Hyaluronic Acid Benefits: The Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums

Have you been paying attention to skin care ingredients lately? Then probably hyaluronic acid everywhere. No clue what exactly it is, what it’s used for, or who it’s best suited for? You’re not alone. If you find the word acid worrying.

What exactly is hyaluronic acid?

“While this ingredient is by no means new, it has become popular because of its seemingly endless list of benefits and mostly because it works well for everyone,” says the board-certified dermatologist and founder. DermStore Alan J. Parks. “Hyaluronic acid (HA) has powerful anti-aging properties and is one of the leading moisturizing ingredients for skin no matter your skin type. HA is something that occurs naturally in the body, and more than 50 percent of the body’s HA is found in skin tissue. Its most unique feature “It can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, which makes it extraordinarily hydrating.”

If we already have hyaluronic acid naturally in our body, why do we need to buy products containing it?

“Hyaluronic acid is responsible for keeping the skin moist and soft. It also helps prevent the breakdown of collagen and elastin. It makes us look younger while performing these functions at maximum capacity. But as we age, HA levels in our bodies begin to decline,” Parks explains. “Once this happens, you will begin to notice visible signs of aging, including dryness and loss of moisture, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture and loss of firmness.”

What is the best way to deliver hyaluronic acid to the skin?

The good news is that even if natural hyaluronic acid production begins to slow, you can incorporate HA into your skincare regimen to compensate for this loss. Either topically or by injection. Using a topical product (via creams or serums) containing this star ingredient will keep skin hydrated and plump. Not to mention preventing visible signs of aging and generally making skin look younger and feel smoother and tighter.

According to Parks, HA also protects from environmental damage and the sun’s harmful UVB rays. “Topical HA products will have lower molecular weights to allow them to travel through the layers of the skin while simultaneously moisturizing the top layer of skin. If you’re using a topical HA product, it’s best to avoid those that also contain alcohol, parabens, sulfates, or other skin-harming ingredients.

As for hyaluronic acid injections, also known as dermal fillers (think JUVÉDERM and Restylane), these are very popular for the face (around the mouth, eyes, lips and cheeks) because they look natural. They are also safe. Parks says results can last up to a year, but should be repeated every 3 to 12 months to maintain results. “HA injectables are much safer than collagen injectables as they last longer and do not require any prior allergy testing. Using an injectable hyaluronic acid will plump your skin, but in a very natural-looking way.”

Is hyaluronic acid safe for everyone?

What makes HA relatively unique is that it’s not just a powerful anti-aging ingredient, it’s good for all skin types. Plus, it’s safe for almost anyone to use. If you have combination to oily skin, hyaluronic acid serum will be best for you as they are lightweight and will give you moisturizing benefits without adding any extra oiliness to the skin. Hyaluronic acid can be used on even the most sensitive or redness-prone skin. With its calming and soothing properties, it is perfect for skin prone to irritation and even acne,” says Parks.

We asked Parks to share some of her favorite hyaluronic acid product recommendations.

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