Why is Hyaluronic Acid Used in Skincare?

If you’re unfamiliar with modern skincare treatments, a name like hyaluronic acid may cause you some concern.  You wouldn’t be the first person who would wonder why you would want to put acid on your skin.  But the fact is that hyaluronic acid already naturally exists in our bodies.  It’s found in the joints, the eyes and the skin.  It helps with elasticity and hydration.  As we get older, the levels of hyaluronic acid in our bodies decrease which can lead to reduced elasticity and skin dehydration.  This probably already answers your question of, “Why is hyaluronic acid used in skincare?” but to find out the details, carry on reading.

 

 

Hyaluronic Acid Hydrates The Skin

Hyaluronic acid is able to penetrate the skin and helps water bind to skin cells.  Dehydrated skin will appear more lifeless and saggy, so a dose of hyaluronic acid will plump the skin up and make it appear more vibrant.  

Hyaluronic Acid Reduces Wrinkles

As hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin, it fills in the lines that we know as wrinkles.  The extra hydration causes the skin cells to plump up and become less likely to sag.  Wrinkles are temporarily filled in and become less noticeable.

Hyaluronic Acid Tightens Skin

Skin begins to sag when it’s dehydrated.  Saggy skin also naturally occurs as we age because elastin production starts to decrease.  Hyaluronic acid won’t increase the production of elastin, but its hydrating abilities will cause the skin to become more taut and reduce the appearance of sagginess.

Hyaluronic Acid Reduces Unwanted Pigmentation

Pigmentation and age spots are caused by the build up of melanin when the skin is damaged by ultraviolet light.  Combined with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid boosts skin cell turnover which can reduce the appearance of age spots and damage from exposure to ultraviolet light.  

Hyaluronic Acid Draws More Moisture Into The Skin

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant.  Humectants are substances that absorb moisture.  Humectants can be found in many places where more moisture is desired, such as processed foods, cosmetics and medicines.  When hyaluronic acid is used as a skincare treatment it naturally attracts more moisture and further hydrates the skin.