Derm’s Guide to Hyaluronic Acid, The Hydration Superhero

Hyaluronic acid is having a big moment. Loved by dermatologists, this super hydrator is generally safe for most skin types and is featured in many skincare products. Naturally occurring, topically applied hyaluronic acid hydrates skin, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and leads to the coveted youthful glow. But what is it, who should use it, and how to apply it correctly? We checked in with our dermatologist founder, Dr. Murphy-Rose. 

What Is Hyaluronic Acid? 

Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule with humectant properties—it attracts and binds to water. It can hold one thousand times its weight in water, which is why it is used topically in skincare for hydration—to bring water to the skin’s surface. Like a sponge, hyaluronic acid pulls water from its surroundings and has an immediate plumping effect on the skin. 

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in our bodies that is found in our eyes, skin, and other tissues. As we age, the production of hyaluronic acid slows down, contributing to the loss of hydration and plumpness most people experience over time. 

How Hyaluronic Acid Works 

Hyaluronic acid comes in different molecular weights or sizes. In skincare, hyaluronic acid's molecular weight plays a significant role in its effectiveness and function. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid has smaller molecules, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin, hydrate from within, and stimulate collagen production. This makes it ideal for addressing fine lines, wrinkles, and improving overall skin texture. 

On the other hand, high molecular weight hyaluronic acid has larger molecules, which can not penetrate into the skin. They form a protective barrier on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and providing a plumping effect. This form of hyaluronic acid is good at maintaining hydration and protecting the skin from environmental stressors. 

When choosing skincare products containing hyaluronic acid, choose a product containing molecules in a variety of sizes for maximum hydration. For example, in addition to being the first moisturizer on the market packed with 10 of the most potent antioxidants, Skincare Junkie® Megadose Antioxidant Facial Moisturizer features 7 molecular weight forms of hyaluronic acid to draw water to multiple depths in the skin. Our (link to pore therapy daily toner pads) also contain multi molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to hydrate while exfoliating and clearing pores. 

Is Hyaluronic Acid Good for Acne-Prone Skin? 

Topical hyaluronic acid is gentle and well-tolerated, making it suitable for even the most delicate of skin. It is an ideal choice for hydrating oily or acne-prone skin because it delivers water to the skin’s surface without clogging pores

Hyaluronic acid maintains skin hydration and promotes a healthy skin barrier. Well-hydrated, healthy skin is less likely to experience irritation and inflammation. In some cases, other ingredients in a skincare product or incorrect use of hyaluronic acid could cause skin issues. In such cases, discontinue its use and consult with a dermatologist. 

How to Apply Hyaluronic Acid 

How to apply hyaluronic acid correctly? Board-certified dermatologist and Skincare Junkie® founder, Dr. Murphy-Rose, shares the following tips: 

1. Apply a product containing hyaluronic acid to clean skin (ideally in the first 2-5 minutes after a shower). If applied in a dry environment, hyaluronic acid will pull water from your body. 
2. Always apply hyaluronic acid first. It works most effectively when applied directly to skin. 
3. After applying the product containing hyaluronic acid, you need to lock in the moisture with a moisturizer or facial oil. If you use another superhydrator squalane, hyaluronic acid should go first and squalane on top. Or you can use a product that contains both (such as our Megadose Antioxidant Facial Moisturizer). 

Keep It Simple 

Dr. Murphy-Rose created the first moisturizer on the market that combines 10 of the most potent, clinically proven topical antioxidants plus hyaluronic acid and squalane in a proprietary non-comedogenic, safe formula that feels silky smooth and luxurious and won’t break you out. 

Powered by a clinically tested blend of Coenzyme Q10, resveratrol, vitamin C, and green tea, Skincare Junkie® Megadose Antioxidant Facial Moisturizer is a deeply hydrating, non-comedogenic formulation that combines a moisturizer and a powerful serum. Several molecular-weight forms of hyaluronic acid draw water to the skin surface while ceramides and squalane lock in that moisture for lasting hydration and skin barrier protection. And did we mention that Elle called our moisturizer the best antioxidant moisturizer? 

Did you know an exfoliating product could contain hyaluronic acid? Skincare Junkie® Pore Therapy Daily Toner Pads do just that! A proprietary multi-acid formula soaked into biodegradable pads gets rid of congestion to keep skin clear without irritating, while our blend of hyaluronic acids in seven molecular weights attracts moisture at multiple skin depths to deeply hydrate. These next-generation toner pads minimize the appearance of pores while preventing breakouts.