Hyaluronic acid has entered our skin care routines with the promise to instantly plump and hydrate even the most Sahara Desert-esque faces, and help us glow like we’ve actually drunk the daily three litres of water that’s been on our New Year’s resolution list for the last 20 years.
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But while you may have done the research on all the glorious benefits HA has to offer, purchased the product most suited to your needs, and wowed your friends with your impressive knowledge that hyaluronic acid can hold 100x its weight in water – there’s still a chance you aren’t actually applying it correctly.
And no, this has nothing to do with the order of product layering, as HA will play nicely with retinol, vitamins and other acids. (link to skincare order article) It’s far more simple than that.
HA is a powerful humectant, which means it has really strong capabilities of retaining moisture (remember that impressive holding 100x its weight in water fact?).
Basically, it’s a moisture magnet – amazing right? If you’re applying it to damp skin, then yes.
However, if you’re applying it to dry skin, then you’ll actually be doing more damage in the long run, as the hyaluronic acid will seek to pull moisture from the deeper layers of your skin, which can cause a drying effect over time.
In order for this ‘moisture magnet’ to work its magic properly, you need to ensure you’re applying it to already damp skin so that it can pull water molecules from the surface only. Then you’ll really see what this ingredient can do.
Haven’t quite settled on a hyaluronic acid yet? We suggest Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster,La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Ageing Serum and Trilogy’s Hyaluronic Acid + Booster Treatment.
Main image credit: @poosh
Do you use hyaluronic acid? If so, have you been applying it to damp or dry skin?
HA serum has improved my skin so much. I always thought having oily skin i did not need it. But surprised how good my skin is now after using HA.
I use HA serums daily, it’s made a big difference to my skin.
Using this on my skin has really helped.
great tips!
I’ve never used HA, but I did know you’re supposed to apply it to damp skin.