Types of HA Products

Many skin care products contain Hyaluronic Acid. Topical products containing HA are considered effective at moisturizing surface skin cells, which prevents water loss and protects the skin from dirt and other pollutants. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane, are injected into the deep layers of the skin to replace missing HA in the dermis, temporarily restoring plumpness and filling in wrinkles and creases. This restores a youthful appearance to the face, neck, chest or other areas injected with HA fillers.

Moisturizing

Since hyaluronic acid holds moisture very well (holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water) it is a component commonly used in moisturizers. In these moisturizers, it functions to deliver water to the skin and to retain it there. As a large molecule, it does not penetrate deep into the skin, but instead stays near the surface where it moisturizes the skin surface layers.

Wrinkle Reduction

The loss of natural hyaluronic acid is a leading cause of wrinkles, so the concept of putting HA back into the skin to repair wrinkles makes sense. Hyaluronic acid fillers are useful for reducing or removing wrinkles. By reducing wrinkles, hyaluronic acid fillers make the skin look younger and increase skin tone, making it look smooth and supple.

"Although most research shows that HA might take six weeks or more to improve skin’s appearance, some studies have found that anti-wrinkle HA serums and eye creams can sometimes start to work within just two to four weeks of use. For more substantial anti-aging results, dermatologists now use prescription injections or formulas containing hyaluronic acids (including Juvéderm Ultra Plus or Allergan) over the course of several months to reduce lip and eye sagginess." (Dr. Josh Axe, https://draxe.com/hyaluronic-acid/)

Safety

Hyaluronic acid based products are considered highly safe, especially those made from synthesized HA, which is made in bacteria instead of using human or animal tissue. 

Considerations

Hyaluronic acid is a great way to minimize wrinkles, hydrate your skin and improve your overall appearance.  Since topical products with HA cannot penetrate to deeper layers, the moisturizing effects from these will only last a few days. Repeated use will maintain moisture levels in the skin, preventing skin dehydration.

Despite the fact there are numerous hyaluronic acid serums on the market, you still have to be careful when choosing these products. In order to get the most out of the serum, you should consider these criteria:

• reliable manufacturer
• no parabens
• no artificial fragrances
• high potency HA
• other powerful nutrients like coconut oil
• hyaluronic from a vegan source is preferred
• Stay away from HA serums that also contain alcohol, parabens, sulfates, or other ingredients that are harmful to the skin.