How Does Hyaluronic Acid Help Your Skin?

Hyaluronic acid is the main active ingredient contained in most injectable filler collections, such as Juvéderm®. The Dallas-based team at the Dermatology Office of Dr. Ellen Turner explains that hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar found throughout the body. This clear, gooey substance is present in many systems and organs, including our skin, connective tissues, and eyes.

Effective hyaluronic acid treatments are known for having a smooth, soft, malleable, and gel-like consistency that blends in well and creates natural looking results. Although skin care trends come and go, hyaluronic acid has proven, science-backed benefits and is considered to be one of the best skin care ingredients. It’s a type of humectant, meaning that it falls into a category of skin care ingredients that absorb moisture from their surroundings and boost hydration in the skin. The molecule works by binding to water as a way of retaining moisture. Many serums, moisturizers, and other leave-on products contain hyaluronic acid. If you’re curious about the benefits of hyaluronic acid and how to use it effectively, here’s what you should know about this ingredient.

Makes Skin Healthier and More Elastic

Our skin takes a beating from harsh environmental aggressors including ultraviolet radiation from natural or artificial sources, tobacco smoke, and pollution, as well as the natural aging process. Skin damage and aging lead to reduced amounts of hyaluronic acid in the skin. Skin care products that contain the molecule can help to replenish it. By applying it to the skin topically, taking supplements or having facial fillers injected, you make your skin firmer, flexible, and more youthful looking.

Promotes Wound Healing

Hyaluronic acid is also known for its healing properties. It supports the tissue regeneration process, promotes the production of collagen and elastin, keeps skin moisturized, regulates inflammation, promotes the creation of new blood vessels in the areas that are damaged, and minimizes scarring. When there is damage that needs to be repaired in the skin, the concentration of hyaluronic acid increases. There is evidence to suggest that applying hyaluronic acid may decrease the size of surface wounds and provide relief from pain on those areas. Hyaluronic acid is an antioxidant, meaning it protects the skin from the harmful effects of molecules called free radicals.

Hydrates Your Skin

There’s no disputing that hyaluronic acid is one of the most powerful hydrating ingredients. In fact, it can absorb as much as 1,000 times its own weight in water to keep the outer layers of the skin moisturized. Since it’s so good at retaining water content, it will keep your skin dewy and supple for hours. Wrinkles, fine lines, and redness are reduced when you keep your skin hydrated.

Enhances the Texture of the Skin

Texture changes to the skin are common and result from aging or exposure to other damaging factors. Some studies suggest that by improving the elasticity of the skin, hyaluronic acid can reduce roughness and produce a more even skin texture.

Although hyaluronic acid has all these amazing benefits for your complexion, it can have some negative effects if it’s used incorrectly—such as causing the skin to become even drier than it was before you applied it. There are many forms that hyaluronic acid can be taken, such as by mouth, on the skin, or under the skin with injectable fillers. Different products contain varying amounts of hyaluronic acid and have different effects.

If you’re using hyaluronic acid products, avoid ones that contain harsh ingredients or high acid concentrations. The majority of products contain less than two percent hyaluronic acid. If the humectant levels are too high, the abundance can actually lead to increased water loss from the skin.

Want more advice about injectable fillers? To get more information about Juvéderm®, contact the Dallas-based Dermatology Office of Dr. Ellen Turner. Call (214) 373-7546 or submit a contact form to request a consultation if you’re interested in learning more.