When it comes to hydration in skincare, few ingredients have gained as much trust and popularity as Hyaluronic Acid. It’s found in everything from serums and moisturisers to sheet masks and injectable treatments — and for good reason. Known for its ability to retain moisture like no other, Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a go-to ingredient for both everyday skincare and professional treatments.
But what exactly is it? How does it work? And how can it be used most effectively within a skincare routine?
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring sugar molecule found in the skin, connective tissues, and eyes. Its primary function? To retain water — and lots of it. In fact, just one gram of hyaluronic acid can hold up to six litres of water.
In skincare, it’s used as a humectant — meaning it draws moisture from the surrounding environment into the skin. This makes it ideal for replenishing hydration, improving plumpness, and softening fine lines.
It’s important to note that most products today use Sodium Hyaluronate, a salt form of HA that’s more stable and better able to penetrate the skin.
How Does It Work?
Hyaluronic Acid binds to water molecules and helps maintain the skin’s hydration levels. When applied topically, it forms a lightweight film over the skin or penetrates into its upper layers (depending on molecular size), drawing in moisture and improving suppleness.
In professional skincare, multi-molecular HA is often used — combining high, medium, and low molecular weightsto hydrate both the skin’s surface and deeper layers.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid Good For?
Hyaluronic Acid is a multi-benefit powerhouse. It’s suitable for nearly all skin types and plays well in most routines. Here’s what it does best:
- Deep hydration – pulls moisture into the skin, preventing trans-epidermal water loss
- Improved elasticity – hydrated skin appears firmer and more youthful
- Soothing effect – reduces redness and supports barrier function
- Enhanced absorption – helps deliver other active ingredients deeper into the skin
- Fine line reduction – plumps up skin to temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines
It’s especially effective in dry, dehydrated, or mature skin, but also helps oily or acne-prone skin stay balanced without clogging pores.
Are There Any Downsides?
While hyaluronic acid is well-tolerated by most, there are a few points to be aware of:
- In very dry environments (such as centrally heated rooms or low-humidity climates), HA may pull water from within the skin instead of the air — potentially worsening dehydration.
- Applying HA to dry skin without sealing it in with a moisturiser can result in temporary tightness or dryness.
- It’s not an exfoliant, so it won’t help with congestion, acne, or pigmentation directly.
How to Introduce Hyaluronic Acid Into Your Routine
Hyaluronic Acid can be used daily and is usually found in serums, mists, toners, ampoules, or moisturisers. Here’s how to introduce it properly:
- Apply to damp skin: After cleansing or misting, apply a hyaluronic acid serum while the skin is still slightly moist.
- Follow with a moisturiser: Always seal in HA with an emollient or moisturising cream to prevent it from evaporating.
- Use AM and/or PM: It’s gentle enough for twice-daily use.
- Professional treatments: Look for HA-rich ampoules or masks in facial treatments for enhanced plumping and hydration effects.
Selected Few Hyaluronic Acid Rich Products
What Works Well With Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic Acid pairs well with most skincare actives. Some particularly effective combinations include:
- Niacinamide: Both support barrier health and hydration
- Vitamin C: HA enhances absorption while Vitamin C brightens and protects
- Ceramides: Seal in the hydration provided by HA and strengthen the skin barrier
- Peptides: Boosts firmness and elasticity when used with HA
- Retinoids: HA counteracts dryness and irritation that may be caused by retinoids
What Doesn’t Pair Well?
There are no major contraindications, but a few considerations:
- Avoid layering too many humectants (like glycerin, urea, and HA) in low-humidity environments without sealing them in. This can result in water loss.
- Overusing high-molecular-weight HA may leave a sticky or tight feeling on the skin if not properly followed with moisturiser.
Final Thoughts
Hyaluronic Acid has earned its reputation for a reason: it’s versatile, effective, and deeply hydrating. Whether you’re building a skincare routine at home or planning professional in-salon treatments, HA is a foundational ingredient that benefits nearly every skin type.
Used correctly and consistently, it brings life back to dehydrated skin, supports barrier repair, and amplifies the effects of other key actives — making it one of the most valuable tools in any skincare professional’s arsenal.
