Written by OSEA Staff | Published September 12, 2024
A classic anti-aging superhero ingredient is making a buzz: hyaluronic acid.
You’ve probably noticed that hyaluronic acid is a hit in beauty. From moisturizers to serums, hyaluronic acid is revered for its ability to hydrate skin and replenish moisture to leave your complexion looking plumper, fresher, and more rejuvenated.
But what is hyaluronic acid, and why is this seemingly magic potion quickly becoming the most valuable player in skincare routines for all ages and skin types?
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Despite its clinical-sounding name, hyaluronic acid is actually a naturally occurring substance. Our bodies naturally produce it to lubricate joints and moisturize the eyes and skin.
As the body ages, it produces less of this moisture-grabbing powerhouse, which contributes to common signs of aging, like fine lines, dryness, and reduced elasticity. Restoring these moisture-packed molecules with skincare products that contain hyaluronic acid can help your skin look and feel healthy, supple, and hydrated, giving you a more youthful-looking and glowing complexion.
So, what is hyaluronic acid good for? In addition to the instant hydration boost, the powerful ingredient bonds with collagen and elastin fibers, so your skin stays looking strong, plump, and firm. The moisture-capturing molecules also help keep your skin hydrated, preventing the water loss that leaves your skin parched.
What Skincare Products With Hyaluronic Acid Can I Use?
When looking for products, it’s common to see other ingredients on the list in addition to hyaluronic acid. For example, combining peptides with hyaluronic acid can amplify their power for faster and more visible results.
Our Hyaluronic Sea Serum uses two molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, Japanese Miru seaweed, and snow mushroom to restore and maintain the best moisture levels on the skin’s barrier.
Our Ocean Eyes® Age-Defying Serum uses a blend of Undaria seaweed and red algae to brighten the delicate skin under the eyes and reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, while caffeine helps reduce the look of bags and hyaluronic acid helps deliver and retain moisture.
When you apply a hyaluronic acid serum, you’ll notice that it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy. The formula absorbs into the deeper skin layers, delivering moisture where it’s most needed, instead of remaining on the surface. The result is an instant plumping effect that can diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Is Hyaluronic Acid Used for Body Care?
Since the skin on the face is thinner than the rest of the body, it’s more prone to regular damage from the elements. However, this doesn’t mean that the skin on the rest of your body doesn’t need a little extra TLC.
Body care that contains hyaluronic acid will help deliver similar hydrating results, especially if it’s combined with other moisturizing ingredients. Our Hyaluronic Body Serum is powered by five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, vegan peptides, and nutrient-rich seaweed for 24 hours of hydration. Our Undaria Algae™ Body Lotion uses a blend of Undaria seaweed, and hyaluronic acid to deliver lasting moisture. Seal in the effects with our Undaria Algae™ Body Oil, which uses a botanical oil blend to replenish dry skin.
How to Apply Hyaluronic Acid
When using a product with hyaluronic acid, there are some tips to follow for the best hydrating results:
- Apply the Serum to Damp Skin: Hyaluronic acid will take whatever moisture it can get. This includes pulling moisture from your skin’s outer layer and drawing into the inner layer. Lightly spritz your face with water to give the serum extra moisture.
- Apply After Potent Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid works wonders when applying it after more potent ingredients like retinol or AHA. Not only does this ensure those products have the maximum impact, but the hyaluronic acid can prevent dryness.
- Use a Moisturizer/Face Oil: Seal in the benefits with a layer of moisturizer or face oil, like our Dayglow Face Oil®, to prevent the hyaluronic serum from evaporating.
Take advantage of this ingredient for your face and body, especially if you live in dry areas, to reap all the hydrating benefits.
Citations
1. Frenkel JS. (2012) The role of hyaluronan in wound healing. International Wound Journal. Retrieved date March 20, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7950635/#!po=67.8571
