If you have dry skin (or skin that’s oily, normal, sensitive, or any combination of these), you’ve probably heard that your skin would benefit from facial oil (you know, the skincare product that’s ubiquitous these days). Although it may seem like a stretch that a single ingredient could bestow so many benefits to all skin types, some ingredients really are multitasking heroes. Case and point: Hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluronic acid (or sodium hyaluronate) is considered a “skin-identical” or “skin-repairing” ingredient. In other words, it’s a substance that’s naturally produced in skin tissue and vital for healthy skin functioning. Like mortar between bricks, hyaluronic acid and its fellow skin-identical ingredients exist between skin cells, keeping them connected in order to maintain a healthy skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier makes for a smooth and even-toned skin surface—and it’s also critical in wound healing and the prevention of environmental damage.
More specifically, hyaluronic acid is essential for supporting healthy moisture balance and preventing moisture loss by helping your skin absorb and retain atmospheric moisture (and moisture already present in the skin). A healthy moisture balance is important not only for keeping skin looking its best but also preventing infection, premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and other unwanted effects of dry skin. This soothing ingredient is also celebrated for its ability to restore plumpness and glow to weary skin. When skin subtly swells (in a good way) with moisture, the appearance of fine line are diminished, hence the pleasant plumpness associated with hyaluronic acid.
Unfortunately, aging, inflammatory skin conditions, and environmental factors can deplete this naturally-occurring substance. Given that none of us have perfect skin or living conditions—pollution and UV exposure can try even the healthiest of skin—we should all try to incorporate hyaluronic acid into our skincare regimens. The good news, however, is that infusing skin with hyaluronic acid isn’t too difficult. It’s present in several moisturizers, toners, serums, and foundations, including a Peaceful Dumpling favorite, Andalou Naturals 1,000 Roses Floral Toner.
After a bought of irritated, dull skin, I sought refuge in a simple serum with soothing ingredients (like aloe) and a high concentration of hyaluronic acid. Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum is a blend of aloe, vegan-sourced hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. In addition to using my favorite floral toner, I apply this clear serum each morning and follow with my regular moisturizer (the serum may be used alone or under other skincare products–and even as a makeup primer).
Since become more aware of hyaluronic acid (and more diligent about incorporating it into my skincare regimen), I’ve noticed that my skin seems more resilient to everyday stressors and less likely to feel tight and uncomfortable, which has made a big difference when it comes to wearing makeup in fact! (Nothing is worse than foundation sitting on dry flaky skin!).
While hyaluronic acid alone cannot perform miracles, it’s certainly a smart ingredient to include in a well-rounded skincare routine. If you have dry skin, its benefits are obvious. If you experience the occasional breakout (also like me), your skin will thank you for including this anti-inflammatory ingredient.
Do you incorporate hyaluronic acid into your skincare regimen? If so, what are your favorite hyaluronic acid skincare products? Let us know in the comments!
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More in skincare: Are Silicones Causing Your Adult Acne?
Microbead Alternatives For Scrub & Re-Thinking Exfoliation
Skin Benefits of Vegan Squalene
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Photos: Mary Hood Luttrell
