Hyaluronic acid is often used in skincare products because of its well-known ability to keep skin moisturized and hydrated. Using hyaluronic acid regularly is a routine to consider if you want to achieve healthy skin.
In this article, you will find out more about the benefits, how it works, and possible side effects of hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluronic Acid Benefits for Skin
Hyaluronic acid has recently been popularly used in skin care products because it has many benefits including:
- Moisturizes and hydrates the skin
- Slows down premature aging
- Aids in wound healing and scar reduction
- Reduces the depth and lines of facial wrinkles
- Improves skin elasticity
- Helps with facial skin redness
How Hyaluronic Acid Works
In General, Hyaluronic acid contained in skincare products is biotechnologically processed. Its production involves the fermentation of certain bacteria with strains that have been genetically modified. Once the fermentation process is complete, hyaluronic acid is extracted. This process is widely used to produce hyaluronic acid products with molecular weights above 1 MDa, suitable for cosmetic and biomedical use.
In skincare products, hyaluronic acid works in several ways including:
Moisture retention
Hyaluronic acid belongs to sugar molecules called polysaccharides. This complex chain of molecules has many locations where chemical compounds (such as water) can bind, so it attracts and retains moisture on the skin's surface. In addition, hyaluronic acid is also great for delivering other molecules in the body. When used regularly, products containing hyaluronic acid can keep skin hydrated and looking more moisturized.
Fills and softens the skin
Hyaluronic acid can fill the spaces between skin cells, providing a filling effect on fine lines, wrinkles, and rough skin surfaces. With regular use, the skin will have a more supple, smooth, and youthful appearance.
Strengthens the skin barrier
The outermost layer of the skin functions as the skin barrier, protecting the skin from environmental damage and moisture loss. By using skincare products containing hyaluronic acid, the skin barrier will be strengthened, moisture will be increased and transepidermal water loss reduced. Your skin will get additional protection from irritants and environmental factors that can damage the skin.
Side Effects of Using Hyaluronic Acid
In general, the use of hyaluronic acid is considered safe as long as you follow the product usage instructions. Reported allergic reactions are quite rare. However, you still need to be careful before using products containing hyaluronic acid for the first time.
Those with sensitive skin or inflamed acne should do an allergy test before trying any skincare products. It would be better if you consult a doctor before using skincare products to get the treatment that suits your skin condition.
It is advisable to read the instructions on the packaging before using the product. You can also consult a dermatologist or doctor before using products that contain hyaluronic acid. If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr. Siti Marsiana Meriam
Lauren Sharkey (2023). How to Use Hyaluronic Acid the Right Way — and Why You Should. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-to-use-hyaluronic-acid
Cleveland Clinic (2022). Hyaluronic Acid. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22915-hyaluronic-acid
Moira Lawler (2021). Hyaluronic Acid: Definition, Benefits, and the Best Serums. Available from: https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-beauty/hyaluronic-acid-definition-benefits-and-the-best-serums
F.C. of Simple Skincare Science (2023). Why Science Says Hyaluronic Acid Is the Holy Grail to Wrinkle-Free, Youthful Hydration. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/hyaluronic-acid
Jamie Eske (2019). Everything you need to know about hyaluronic acid. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326385