What is Hyaluronic Acid & why is it so good for your skin?

If you were only going to add one skincare ingredient to your routine, it should be Hyaluronic Acid.

It can quench thirsty skin, soothe sensitivity, and smooth out the early signs of ageing. Not to mention fortifying your skin barrier and boosting your skin's suppleness.

In fact, the endless list of Hyaluronic Acid hydrating qualities makes it one of the best ingredients for everyone to add into their skincare routines.

It’s also great for all skin types, oily, dry, sensitive, ageing (or all of the above) - it’s the go-to for soft, supple and healthier-looking skin.

See the benefits of Hyaluronic Acid on skin all year round

Hyaluronic Acid’s natural ability to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin makes it a must-have in any skincare routine.

So, whether you're new to skincare or a seasoned enthusiast, incorporating a product like a serum with Hyaluronic Acid will pay dividends for your skin at any time of the year.

Hyaluronic Acid benefits the skin in winter by helping to prevent the cold weather and central heating from stripping your skin’s natural moisture. Plus, it helps to improve its texture and resilience.

While during summer, your skin faces an increase in sweat and sebum production, which can make it feel oily, (yet still dehydrated). A Hyaluronic Acid serum provides lightweight hydration that doesn’t clog pores or feel heavy, making it perfect for hot and humid conditions.

The Science – how Hyaluronic Acid works 

So, what is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic Acid is a type of molecule called Glycosaminoglycan. It occurs naturally in our connective tissue, where it helps to aid smooth, elastic movement.

It’s a humectant, meaning it draws water into the skin and holds onto it, providing intense hydration.

It’s this exceptional ability to hold on to water that makes Hyaluronic Acid the skincare ingredient of choice for deeply hydrated skin.

How Hyaluronic Acid Benefits Your Skin Barrier 

Hyaluronic Acid supports your skin barrier by aiding hydration, resilience, and repair.

• Hydrating
  Hyaluronic Acid draws water into your skin and then holds onto it, keeping your skin plump and elastic.

• Resilience
  When your skin barrier is hydrated, it is more resilient and can repair itself more efficiently. Hyaluronic Acid supports your skin’s natural healing process.

• Fortifying
  With its ability to help increase skin hydration, Hyaluronic Acid helps to fortify your skin against external stressors such as cold weather.

• Calming
  Hyaluronic Acid can have anti-inflammatory effects on your skin. It can calm and protect your skin.

What to look for when choosing a Hyaluronic Acid Serum 

Earlier we talked about how Hyaluronic Acid is a type of molecule. And molecules come in different molecular weights. This is important because the smaller the molecular weight, the better the molecules can penetrate the skin. Skincare that just sits on the surface of your skin will wash off and won’t provide any lasting benefits.

So, when choosing a Hyaluronic Acid Serum, look for one that contains sodium hyaluronate. This is a form of Hyaluronic Acid that has a smaller molecular weight, so it penetrates the skin more easily. This makes it the best choice for delivering deep hydration.

How to apply Hyaluronic Acid 

Hyaluronic Acid is gentle enough for daily application. It's suitable for all skin types, from oily to dry. And can be a game-changer, especially for those looking to boost their skin's moisture levels.

• Damp skin
  Apply on damp skin to help pull moisture from the surface into your skin, enhancing its hydrating effect.

• Order matters
  Apply it before your face cream, which then locks in the moisture. If you're using active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C, apply it after.

• Consistency is key
  Use it regularly as part of your daily skincare routine for the best results.

• Complementary ingredients
  Look for products that contain complementary ingredients like Vitamin B5, which further aids in hydration and skin repair.

How to use a Hyaluronic Acid Serum in your routine

For best results, you can use your Hyaluronic Acid serum as part of your morning and evening routines. After cleansing, simply apply 2-3 drops to your face and follow with your favourite moisturiser. 

Top tip: you can use Niacinamide Serum at the same time to boost your overall skin benefits.

Here’s your super quick guide on when to use it:

• AM: Gently cleanse → Apply Hyaluronic Acid serum → Moisturise → Protect with sunscreen.

• PM: Gently cleanse → Apply Hyaluronic Acid serum → Use a night moisturiser.

Skincare products & Hyaluronic Acid products

You can find Hyaluronic Acid in a range of skincare products, such as cleansers, moisturisers, serums and masks.

Simple’s Hyaluronic Acid serum, enriched with Vitamin B5 and PENTAVITIN™, provides deep and lasting hydration. It’s formulated with Sodium Hyaluronate, which penetrates deeply into your skin to deliver the active ingredients more effectively and give you lasting results. Your skin will feel hydrated, plump and smooth - without heaviness or greasiness.

Hyaluronic Acid, your questions answered. 

Q: Is Hyaluronic Acid good for skin? 

A: 100%. Hyaluronic Acid is known for its incredible hydration benefits, making it the perfect addition to any skincare routine. It’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.

Q: What are the Hyaluronic Acid serum benefits? 

A: A Hyaluronic Acid serum can hydrate, plump, and revitalise your skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Q: How does Hyaluronic Acid benefit the skin? 

A: It acts as a magnet for moisture, supports the skin's healing processes, and provides a barrier against environmental damage, keeping the skin hydrated and resilient.

Q: Are there any side effects to using Hyaluronic Acid? 

A: Hyaluronic Acid is generally well-tolerated, but as with any skincare product, it's always wise to do a patch test first. 

Like all our products, our Hyaluronic Acid serum has been formulated with sensitive skin in mind and has been dermatologically tested. So, it’s safe to use for everyone.

Q: How should I apply Hyaluronic Acid to my skincare routine? 

A: For best results, apply it to damp skin to and follow with your favourite moisturiser. 

Q: Can Hyaluronic Acid serum replace my anti-ageing products? 

A: While it has anti-ageing properties, it's best used in conjunction with other targeted treatments for a comprehensive skincare strategy.

Q: Does Hyaluronic Acid lighten skin? 

A: No, Hyaluronic Acid doesn’t share any of the traits with exfoliating acids like Lactic Acid or Glycolic Acid. So, rest assured it will not change the colour of your skin, but it will hydrate it for a dewy, glow.