Why Hyaluronic Acid Is Still A Gold Standard In Skin Care

It’s probably harder to find skin care without hyaluronic acid at this point than it is to find formulas with it. That’s because the ingredient is still considered a gold standard — and for good reason. The naturally-occurring (in skin, joints, eyes) molecule attracts roughly 1,000 times its weight in water. On your face, that translates to a softer, more hydrated appearance.

Over time, however, the body produces less and less hyaluronic acid, with a decrease of about 1% per year after the age of 30. If you live in a cold or arid climate, which encourages water loss, that can exacerbate this downward trend. And ingredients like vitmain C and retinol may also come with dehydrating side effects. All of that is to say topical hyaluronic acid is a solution that benefits just about everyone with a low risk for irritation. It can be applied morning or evening, twice a day if needed. Immediately, it creates a plumping effect, and over time, you’ll likely notice an increase in skin suppleness and firmness.

But hyaluronic acid isn’t a one-note wonder. Based on how its formulated, it can target a variety of skin types and function with both incredible efficacy and variety. In partnership with SkinCeuticals, a leader in science-backed, medical-grade skin care, here are four ways to incorporate the superstar ingredient into your routine.