Hyaluronic acid (HA) has become one of the most celebrated skincare ingredients in recent years and for good reason. Itās widely used in serums, creams, and moisturizers precisely because of its ability to support skin hydration and improve the overall look and feel of the skin. But what does the science really say about how HA works, and why should you consider including it in your skincare routine?
What Is Hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the human body, especially abundant in connective tissues and the skin. It belongs to a class of molecules called glycosaminoglycans, and one of its most remarkable features is its ability to bind and retain water. HAās unique structure allows it to attract water molecules and hold onto them, contributing to skin hydration and elasticity.Ā
How It works on the skin?
When applied topically, hyaluronic acid remains in the upper layers of the skin where it draws moisture from both the environment and deeper skin layers. This moisture-attracting property helps create a more hydrated and plumped skin surface, which can lead to smoother texture and a visibly healthier complexion.Ā
Research has shown that topical HA can increase skin hydration, often quantified through measures like corneometry, which assesses moisture levels in the skinās outer layers. In clinical settings, HA serums have demonstrated improvements in hydration and skin texture compared to untreated skin.Ā
Hydration, plumping, and beyond
Because HA helps the skin retain moisture, it also supports the appearance of plumping and softer fine lines. While HA does not permanently alter skin structure, increased hydration can temporarily make fine lines and wrinkles appear less noticeable.Ā
Some studies suggest that using forms of HA with different molecular weights may provide benefits at various depths of the skin. For example, high-molecular-weight HA tends to sit on the skinās surface and help prevent water loss, while lower-molecular-weight HA may penetrate more deeply within the epidermis.Ā
Scientific support
Several reviews and clinical studies support the use of HA in topical skincare for improving hydration and aspects of skin quality. One literature review concluded that HA-based products are effective non-invasive options to enhance skin hydration and rejuvenation.Ā
Why itās particularly useful in winter?
During cold weather and heating season, ambient humidity drops and indoor heating dries the air - both of which can increase transepidermal water loss from the skin. Since hyaluronic acid excels at attracting and holding moisture, it becomes a valuable ingredient for helping counterbalance seasonal dehydration. Paired with occlusive or barrier-supporting ingredients (like ceramides or squalane), HA can help maintain a more comfortable, hydrated skin feel even in harsher conditions.Ā
How to use Hyaluronic acid effectively?
Dermatologists often recommend applying HA products on slightly damp skin immediately after cleansing, then following with a moisturizer. This layering helps ālock inā the hydration that HA attracts.Ā
Safety and suitability
Topical hyaluronic acid is considered safe for most skin types, including sensitive skin, and has a generally gentle profile. While it improves hydration and can visually smooth skin texture, it should not be thought of as a stand-alone solution for every skin concern - pairing it with complementary skincare steps helps maximize benefits.
At PuracosaĀ
At Puracosa, we consider hyaluronic acid a winter-essential because it helps the skin hold onto water - supporting a more comfortable feel, a smoother surface, and that āwell-restedā look even when cold weather, indoor heating, and year-end stress are working against you.
How we like to use it in a routine:
Step 1: Hydration layer (serum). Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to slightly damp skin after cleansing to maximize moisture binding.
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Step 2: Eye area support (eye cream). Gently tap Vielƶ Eye Cream (contains hyaluronic acid) around the orbital bone to help the delicate eye area feel more comfortable and hydrated.
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Step 3: Lock it in (cream). Follow with a moisturizer to help reduce water loss and keep skin feeling supple throughout the day.
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Step 4: Night support (optional). In the evening, pair HA with a richer night cream for extra comfortāespecially if your skin feels tight or looks dull in winter.
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