How And When To Use Hyaluronic Acid Against Skin Aging?

Valeria Aberle
5 min readApr 30, 2023

--

The properties of hyaluronic acid to combat skin aging signs are gaining more and more popularity. Previous and recent research also investigate and confirm the effectiveness of hyaluronic products and dermal treatments.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the body that is found in connective tissue, skin, and eyes. It is a type of glycosaminoglycan, which is a molecule that helps to provide structural support to cells and tissues. Hyaluronic acid has the unique ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, which makes it a highly effective hydrating agent. In skincare, hyaluronic acid is used to help plump and moisturize the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.

This glycosaminoglycan together with collagen and elastin builds the extracellular matrix.

As mentioned, Hyaluronan has the ability to absorb water and thus maintains the skin hydrated. This also maintains the structure and composition of the dermis and epidermis and allows for effective nutrient distribution to the skin.

When and why to use hyaluronic acid?

Our body produces its own hyaluronic acid but with age, the production of all: hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin reduces. This is linked to the impaired function of Fibroblasts. These are the cells responsible for the production of these three extracellular components.

Intrinsic and extrinsic factors (UV radiation, smoking, pollution), oxidative stress, DNA damage, inflammation, and AGE, influence the function of fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and melanocytes.

Numerous studies demonstrate the effectiveness of topical hyaluronic acid. In just 8 weeks of use, hyaluronic products mark an increase in skin firmness and elasticity by 50%. (1)

This study, published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, on nano hyaluronic acid, conducted with 33 women at an average age of 45 revealed the following results “The results of the study showed a statistically significant moisturizing effect of the product range (lotion, serum, and cream, after 2,4, and 8 weeks of treatment. Measurement of skin roughness showed a significantly finer skin structure after two weeks of treatment, and skin elasticity showed a significant improvement after 2 and 8 weeks of treatment.” (2)

Skin degeneration and reduced production of collagen begins at around the age of 24 and 25. It is best to start including hyaluronic face gels and serums already at this point.

How to use hyaluronic acid?

Here you may choose to refer to a product that you can directly apply to your face and skin as a daily routine or go for more advanced treatments like hyaluronic fillers.

Hyaluronic fillers are used in cosmetic treatments to combat more advanced skin aging signs. They deeply hydrate the skin, restore the connection between the dermis and epidermis and improve the health and activity of fibroblasts. For this, it is best to go to a qualified cosmetic practitioner that also uses high-quality products. There you will also get consulted on how many procedures you may need and what factors you need to pay attention to after the treatment.

How to achieve maximum effects with topical hyaluronic acid products?

Unfortunately, opposing skin aging will not only resolve with the use of one product. This is why in order to achieve maximum results it is best to combine hyaluronic acid with other cosmetic products.

UV radiation is determined to be the factor contributing to 80% of skin aging based on external factors. This is why another must in an antiaging skincare routine is a UV sunscreen cream. Hyaluronic acid has the ability to bind moisture either from the moisture locked in the air or directly from the skin. For maximum benefit, it is best to apply hyaluronic gels on a clean and wet face.

Another recommended product effective in combating skin aging is Retinol serum. Retinol serums have been studied and proven for their properties in preventing collagen degeneration. Collagen degeneration is caused by factors like UV radiation, pollution, and or chronological intrinsic factors.

Dry skin after applying hyaluronic acid?

Some people report that hyaluronic products do not moisturize their skin as affected. A major reason as already mentioned here is the moisture of the air in the environment they live in.

Being mostly indoors or living in areas with low humidity may influence the effect of hyaluronic acid and live a sensation of dryness. This is why in these cases it is recommended to apply these products on wet skin or combine them with skin moisturizers.

Choosing a hyaluronic acid product?

My favorite hyaluronic gel is the one by hada labob Rotho. A Japanise high-quality brand specializing in hyaluronic products for a long time.

Their product is free of alcohol, fragrances, and mineral oils. This product is based on the combination of 4 different types of Hyaluronic acid including nano Hyaluronic Acid for maximum hydration. They also maintain a reasonable and fair price.

Directly on their website, you may also find more information about the hyaluronic acid types they specifically use (3):

Main points on hyaluronic acid and skin aging

  1. Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan building the extracellular matrix of the skin.
  2. Hyaluronic acid calms skin roughness, and increases skin moisture, elasticity, and optic.
  3. Hyaluronic Acid synthesis drops after the age of 24 -25.
  4. You may refer to topical products with hyaluronic acid or hyaluronic fillers.
  5. Apply hyaluronic acid on wet skin.
  6. Refer to a professional body for treatment with hyaluronic fillers. Do not apply by yourself.
  7. Choose a qualitative hyaluronic acid product like the one of hada labo.
  8. For best results combine with other cosmetic products like retinol serum and sunscreen.
  9. If going for topical solutions. For best results go for a good hyaluronic acid liquid gel for improved hydration combined with a retinol serum which prevents the degeneration of collagen. Also, include a good UV Sunscreen for your skin care.

Disclosure:

Dear Reader, please be informed that this story contains affiliate links. When you buy something using the retail links in this story, I may earn a small commission. This will not lead to any extra charges or increased costs for you.

--

--

Valeria Aberle
Valeria Aberle

Written by Valeria Aberle

Nutrition Science student & Therapist in Germany. I share insights on nutrition, wellness, & health, plus personal experience. https://wildnourish.blogspot.com/

No responses yet