An essential guide to hyaluronic acid-
If you have been following the beauty industry for even a minute you have heard of hyaluronic acid. It’s the stuff that everyone says you need, but what exactly is it, why do we need it and how is it used?
First things first:
What is it?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a water binder and can hold 400 to 1000 times its weight in water – great news for the skin. When used as a serum, it binds hydration to your skin. HA naturally occurs in your body, however due to its proven efficacy it has become a very popular skin care ingredient. It can also be used for nano needling, microneedling procedures, and as an injectable filler. The high water content creates a very favorable environment for the cells allowing them to be healthier.
Where does it come from?
Most HA’s on the market today are from vegan sources, as animal sources are very expensive to make and many people prefer cruelty free products. Although not naturally occuring in plants, Hyaluronic acid is produced during the extraction process. It is then fermented until it reaches the desired molecular weight for skincare. Some HAs are fermented from wheat, so not all HA is gluten free. Always check the labels if you have celiac disease, or avoid wheat. Animal sourced HA usually come from the combs of roosters, although this practice is so rare I could not even find an animal sourced HA serum for sale on the market to include here as an example.
Who should use a HA serum?
Anyone can benefit from using a quality HA serum.
What are some benefits of using a HA serum?
Because HA can hold 400 to 1000 times its weight in water, it is a super hydrator! HAs are great for those with even the driest skin. It reduces the appearance of fine lines as the different molecular weight of the HA “fills in” and plumps the skin. This same action smoothes the skin creating a more pleasant texture. HA improves elasticity.
Is it safe for daily use at home?
Yes, and it can be used by anyone. However, check the label to make sure it does not contain anything you are allergic to or are avoiding.
Sign me up! Where can I buy it?
We carry a few HA products; however; one of the most versatile products we recommend is:
Our new 4D+ Hyaluronic Serum
A potent 4D hyaluronic acid combination of multidimensional molecular weights helps to regenerate, hydrate, and plump skin from the surface through the epidermis and dermis. Natural Arctic Tree extract optimizes performance to soothe damaged skin as well as promote the anti-inflammatory response in sensitive skin.Use twice daily after thorough cleansing and toning. If using alpha or beta-hydroxy acids or retinol, use 4D+ Hyaluronic Serum first and let it absorb before applying other products. May be used under your day or night moisturizer. Use post-treatment to calm & reduce recovery time.High molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid hydrates the skin and helps with barrier repair function as well as firming, lifting, and soothing. Mid molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid penetrates the stratum corneum protecting the skin’s NMF, a natural moisturizing factor.This helps reduce inflammation and irritation as well as restoring moisture in dry, sensitive skin. Low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid penetrates even deeper into the epidermis and upper layer of the dermis and induces the production of natural Hyaluronic Acid in the skin to promote healthy, radiant skin.Sodium Hyaluronate attracts water and moisture into the skin and reduces dryness and flaking. Its lubricating and film-forming properties nourish the skin for long-lasting moisturization. Key Ingredients: Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract – Collagen boosting and marine bio-fermented to improve hydration and barrier function, protect skin from blue light pollution, and provide skin with a natural glow. Picea Abies (Natural Arctic Tree) extract – is a natural ingredient derived from Arctic Trees in the Finnish Lapland. The active has been clinically tested and proven to soothe damaged skin as well as promote the anti-inflammatory response in sensitive skin. Organic Antioxidant Blend – – Fruit extract blend, natural source of lactic, tartaric and malic acid. Provides brightening without irritation.
I hope you had fun reading about one of my favorite skin care ingredients! If you want to try any of our products they are available for sale here. As a special thanks for reading my blog use coupon code BLOG for 15% off your online product order.
