You must have heard everyone in the skincare field raving about this one ingredient called hyaluronic acid. If you are someone, who enjoys skincare or simply likes to take care of their skin once in a while, by now, you must have already purchased a product or two with hyaluronic acid in them. However, do you know what hyaluronic acid is, where it comes from and what are the benefits of this ingredient? Well, you have landed on the right page. Keep reading further to learn everything that you need to know to get the best out of this ingredient.

What is Hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid or hyaluronan or hyaluronate is a group of sugar molecules called polysaccharides. It is a slippery and gooey substance that is naturally produced by our bodies. It can be found throughout our body but is majorly found in the eyes, joints, and skin. The main function of hyaluronic acid in our body is to act as a lubricant for our bones and because it is a humectant, it keeps different parts of our bodies hydrated. 

Where does it come from?

Hyaluronic acid is widely used in the skincare industry. It is used as an ingredient in skincare products for its capacity to retain large quantities of water that helps the skin to stay hydrated and hold moisture. Hyaluronic acid is usually derived by fermenting certain types of bacteria. Rooster combs are also a common source of hyaluronic acid.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

There are many benefits of hyaluronic acid in our bodies. It is present in our joints to move smoothly, keep our eyes hydrated, and prevent the bones in our body to grind against each other.

With age, the production of hyaluronic acid in our bodies keeps decreasing and so we need to use hyaluronic acid-based products to combat different issues. Because of its benefits, hyaluronic acid can be topically used on the skin by anyone belonging to any age group. Some of the benefits of hyaluronic acid are:

1. Hydrates skin: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant which means it can retain a lot of water. A teaspoon of hyaluronic acid can hold more than a gallon of water. Thus, it acts as a very good moisturising ingredient for people with extremely dry skin while promoting healthier skin. 
2. Improves skin texture: Studies have said that hyaluronic acid can help smoothen textured skin, reduce the roughness of skin and increase skin elasticity by moisturising the skin perfectly. 
3. Anti-ageing benefits: Our skin comprises 50% of the total hyaluronic acid in our body. Due to various reasons like environmental conditions, exposure to UV rays, pollution, stress, and unhealthy lifestyle, the amount of hyaluronic acid in our skin may get reduced. These factors may lead to visible signs of ageing. Using hyaluronic acid topically can help combat wrinkles and any other signs of ageing.
4. Heals wounds: Hyaluronic acid in our body helps to maintain moisture in our skin and also helps in the regeneration process when there is a cut or any kind of abrasion on the skin. It can also relieve inflammation and regulate tissue repair.
5. Medical benefits: Because of its healing properties, doctors often use hyaluronic acid to treat various problems such as treating mild to moderate symptoms of eczema and dermatitis, gum diseases, mouth ulcers, dry eyes symptoms, vaginal dryness, etc. 

Types of Hyaluronic acid

There are three types of hyaluronic acid available in skincare products. They are:

1. Hydrolysed hyaluronic acid: This type of hyaluronic acid is broken down into very small elements that can easily penetrate the pores of our skin. It is moderately moisturizing and so it is best suited for people with oily to combination skin as these skin types do not require over-moisturizing.
2. Sodium hyaluronate: This type of hyaluronic acid penetrates deeper into the skin to deliver the best hydration. Despite its capacity to penetrate deep into the skin, the effects aren’t very long-lasting. It is best for people with normal skin as they don’t require heavy-duty and long-lasting moisturiser. A moderate amount of moisturising is enough to keep normal skin types healthy and glowing. 
3. Sodium acetylated hyaluronate: It is the type of hyaluronic acid that gives you the benefits of deep moisturisation with longer-lasting results. It is best suited for people with very dry skin and someone who lacks moisture in their skin. It is also highly beneficial for people living in dry climates and people who are looking for a heavy-duty moisturiser for the dry winter months.

How to use it?

Hyaluronic acid can be found in different forms of skincare products such as face wash, toners, serums, moisturising day creams, nourishing night creams, sleeping gels, lotions, eye creams, etc. You can use these products just like your usual skincare products as hyaluronic acid does not react with any other products. However, it is advised to use just one active ingredient in your skincare routine if you are a beginner. It can be used twice a day in your AM and PM routine for optimum results. 

Side effects of Hyaluronic Acid

Studies say that regular usage of hyaluronic acid topically or orally usually does not have any side effects. It is because hyaluronic acid is naturally found in our body and the hyaluronic acid present in different skincare products, is carefully derived from nature as well. There are very few cases of side effects reported and it is found that the side effects are caused because of other chemical ingredients present in the product. Thus, it is suggested that you purchase only good quality products. There are various good quality products available in the market. For guidance, you can check the amazing products containing hyaluronic acid by Astaberry as they also contain acai berry extracts that can do wonders for the skin.

Now you know the great benefits and the versatility of hyaluronic acid in your skincare products. You can start incorporating it into your AM and PM skincare routine. It is never too late!