‘Hyaluronic’ is the buzzword of the year (and maybe the last five years?!) in skincare. There’s a reason, or a few, why there’s so much hype around it. So, here’s the 101 with everything you need to know about hyaluronic acid.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid (or HA) is a sugar molecule that occurs naturally in our bodies. It holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water to keep our skin hydrated and plump.¹ HA can be found in the extracellular matrix of almost every cell in your body.² The extracellular matrix is all the proteins and molecules that surround, support and give structure to our bodies.³
It is a type of humectant, essentially a substance that keeps things moist. Other humectants include alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid and glycerin - all common skincare ingredients!⁴
Our Restylane® SKINBOOSTERS™ restores your skin's natural composition by boosting its elasticity and hydration, resulting in a noticeable reduction of skin roughness. Your skin becomes smooth and hydrated for a refreshed and healthy look.
How do you pronounce it?
‘HI-YAH-LURE-ON-IC’ acid - yeah, it’s a tough one.
What does hyaluronic acid do?
Hyaluronic acid works with other skin substances, such as collagen and elastin, to maintain hydration, volume and plumpness.⁵
Restylane® SKINBOOSTERS™ gradually builds up your skin’s hydration and smoothness. A typical treatment program starts with three sessions, 4 weeks apart. Initial results can be noticed after the first session, but the full effect will be visible after the last one.⁶ After these initial treatments, a maintenance treatment is typically recommended every 4-6 months to ensure lasting results.7
Why do we need hyaluronic acid?
As we age and with repeated exposure to UV rays, the hyaluronic acid in our skin breaks down, leading to the formation of lines, wrinkles and dry skin, causing us to lose our natural radiance. It’s important to try and maintain hyaluronic acid through external measures to prevent water loss from the skin and preserve hydration - thereby reducing these common skin concerns.¹
How should you use hyaluronic acid?
The most common use of hyaluronic acid in skincare is topical, where it is applied to the skin's surface in the AM or PM as part of a daily skincare routine. You can purchase hyaluronic acid in the form of serums, moisturisers, creams, sheet-masks and even lip balms.⁸ While topical humectants cannot increase the amount of hyaluronic acid inside the skin, they are often combined with emollients and are a great way to reduce water loss.¹
Some believe that to more effectively restore the skin’s inner hydrobalance, you need to consider hyaluronic acid in an injectable form. These products get below the skin's surface, penetrating through the epidermis (the outer, protective layer of the skin) to deeply hydrate from within.¹
Hyaluronic acid injectables are more commonly known as ‘dermal fillers’. The injections contain a gel of stabilised hyaluronic acid that can last several months to years, helping to restore facial contours, smooth fine lines, and improve skin radiance. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner to learn what's best for you.¹
References:
¹ Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/hyaluronic-acid (accessed 17 August 2022)
² Harper's Bazaar, https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/skin-care/a31116680/are-you-misusing-hyaluronic-acid/ (accessed 26 July 2022)
³ Cancer.gov, https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/extracellular-matrix (accessed 26 July 2022)
⁴ Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/humectant#examples (accessed 26 July 2022)
⁵ Medical News Today, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317151 (accessed 30 August 2022)
6 Nikolis A and Enright KM. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2018;11:467-475. (accessed 26 July 2022)
7 Restylane Skinboosters Vital IFU.
⁸ Harvard University, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-hype-on-hyaluronic-acid-2020012318653 (accessed 26 July 2022)
NZ-DYS-2200016, TAPS NP18390. September 2022.