Hyaluronic acid is the hottest ingredient in skincare right now.
But how well does it actually work?
Hyaluronic acid (HA). This stuff is everywhere. It is not just the main ingredient in injectable fillers (Juvederm, Belotero, Restylane). You can find it in topical serums, lotions and creams. And HA is making its way into lipstick, blush, foundation and primer too. Something so popular has to do amazing things for your skin. Correct?
Well, sort of. Our clients have been dabbling with hyaluronic acid for a couple of years now with uncertain results. And finally we figured out why. If you’ve been on the fence about it too, or are just curious about this, read on to find out what it does and how to use it.
WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID? 
It’s time to get all science up in here. Hyaluronic acid is not an acid in the same sense as popular ones like lactic, glycolic or salicylic, which are used in chemical peels or as exfoliators.
Hyaluronic acid doesn’t do that. It is a naturally-occurring substance found in the human body, and acts as a cushioning and lubrication agent for our skin, joints, eyes etc.
About 50 percent of the HA body’s supply is located in the skin, where the viscous, jelly-like HA helps keep it plump, soft and supple. Our ability to produce hyaluronic acid declines with age, which can lead to skin dryness, fine lines, wrinkles and finally – sagging.
So that’s one reason why skincare and cosmetic companies are encouraging us to use their synthetic hyaluronic acid products. They claim these products help to replenish our lost stores of HA.
WHY HYALURONIC ACID MAKES A GREAT INJECTABLE FILLER
We will not go into details about hyaluronic acid as a dermal filler. But if that kind of thing is up your alley, there is a lot to love about it.
The popularity of hyaluronic acid in topical skincare definitely stems from its use in cosmetic procedures, where it has replaced collagen as the ingredient of choice for restoring lost volume. Popular fillers like Restylane, Belotero and Juvéderm work like sponges once they’re injected, swelling up with water to create a plumper look.
There is also a clear scientific evidence that injectable hyaluronic acid stimulates collagen production, prevents skin aging and maintains a natural beauty of your face.
WHY HYALURONIC ACID MAKES A NOT-SO-GREAT CREAMS, SERUMS AND LOTIONS 
It’s a serious misconception about HA benefits in topical cosmetic products. Yes, it may hydrate superficial layer of skin and make fine lines less noticeable. But if we’re talking about plumping the skin by stimulating collagen or replacing the HA you have lost, then unfortunately, answer is – no.
Hyaluronic acid molecules are simply TOO BIG to pass through the epidermis.
Again ,when you apply it topically, the HA molecule is too big to get through your skin. So when we inject it to fill a wrinkle or line it works well. But when you put it on topically it’s a misconception that it’s all going into the skin. It forms a barrier on the skin and gives a soft moisturizing effect that makes skin smoother. But it doesn’t eliminate wrinkles.
Hyaluronic acid is an anti-aging ingredient only when it bypasses the epidermis with a needle. Get the most out of it. Have it injected!
