Hyaluronic acid is having a bona fide beauty moment. You’ll find it in a wide range of products, from injectables and supplements to skincare. Don’t fancy the idea of injecting this wonder ingredient into your skin? Fair enough. You’ll find hyaluronic acid on the labels of serums, creams, and gels without a needle in sight. But what is hyaluronic acid and what are the benefits of hyaluronic acid for skin? We explain everything below.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a molecule produced by the human body. It’s hidden in your eyes, joints, connective tissue, and your skin. It’s an incredible substance, helping to keep your tissues lubricated by retaining water. For our joints, it works as a cushion, keeping us moving smoothly. Half the body’s hyaluronic acid is found in the skin.
What Are The Benefits Of Hyaluronic Acid For Skin?
It hydrates
Hyaluronic acid plays an important role in healthy skin because it keeps our cells hydrated. It binds to water, helping skin to retain moisture. In fact, hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water!
As we get older, our natural stores of hyaluronic acid decrease. The consequent loss of moisture means skin is more prone to getting dry and dehydrated. Thankfully, hyaluronic acid skin care can help to boost moisture in the skin.
It’s a powerful humectant
Hyaluronic acid is a natural humectant – another buzz word in beauty. In skincare, a humectant works by drawing moisture into the skin. Think of it as your secret weapon for a dewy, glowing complexion.
It’s non-irritating
Don’t be scared of the word “acid”. Hyaluronic acid is actually very safe for skin. It is, after all, produced by our bodies! Hyaluronic acid has not been shown to cause acne, rosacea, or allergic reactions. If you do experience any side effects, we recommend you see a doctor or dermatologist.
It’s weightless
Hyaluronic acid is a lightweight, gel-like substance that is easily absorbed by the skin. It’s a great ingredient in skincare because it doesn’t feel heavy or clog pores. It penetrates the skin’s layers, helping to plump and firm.
It can assist in skin repair
Hyaluronic acid may play a role in the regeneration of tissue and inflammation responses. One reason is that hyaluronic acid strengthens the skin’s natural barrier. A strong barrier helps protect from environmental aggressors like pollution and UV rays.
The Best Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer
Look on the shelf of any beauty store and you’ll see many a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid. But it’s important to note that not every hyaluronic acid moisturizer is created equal.
Plant-based hyaluronic acid is the hero ingredient in Baptise H2O Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel. Although plenty of water gels exist, Baptise is unique. At Antipodes®, we wanted to create a moisturiser with hyaluronic acid that was 100% natural, certified vegetarian, and based on clean, New Zealand ingredients. The result is a product that ticks all the boxes for eco-conscious beauty experts.