What is Hyaluronic Acid: Neutrogena skincare ingredient glossary
by Diana Kelly Levey December 19, 2024
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid (sometimes referred to as HA) is a humectant that keeps skin hydrated, leading to visibly healthier, plumper-looking skin.
It's no surprise why hyaluronic acid is included in many personal care products. You might also see this ingredient listed as hyaluronan or hyaluronate on your product labels.
Hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring in the body. It's involved in diverse biological processes , including cell differentiation; eye, joint and embryo development; inflammation; and wound healing.
You can find hyaluronic acid in different weights, which impact how deep it penetrates the skin. Larger molecules sit on top of the skin's surface, while smaller ones can get deeper into the epidermis.
What Are the Uses of Hyaluronic Acid?
So, what does hyaluronic acid do?
Hyaluronic acid for skin is a powerful plumper. Visible signs of aging are more apparent on dry skin. So, using hyaluronic acid topically can smooth fine lines and wrinkles and improve the texture of dry, crepey skin. One study showed that participants who used hyaluronic acid serum regularly for two months saw significant improvements in skin hydration, moisture, elasticity and the overall appearance of skin aging, including fine lines and wrinkles.
Hyaluronic acid is as well tolerated as it's effective, making it a popular ingredient in lotions, gels, ointments, serums, sunscreens, personal lubricants, eye drops, facial cleansers and more. Dermal fillers, which plump parts of the face and body, can also contain hyaluronic acid.
Researchers have also studied hyaluronic acid for its role in wound healing and inflammation in the body. Specifically, studies show the unique combination of hyaluronic acid and amino acids may speed up healing by improving tissue production and repair.
Where Does Hyaluronic Acid Come From?
This molecule naturally occurs in the human body, but what is hyaluronic acid in skincare? When manufacturers create hyaluronic acid for commercial use in consumer products, it either comes from rooster combs — which contain a high molecular weight of HA — or through bacterial fermentation in a lab.
Bacterial hyaluronan production started in the 1960s for use in viscosurgery to protect eye tissue, arthritis treatment to lubricate arthritic joints, targeted drug delivery systems as a microcapsule and, of course, cosmetics as a hydrating and anti-aging ingredient.
How To Incorporate Hyaluronic Acid Into Your Skincare Routine
Wondering when to apply hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine? Since you can find this ingredient in many products, it's easy to add to your morning or evening regimen. Here are some ways to incorporate HA products throughout the day:
Gently cleanse your face with Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid morning and night for clean, soft skin.
Follow up by applying four to five drops of Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum to the face and neck area for a 24-hour boost of weightless hydration.
Lock in all the goodness with a moisturizer. Try Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50 for hydration plus broad spectrum protection.
In the evening, apply Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair® Regenerating Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Cream + Hyaluronic Acid or Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Night Pressed Face Serum With Hyaluronic Acid to the face and neck to revitalize and restore your skin's moisture barrier and improve skin texture and tone overnight.
