Hyaluronic Acid Cream Is a Major Face Saver—Here’s Why

You’ve probably seen the term “hyaluronic acid” thrown around while flipping through your favourite magazine, scrolling Instagram for beauty tips or shopping for anti-aging cream at your local drugstore—but how much do you really know about the popular skincare ingredient? Hyaluronic acid moisturizers, creams and serums have gained big buzz over the past few years for the ways it improves the look and health of dehydrated and aging skin, but before you give it a shot, here’s your complete guide to the star molecule—from its definition and benefits to how it feels when it’s applied.

What is hyaluronic acid?

From a scientific perspective, hyaluronic acid is an “anionic, non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan”—some fancy lingo that basically means it’s a long chain of unbranched polysaccharides (carbohydrates made up of sugar molecules). HA, as it’s sometimes called, can be found naturally in many parts of the human body, from the skin and eyes to the fluid around the joints. What hyaluronic acid does that’s so unique is binds and retains up to 1,000 times its weight in water and has a plumping, cushioning and lubricating effect. The body’s HA even activates inflammatory cells to enhance immune response when tissue is wounded.

""="">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/

How does hyaluronic acid benefit your skin?

As skin ages and is exposed to external aggressors such as ultraviolet radiation from the sun, the epidermis and dermis lose water and become dehydrated (and your complexion starts to look tired, dry and criss-crossed with fine lines), but you can combat these signs of aging! If you add a hyaluronic acid cream that has been specially formulated for face care into your daily routine, you’ll help repair the skin’s barrier and attract water to the surface, which results in a plump, younger-looking skin (buh-bye, volume loss and wrinkles!) and the appearance of better hydration…a.k.a. more-youthful skin!

Does hyaluronic acid have side effects for your skin?

Though it’s technically called an acid, hyaluronic acid skin-care products are very different from others with glycolic or lactic acids, which are typically used to exfoliate dead skin cells and can cause irritation when used in high doses. Since HA occurs naturally in the body, it won’t hurt your face or cause an itching or burning sensation. In fact, it’s cool, calming and almost feels like water.

How to apply hyaluronic acid on your face

Whether you prefer a hyaluronic acid moisturizer, lotion or serum (or even two of the three!), there are several ways you can integrate the ingredient into your anti-aging skin-care regimen and reap the benefits.

• "="">L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power LZR Serum

  This hyaluronic acid serum for your face is formulated for use after cleansing and toning (but before moisturizer). It combines three star ingredients to promote anti-aging: HA to plump and improve elasticity, lipo hydroxy acid (LHA) to exfoliate for smooth texture and even tone and ProXylane to revolumize and strengthen skin.

• "="">L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power LZR Day Moisturizer SPF 20

  If you are looking for a product with hyaluronic acid for oily skin, or you simply prefer a super-lightweight fluid instead of a cream, this lotion is for you. It features hyaluronic acid to plump sagging skin, fill fine lines and fight signs of aging, as well as ProXylane to strengthen and add volume. Plus, it contains a broad-spectrum SPF 20 so you can cut down on the number of products in your arsenal. Pair it with Revitalift Triple Power LZR Serum for extra potency.

• "="">L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power LZR Day Moisturizer

  If you want hyaluronic acid for your dry skin, or you prefer a hyaluronic acid moisturizer, use Revitalift Triple Power LZR Day Cream instead of the lotion. It contains hyaluronic acid and ProXylane and quickly absorbs into the surface and upper layers of the skin to plump, minimize wrinkles and improve elasticity. Though it’s extremely moisturizing and ideal for parched skin, this anti-wrinkle cream isn’t heavy. It can be used with Revitalift Triple Power LZR Serum and should be followed with sunscreen for complete protection.

There you have it! All the reasons why hyaluronic acid for skin may be something you want to try for yourself. Because we all like to look our best, and HA can make it happen.