What is Hyaluronic Acid and How To Use for Best Results

Why is there an obsession with hyaluronic acid (HA), and what makes it stand out amongst the skincare products?
I love to use serum after cleansing my face in the morning. About six years ago, I found a brand called La Roche Posay and fell in love with their skincare products. I love that these have never given me any allergies, and it works wonders on my combination skin!
One of their products is Hyalub5, a costly serum at GBP45 for 30ml, but stay tuned for my newest discovery of another HA serum as a fantastic alternative at a lower cost from a trusted brand. 
HyaluB5 consists of hyaluronic acid, which gives us plump, hydrated skin and improved elasticity. 
HA is now found in many skincare products, including masks, scrubs, serum, lotions…That is because of its efficacy and proven results. 

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

HA is a linear polysaccharide with a disaccharide, essentially a group of sugar molecules. Our body has a similar set of HA molecules, decreasing with age. Additionally to the age factor, smoking, air pollution, and other factors also affect loss of skin elasticity.
Dr Lily Talakoub says, “Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance found naturally in our skin that holds water and helps keep it hydrated and plump. The molecule holds a thousand times its weight in water to not only retain all that moisture in our skin, but also prevent all that moisture from evaporating into the air”.
“Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds to water molecules and increases the water content of the skin,” It can absorb more than 1,000 times its weight in water,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. Quotes are from the source.

How do I use it?

After cleansing my face with a rice-based powder exfoliator (read about it in my post here). I love to use one or two pumps of the product, and rather than massage, I pat it into my skin, neck, and neckline. Any leftover serum I put onto my knees and elbows.
The serum is light, and within a minute, I can continue with my eye cream and day cream (with SPF).
But wait, what about that alternative mentioned?
Yes, I have used the La Roche Posay for many years, and of course, if the price is right, I will buy it. However, at a full price of GBP 45 for 30ml, it is an expensive product (although it lasts about two months).
I have recently bought the HA by Boots ingredients GBP 5 for 30ml. I am not sure why the review score is not high. For me, this serum is a great alternative and for a much better price. I have not had any allergies so far, and it seems to work great. It is five times cheaper!

8 Reasons to Use Hyaluronic Acid

1. Hydration and Moisture Retention:
   • HA is a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains water. As skin ages, it tends to lose moisture, leading to dryness and the appearance of fine lines. Hyaluronic acid helps replenish and maintain hydration, improving skin texture and reducing the visible signs of dryness.
2. Plumping and Smoothing Fine Lines:
   • One of the key benefits of hyaluronic acid is its ability to plump the skin. When applied topically or used in injectable fillers, it helps to fill in fine lines and wrinkles, creating a smoother and more youthful appearance.
3. Collagen Production:
   • HA can stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and firmness to the skin. As collagen production naturally declines with age, using hyaluronic acid can help support collagen synthesis and maintain skin elasticity.
4. Reducing the Appearance of Wrinkles:
   • By improving skin hydration and supporting collagen production, hyaluronic acid contributes to reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It gives the skin a more supple and youthful look.
5. Enhancing Skin Elasticity:
   • Elasticity is essential for maintaining skin firmness and resilience. Hyaluronic acid helps improve skin elasticity by promoting hydration and supporting the skin’s natural ability to bounce back.
6. Protection Against Environmental Stressors:
   • HA acts as a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, helping to shield it from environmental pollutants and free radicals. This can contribute to preventing premature ageing caused by external factors.
7. Compatibility with Other Skincare Ingredients:
   • Hyaluronic acid is generally well-tolerated and can be easily incorporated into skincare routines. It complements other active ingredients, making it a versatile choice for various skincare regimens.
8. Non-comedogenic and Suitable for Most Skin Types:
   • Hyaluronic acid is non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores. It is suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and oily skin, making it a versatile option for those looking to address ageing concerns.

When I worked in the cosmetic industry, the price of glass in comparison to plastic packaging was many times higher; we talked about a 5 p to 2 pounds difference. Plastic is much cheaper, and so in my view, the products are cheaper to produce and price. I do believe in both products, but for now, I will use the HA by Boots ingredients, save money, and invest in something worthy.  

 #HyaluronicAcidSerum  #LaRochePosay