If there is one ingredient you will find in almost every aesthetician’s skincare lineup, it is mega-hydrator hyaluronic acid.
Known for its ability to support hydration and give the skin a smoother, plumper appearance, hyaluronic acid can work well for almost every skin type. But with products ranging from relatively affordable serums to more advanced professional-grade formulas, it is worth understanding what hyaluronic acid actually does and why different products can vary so much.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid, often referred to as HA, is a substance naturally found in the skin. It acts as a humectant, meaning it attracts and holds onto water.
In skincare, hyaluronic acid is used to help:
- Increase skin hydration
- Support a softer, smoother complexion
- Improve the appearance of dehydration and fine lines
- Give skin a plumper, more supple appearance
Despite the word “acid,” it is not an exfoliating acid like glycolic or salicylic acid. Instead, its primary role in skincare is hydration.
Why Do Aestheticians Love Hyaluronic Acid?
One of the reasons we love hyaluronic acid is its versatility.
It can be incorporated into routines for dry, oily, sensitive, combination and mature skin, and it layers easily alongside many other skincare ingredients.
It is particularly useful when the skin is feeling dry or dehydrated, as well as when supporting the skin before and after certain professional skincare services, depending on your individual treatment plan.
How Should You Use Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is generally applied after cleansing and before heavier creams.
For many HA serums, applying the product to slightly damp skin and following with moisturizer can help support hydration by drawing in water and then helping seal that moisture into the skin.
Your aesthetician can also help determine where an HA product should sit within your existing routine.
Why Does the Price of Hyaluronic Acid Vary So Much?
Seeing “hyaluronic acid” on the ingredient list does not mean every serum is formulated in the same way.
Price can vary depending on factors such as:
- The type and number of forms of hyaluronic acid used
- Additional active ingredients
- The complexity of the formulation
- Delivery and time-release technologies
- Product development, research and testing
That does not mean that everyone needs the most expensive formula.
A simpler HA serum can be an excellent choice for everyday hydration, while a more advanced formula may be appropriate for someone looking for additional ingredients, technologies or skincare benefits.
Both can have a place in a well-designed skincare routine. The right choice depends on your skin, your goals and your budget.
Two Hyaluronic Acid Products We Recommend
Dermaroller Hyaluronic Acid
For clients looking for an accessible way to add hyaluronic acid to their routine, Dermaroller Hyaluronic Acid is a great everyday option.
The formula is designed to provide intensive moisture and support a smoother, fresher-looking complexion.
Why we like it:
- Straightforward daily hydration
- Helps support softer, more supple-looking skin
- An approachable option at a lower price point
SkinMedica HA5
For those looking for a more advanced formulation, SkinMedica HA5 combines five forms of hyaluronic acid with proprietary skincare technology designed to provide both immediate and sustained hydration.
Why we like it:
- Five forms of hyaluronic acid
- Provides immediate and longer-lasting hydration
- Advanced professional-grade formulation and technology
Which Hyaluronic Acid Is Right for You?
There is no single skincare product that is right for everyone.
Sometimes a straightforward hydrating serum is exactly what your skin needs. In other cases, investing in a more complex formulation may make sense based on your skin concerns and the rest of your routine.
At La Peau Skin Lab, we are always happy to help you understand your skincare products, build a routine that makes sense and decide where it is worth investing.
Book a free consultation with one of our qualified medical aestheticians.