Superhero hydration: hyaluronic acid reduces dryness, smooths wrinkles, calms skin, and fortifies the epidermal layer. In addition to being a potent humectant, it maintains water to give texture plumpness.
If you're wondering how to use hyaluronic acid for optimal skin benefits, this guide will cover everything from application techniques to the best practices and common mistakes to avoid.
When and How to Use Hyaluronic Serum
Hyaluronic acid is best used right after cleansing your face and before applying your moisturizer. This ensures that it traps moisture from the products applied afterward, maximizing hydration.
What is Hyaluronic Acid Good For?
Hydrates Skin
Because of hyaluronic acid's amazing capacity to attract and retain moisture in the skin, it is a common ingredient in skincare products. Various hyaluronic acid forms are accessible. According to one study, using topical new nano hyaluronic acid for eight weeks in the form of a lotion, cream, or serum increased skin moisture.
Smooths Skin Texture
The aging process and environmental factors can cause the skin to lose suppleness and become rough and callused. Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, has been demonstrated to lessen skin roughness and to have a soothing impact.
Anti-Aging
The skin contains over half of the hyaluronic acid in the body. Wrinkles may form as a result of variations in this hyaluronic acid content throughout aging. On the other hand, applying topical hyaluronic acid may increase skin suppleness, which may reduce the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines.
How to Apply Hyaluronic Acid: Step-by-Step
- Cleanse Your Face: Start with a clean canvas. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Apply a cream exfoliant or Vitamin C clay mask if this is part of your routine. If it’s not, proceed straight from cleansing to your serum.
- Apply Hyaluronic Acid Serum: While your skin is still damp, apply a few drops of hyaluronic acid serum. Gently pat it into the skin, avoiding the eye area.
- Follow with a Moisturizer: Seal in the hydration by applying a moisturizer immediately after the serum. This helps lock in the moisture provided by the hyaluronic acid.
Can You Use Hyaluronic Acid Every Day?
Yes, you can use hyaluronic acid every day. It is gentle enough for daily use and can be incorporated into both morning and evening skincare routines.
Can I Leave Hyaluronic Acid on My Face Overnight?
Absolutely! Hyaluronic acid is safe to leave on your face overnight. Since hyaluronic acid is a serum, it won't need to be cleaned off because it will sink into the skin.
What Not to Mix with Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic Acid is a mild substance that goes well with virtually anything! Because hyaluronic acid is primarily a hydrating and calming agent, it's best to combine it with harsher substances to reduce discomfort.
Which Ingredients Can You Layer Hyaluronic Acid With?
Hyaluronic acid works well with a variety of other skincare ingredients, enhancing their effectiveness:
- Vitamin C: Boosts antioxidant protection and brightens the skin.
- Retinol: Enhances anti-aging effects while mitigating potential dryness from retinol.
- Peptides: Promotes collagen production for firmer skin.
- Niacinamide: Improves skin texture and tone.
- AHAs and BHAs: such as Benzoyl Peroxide, can cause dryness and irritation to sensitive skin, making it difficult to incorporate them into skincare routines.
The Dos & Don'ts of Using Hyaluronic Acid
Dos:
- Do apply on damp skin: This helps the hyaluronic acid bind moisture more effectively.
- Do follow with a moisturizer: This locks in the hydration.
- Do use regularly: Consistent use yields the best results.
Don'ts:
- Don't use it on dry skin: Applying hyaluronic acid on dry skin can sometimes have the opposite effect, leading to dehydration.
- Don't mix with incompatible products: Avoid using immediately after strong acids or other potent actives to prevent irritation.
- Don't skip the patch test: As with any new product, do a patch test to ensure you don't have any adverse reactions.
By following these guidelines on using hyaluronic acid, you can ensure that your skin reaps the maximum benefits of this versatile and potent skincare ingredient. Whether you're aiming for better hydration, smoother texture, or anti-aging effects, hyaluronic acid can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine.
