Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Skin

The benefits of using hyaluronic acid for skin include:

• Improved appearance. Studies found that lotions, creams, and moisturizers containing acid can help reduce wrinkles, firm up skin, improve texture, and combat dryness.
• Reduced acne scarring and acne. When applied or injected, hyaluronic acid can reduce the appearance of acne and acne scarring.
• Dewy skin. This is a trait commonly sought through the use of moisturizers, oils, or highlighters, but hyaluronic acid serums, creams, and lotions adds moisture to the skin, which in turn gives your skin a more dewy look.
• Reduced eczema. Those with “mild to moderate” redness and eczema could see a reduction in symptoms through the use of a hyaluronic acid-based foam. Be sure to speak with a medical professional before trying.
• Conditioning for the scalp. While hyaluronic acid won’t do much when applied to your hair, it can condition the scalp. Hair follicles are embedded in the dermal layer, and hyaluronic acid can help encourage growth at that level.

How to Use Hyaluronic Acid

Like most skincare products, you’re going to see the best results if you use hyaluronic acid regularly.

Rachel Silmore recommends both morning and night, followed by a moisturizer to keep everything ‘locked in’. “Hyaluronic acid will draw moisture from the deeper layers of skin, bringing it to the surface and potentially exacerbating dry skin symptoms, so it’s imperative to follow with a moisturiser.”

Health Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

In addition to helping plump, smooth, moisturize, and all-around beautify, hyaluronic acid works internally to ease with a number of issues. Science stands solidly behind these benefits:

• Improved joint and bone health. Multiple studies theorized that hyaluronic acid could promote better bone and joint health. It already works naturally in the body to keep joints well-lubricated and taking 80 to 200 milligrams daily as a supplement has been shown to significantly help those with osteoarthritis.
• Relief from dry eye. Hyaluronic acid’s moisturizing nature has been proven effective in the treatment of dry eyes.
• Relief from bladder discomfort. Some studies reported that hyaluronic acid, when injected, could also improve bladder health, reducing complications associated with a painful bladder.
• Faster healing of wounds. Hyaluronic acid has been shown to speed up recovery when applied directly to an open wound, by regulating inflammation levels and encouraging the body to build more blood vessels.
• Reduced acid reflux symptoms. According to one study, reflux symptoms were significantly reduced by taking a hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate supplement along with an acid-reducing medication.

Forms of hyaluronic acid

OK, now that you know what it does, how do you go about using it?

Hyaluronic acid is available in multiple forms, including oral supplements, applied serums, and injectables. Which one you choose ultimately comes down to what you’re using it for, what your budget is, and your personal preference.

Oral hyaluronic acid. It’s always best to speak with a trusted health professional before using an oral supplement. Studies have shown that taking 120 to 240 milligrams per day for at least a month significantly reduced dry skin and increased moisture.

Topical hyaluronic acid. Along with hyaluronic acid serums, there are creams and makeup that feature the acid as a main ingredient. As with any new skin care ingredient, results and side effects may vary. However, because hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring, side effects are usually limited.

Injectable hyaluronic acid. Some dermatologists offer injectable hyaluronic acid fillers, and while the treatment is considered safe, this guide will focus on options that are readily available for purchase by consumers for at-home use, namely oral and topical.

For any of the non-skin-related uses above, you should talk with a doctor or seek advice at a local health clinic to talk about whether HA is right for you — and if so, what form, dose, and frequency, etc.

As for beauty applications, we’ve got you covered. If you’re ready to try out hyaluronic acid for acne, dry skin, pesky wrinkles, or just some glowy skin, we’ve gathered the best products to try out. Looking to ease a dry scalp or encourage the growth of luscious locks? We’ve got that on the list too.

The 3 Types of Hyaluronic Acid: How They Differ

There are three types of hyaluronic acid:

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid is hyaluronic acid that has been broken down into elements small enough to penetrate the skin, Gasquet says. It’s moisturizing, but not the most moisturizing option, so it’s best for people who have oily or combination skin, since these skin types want to avoid over-moisturizing.
Sodium hyaluronate goes deeper into the skin and delivers even better results, though the effects aren’t very long lasting, Gasquet says. “Sodium hyaluronate is best for people who have normal skin, because it will allow moisture to seep in, but you don’t really need a heavy-duty, long-lasting effect.” This is the ingredient you’ll likely find in serums.
Sodium acetylated hyaluronate has the benefits of sodium hyaluronate but with longer-lasting results. It’s best for people who need moisture, such as those with dry skin, those who live in dry climates, or those looking for a product for the dry winter months.