Contents
We recall what hyaluronic acid is, what benefits it brings to the skin and how its deficiency will affect your face. And at the same time we find out how urgently you need a serum based on this substance.
What is Hyaluronic Acid
From the point of view of chemistry, it is a polysaccharide, which is distinguished by the unique ability to attract and retain an amount of water many times greater than its own weight.
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in human tissues, in particular in the skin of the face. “This is the main substance of the extracellular matrix, in which the cells of the epidermis and dermis are located,” says Noel Schwartz, a dermatologist-esthetician with 20 years of experience.
Check if your skin is dehydrated.
Types of hyaluronic acid
Synthesized hyaluronic acid is used in modern cosmetics. There are two main types of it.
High molecular weight (Hyaluronic Acid)
It is distinguished by large molecules, which, due to their bulkiness, cannot overcome the epidermal barrier and moisturize the uppermost layer of the skin, attracting moisture from the air and forming a protective hydrophilic film on the surface. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid is indicated for dehydrated skin, as well as after peelings and other aesthetic procedures traumatic for the skin.
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (Sodium Hyaluronate)
It is used in cosmetology for injection correction of wrinkles. As part of serums, it works in all layers of the epidermis, attracting moisture like a magnet, straightening wrinkles and increasing skin elasticity. It is low molecular weight hyaluronic acid that is used in topical serums to fill wrinkles. It is also used to prolong the effect of “beauty injections”.
The benefits of hyaluronic acid for the skin
In addition to moisturizing the skin, hyaluronic acid is responsible for its density and elasticity. It is involved in the synthesis of collagen and protects cells from free radicals. Own hyaluronic acid in the human body is quite small (15 grams for a person weighing 70 kg), in addition, it has a short life cycle: from 30% to 50% of hyaluronic acid breaks down every 24 hours.
A few drops are enough to moisturize the skin and correct wrinkles. With hyaluronic acid
In addition, the rate of its production in the skin decreases with age and is minimized by the age of 40. But the main enemy of hyaluronic acid is not so much age as aggressive environmental factors. Especially solar radiation, which destroys hyaluronic acid.
After the age of 20, the skin’s own reserves of hyaluronic acid begin to gradually decrease, which over time leads not only to dryness, but also to the formation of wrinkles.
Signs that indicate that your own reserves of hyaluronic acid have run out, and the skin needs to be recharged from the outside:
dryness;
peeling;
uneven texture;
skin sensitivity;
reduced turgor;
dullness;
wrinkles.
Serums with hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid often appears in the composition of cosmetics of different categories – from day cream to facial wash. These products maintain the optimal level of moisture in the skin, if it does not suffer from dehydration.
But if there are signs of a prolonged “drought” and the skin needs to be urgently saved, the usual means of daily care cannot be dispensed with. You will need more powerful cosmetics that will purposefully fight the cause of the problem – and hyaluronic serum will come in handy here.
Serums containing two types of hyaluronic acid – high molecular weight and low molecular weight – have a multidirectional effect on the skin:
moisturize inside and out;
increase tone;
fill in wrinkles.
As part of serums, hyaluronic acid does not always act solo and is often supplemented with other components (usually no more than three), for example, vitamins and plant extracts. They enhance the moisturizing effect, maintain a high level of moisture and ensure deeper penetration of active ingredients into the skin.
Hyaluronic acid is a water-soluble element, serums based on it have a light, non-greasy gel-like texture that is comfortable for any skin type.
Rules of application
In the case of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, it is important where and at what moment you apply it. Large molecules remain on the surface of the epidermis and attract water from the environment. If the air in the room is dry, then hyaluronic acid will begin to draw moisture from the skin, creating a feeling of tightness.
In Asia, where it is warm and humid, such problems do not arise, so hyaluronic serums are very popular there. In Russia, a humid environment for hyaluronic acid has to be created, especially in cold and hot seasons. But it is not necessary to go to the bathhouse or hammam for this.
Serum with high molecular weight hyaluronic acid
Apply immediately after bathing or showering while steam lingers in the bathroom – an ideal environment for molecules that draw moisture to the surface of the skin.
When using serum with low molecular weight hyaluronic acid
it is important to maintain a drinking regimen, drinking at least 1,5 liters of water per day to saturate body tissues with moisture. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin, where the skin’s water reserves become the main hydrosource for its molecules.
Before applying the topical wrinkle filling serum (filler),
drink a glass of water for a quick and noticeable effect. It is recommended to do this in advance – about ten minutes before using the product.
Feature of application
Serums based on hyaluronic acid love moisture, because they “feed” on it and do not like solar radiation, which destroys them. Consider these features to get the most out of the product.
Hyaluronic serums do not have clear age restrictions, they are applied as needed.
You can use them all year round.
It is necessary to apply such serums twice a day – under a cream or independently.
They are suitable for moisturizing the skin of the face, neck and décolleté.
Hyaluronic serums have no contraindications, with the exception of individual intolerance to the components.
Review
Corrective serum to increase the content of hyaluronic acid in the skin HA Intensifier, SkinCeuticals
Three forms of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weight (high molecular weight, fragmented, encapsulated) moisturize the skin at different levels, reduce wrinkles and fight skin laxity.
- Serum “Revitalift Filler” for face and neck, L’Oréal Paris
The effect of a new generation serum with 1,5% pure hyaluronic acid can be compared to the result of a filler injection. The tool fills wrinkles (including around the eyes) and replenishes the missing volumes of the face, saturating the skin with life-giving moisture.
Hyaluronic serum-filler LiftActive Supreme long-acting, Vichy
Designed to compensate for the deficiency of hyaluronic acid, which is formed in the skin with age. Effectively resists wrinkles and moisture loss. Suitable not only for the face, but also for the area around the eyes.
Concentrated serum to improve firmness, skin tone and elasticity of the skin Hyalu B5, La Roche-Posay
contains both two types of hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and madecassoside, which stimulates the production of collagen.
Serum Concentrate Mineral 89 Probiotic Fractions, Vichy
addressed to skin that has been stressed and looks tired. The product is 89% composed of Vichy thermal water (15 minerals and trace elements), as well as a probiotic and hyaluronic acid fraction that strengthens the skin barrier.