What is Hyaluronic Acid Serum: How does it benefit my skin and how to use it for best results

What is hyaluronic acid, and how does it benefit aging skin?

Well, to put it simply, hyaluronic acid is a natural skin plumper!

It helps attract and bind water molecules to your skin, giving it a bouncy, plump look and feel.

However, results can vary depending on several factors, including:

the type of hyaluronic acid (HA) you use
the strength of HA
how and when you apply it

Keep reading to learn more…

About hydrating hyaluronic acid serum

hyaluronic acid serum bottle and dropper

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance (a group of sugar molecules called polysaccharides) naturally found in the body, like in the skin, joints, and eyes.

It acts as a cushion and lubricant, providing lubrication for movement and helping to protect joints from wear and tear.

With age, the hyaluronic acid levels naturally decline, especially in the skin. This often results in drier, thinner skin. Which is why it's so important to manually replace it by using a topical serum or cream.

In cosmetics (like serums and creams) a synthetic, lab-produced hyaluronic acid is used as a hydrating/moisturizing agent called a humectant because it helps draw moisture deep into the skin.

And, it works well if applied correctly!

What does it do, and how does it help aging skin?

As we age, our natural levels of HA decline.

Applying HA serum can help improve the appearance of parched, dehydrated, wrinkled skin by drawing moisture to the dermis.

And while it won’t permanently restore skin tissue levels, daily application of super low molecular weight hyaluronic acid can help provide a temporary lift and plumpness to the skin.

Don’t let the word “acid” scare you, there is nothing acidic or harsh about this mucopolysaccharide. In fact, it's suitable for all skin types - from oily/acne prone to sensitive irritated skin.

How to apply hyaluronic acid

woman applying hyaluronic acid serum to her face

I've tried HA several times without any noticeable effects, until I learned how to apply it correctly for best results:

Left over makeup or sunscreen can impede absorption. So, make sure your face is super clean.

Hyaluronic acid serum is best applied on damp, not wet skin. If your face is too wet, it won't go on evenly. So, after washing your face, lightly blot your face dry, but leave it slightly damp.

After application, let it dry, then follow-up with a moisturizer.

This is the special tip for best results! The moisturizer will help seal the serum deep into the skin.

Applying hyaluronic acid on your face is like putting a little air into a deflated tire. Lines and fold are a little less visible and your whole face looks plumper, fuller with a little less sag.

When to apply HA serum

When is the best time to apply hyaluronic acid serum? I like to apply it twice a day, in the morning and at night.

First thing in the morning, after washing your face and before applying your moisturizer and sunscreen.

And, again, at night, after washing your face and before your favorite nighttime moisturizer.

The best hydrating hyaluronic acid serum?

woman holding dropper of hyaluronic acid serum

Hyaluronic acid can be found in many creams and cosmetics.

But in order to obtain full benefits, look for cosmetics that contain low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid. Low-molecular-weight HA penetrates better for optimum results. ¹

Want to Boost HA Levels?

There are different types of hyaluronic acid used in cosmetics. They include:

hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid
sodium acetylated hyaluronate
sodium hyaluronate

Look for products that sodium hyaluronate for best results.

Also, check to see if they have added ingredients for extra plumping effects like:

panthenol (B5)
niacinamide
N-acetyl glucosamine

I use the Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Serum by Zenmed.

It’s a combination of the hyaluronic acid serum (in the form of sodium hyaluronate) along with B5, CoQ10 and green tea.

The combo provides long term hydration (24 hour) hydration and skin tightening effects.

Side effects of hyaluronic acid serum

HA serums and creams are pretty safe for most people and generally don't have any documented side-effects.

If you're very sensitive to cosmetics, you might consider doing a small patch test before applying it to your face.

FAQ: Hyaluronic Acid

Q: Can I use hyaluronic acid and tretinoin together?

A: Yes, after the tretinoin has been applied and absorbed, it's a good idea to apply hyaluronic acid serum or cream to seal in moisture and prevent the drying effects of tretinoin. However, to be safe, always double check with your tretinoin provider before applying.

Q: Does hyaluronic acid work?

A: Yes, but it's important to use products (serum is best) that contain high amounts of low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid and in the form of sodium hyaluronate.

Q: Can I use hyaluronic acid serum under eye?

A: Yes, if the product is meant for the face and eye area, you can use HA serums and creams under and around the eye area. Always follow directions on the bottle.

Q: Do I apply retinol or hyaluronic acid first?

A: It's best to apply your retinol first and let it soak in as directed. Then apply the hyaluronic acid and follow that with your favorite moisturizer.

Q: Can I use hyaluronic acid if I have rosacea?

A: Yes! Hyaluronic acid serum is great for rosacea. It's hydrating, non-greasy, and won't inflame or irritate sensitive rosacea conditions.

Q: Hyaluronic acid vs glycolic acid, what's the difference?

A: Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).

It's a chemical exfoliant used to exfoliate dead skin cells by breaking the glue bonds between skin cells.

This allows the dead cells to slough off easily and leaves your skin smooth and clean. It also helps stimulate collagen production.

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it draws moisture to the skin. Both glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid (HA) should be used to improve aging skin.

You should use the glycolic acid first (following directions on the bottle) and then once it's rinsed off, and before you apply your moisturizer, apply a light layer of HA to hydrate the skin.

Q: Which is better hyaluronic acid moisture cream or serum?

A: The serum is usually more potent than the cream. Personally, I'd rather use the serum and then follow up with my favorite moisturizer cream.

Other pages you might like:

Hyaluronic Acid Studies

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