What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do for the Skin?

Although it does have acid in its name, it’s very different from glycolic acid or lactic acid, both of which stimulate exfoliation and induce shedding of the outermost layer of dead cells. “Hyaluronic acid is a mucopolysaccharide (sugar molecule) found in the upper and deep levels of the dermis,” says Abdulla. “Along with collagen and elastin, it provides structure and function to the skin.”

Hyaluronic acid is a clear, gooey substance that naturally occurs in the body, with the largest amounts found in skin, connective tissue and eyes. One of its main functions is to help maintain skin elasticity. In fact, it’s produced by fibroblasts, the same cells that make collagen. Although our body makes hyaluronic acid, production slows to a crawl as we age—it typically starts to get sluggish after the age of 30.

Hyaluronic acid is also a humectant, which means it draws moisture from the deepest layers of the skin to the surface, improving its appearance and feel. “Hyaluronic acid acts as a molecular sponge absorbing up to 1,000 times its molecular weight in water,” says Abdulla. Imagine a wet sponge steadily feeding the skin with moisture throughout the day. Essentially that’s what it’s doing, keeping your skin looking fresh by improving the skin’s texture and smoothing fine lines.

If you have dry, dehydrated or mature skin, look to add hyaluronic acid to your skincare routine. In order to reap its benefits, hyaluronic acid is best paired with other sources of hydration, allowing it to drive moisture where it is needed. The most effective way to see results: Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin and then add a moisturizer overtop. The reason? “In order to maximize its benefits, it requires basic hydration levels to pull water into the area,” says Abdulla.

Boost your moisture levels with a hyaluronic acid serum, applied under a hyaluronic acid daily moisturizer. Vichy Minéral 89 has a fresh, gel-like texture and is made with just 11 ingredients, although the stars of the formulation are Vichy Mineralizing Thermal Water, to help improve the skin’s barrier function, and hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate and plump the skin. Next, smooth on a hyaluronic acid serum, applied under a hydrating moisturizer, try Vichy’s Aqualia Thermal Light Cream. Hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient, as are glycerine, sodium PCA and mannose, a sugar that functions as a humectant.

There’s the misconception that people who suffer from acne should steer clear of hydrating or moisturizing ingredients. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Oily and acne-prone skin can suffer from dehydration which can trigger further sebum production and breakouts. We recommend using a daily hyaluronic acid serum.

However, if you’re looking for a daily hyaluronic acid for acne scars try Vichy Minéral 89. This serum will hydrate the skin without clogging pores. Not to mention it hydrates and plumps up the skin. Another option is to get hyaluronic acid dermal filler applied by a trusted cosmetic dermatologist. These hyaluronic acid injectables plump up indented scars and acne-pitted skin. The downside is that the treatment needs to be repeated (every six months) to maintain the outward results.