evening. But check the ingredients in your night cream. If it already contains hyaluronic acid, save your money by using your serum only in the AM!

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Disclaimer: The author is not a Dermatologist or Licensed Aesthetician, please consult with a Professional before trying any new products.