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HYALURONIC ACID FOR SKIN: HOW DOES IT WORK?

HYALURONIC ACID FOR SKIN: HOW DOES IT WORK?

Like some of the other hero ingredients used in Lancôme’s luxury skincare, hyaluronic acid is produced naturally by our bodies. Hyaluronic acid benefits for skin are essential to a radiant and firmed complexion, but unfortunately, the presence of this hydrating molecule decreases from our 20s onwards.

By supplementing hyaluronic acid for skin via your skincare routine, you can regain and promote a bouncy and plump complexion. How does hyaluronic acid work? To help you get the most out of this mainstay of the skincare world, we breakdown the functions and benefits of the ingredient, and show which of your current products complement it.

Read ahead to see the best uses of hyaluronic acid for dry skin, oily skin and sensitive skin types.

How does hyaluronic acid work?

As mentioned above, hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar molecule. It’s also a humectant – which means that it draws in, absorbs and retains water. This helps support beautiful skin in a couple of ways. Internally, hyaluronic acid binds to collagen, providing it with moisture and helping collagen to retain the shape and structure of skin. Externally, hyaluronic acid protects skin from moisture loss. Stressors like dry weather conditions and UV radiation pull water content from skin, which can cause dehydration. Hyaluronic acid prevents this water loss and can actually draw moisture into skin from outside. Youthful complexions have a lot to thank HA for, as radiance, firmness, and even textured skin are all due in part to hydration.

What does hyaluronic acid do for skin?

Hyaluronic acid benefits for skin extends to virtually every skin type and concern. An incredibly gentle ingredient, Lancôme’s hyaluronic acid products are versatile and can be included in both morning and evening routines, and with any other skincare ingredient. Using hyaluronic acid for skin encourages the following benefits (at any age!):

Hydrates deeply:

The cornerstone of beautiful skin, hydration is necessary for all skin types. Skin will experience some form of moisture loss during the day and as we sleep, and hyaluronic acid is one of the most effective tools to replenishing it. Moisturised skin is firmer, more evenly textured and brighter than skin which lacks water content.

Anti-ageing support:

Thanks to its relationship with collagen and its skin-plumping ability, you can use hyaluronic acid for wrinkles and fine lines. In both your anti-ageing morning and evening routine, the placement of hyaluronic acid promotes even-textured skin. Because of its high efficacy in anti-ageing, the ingredient features across Lancôme’s #1 selling Génifique range.

Ideal for sensitive skin:

The word ‘acid’ might make those with skin sensitivity anxious about using the skincare ingredient, but hyaluronic acid is one of the best options for addressing concerns like redness and discomfort in skin. Because of its gentle nature and high affinity to dermal layers, using hyaluronic acid for sensitive skin can bring long term and visible results.

How to apply hyaluronic acid in a skincare routine

With so many potential benefits, knowing how to apply hyaluronic acid alongside your other skincare products is essential to an optimised routine. See how to implement it into your morning and evening routine for best results.

1. HA + vitamin C

Vitamin C is a brightening antioxidant, which can benefit skin (especially against stressors experienced at a high rate in Australia). The ingredient protects skin cells against UV radiation, and works to even tone and brighten complexions. As with all other potent ingredients, using vitamin C alongside a supportive and gentle ingredient like hyaluronic acid ensures skin maintains optimal hydration. Our #1 anti-ageing serum, Advanced Génifique, contains both ingredients alongside bifidus prebiotic. Used morning or night, skin’s texture is improved and the skin barrier is strengthened.

2. HA + retinol

Retinol is a highly efficacious ingredient – able to speed up the skin cell renewal cycle and reveal fresher, younger skin. Due to its potency, retinol should be paired alongside hydrating products. By using hyaluronic acid with retinol, skin comfort is promoted and deep skin layers are provided with essential moisture. We recommend using retinol as part of your evening routine. After application, hyaluronic acid-infused cream Advanced Génifique Night Cream provides a thick layer of hydration, to seal in skincare and protect skin overnight.

3. HA + niacinamide

Otherwise known as vitamin B3, niacinamide provides potent anti-ageing benefits to skin. Similar to vitamin C, the nutrient protects against UV radiation, addresses hyperpigmentation and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For illuminating and firming results, triple-dose serum Rénergie H.C.F Triple Serum contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid alongside ferulic acid and vitamin CG. Used twice daily, skin is strengthened while concerns are addressed and improved. By using these two ingredients together, your skincare routine can help to improve loss of volume, minimise discoloration and dark spots and visibly address wrinkles, whilst keeping skin hydrated.

Loved this guide? Keep reading to discover the best anti-ageing skincare routine for your skin.