Hyaluronic acid is one of the most well-known ingredients in the skincare world. You can find it in serums, creams, masks, and products designed for dry or dehydrated skin. It is generally suitable for a wide range of skin types and can be incorporated into a morning or evening routine.
Despite its name, hyaluronic acid does not function like exfoliating acids. Its main role in skincare products is to help attract water and maintain a feeling of hydration in the outer layers of the skin.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the body, including in the skin and connective tissues. In cosmetic products, various forms of it are used to help maintain moisture in the outer layer of the skin.
Over time, and due to factors such as dryness, sun exposure, air conditioning, and weather changes, the skin can lose water and appear less fresh. A product containing hyaluronic acid can provide a light layer of moisture and improve the feeling of comfort.
What are the benefits of hyaluronic acid for the skin?
Hydration Support
Helps attract water and maintain a feeling of hydration in the outer layer of the skin.
Fresh Skin Appearance
Hydrated skin can appear smoother, more supple, and brighter.
Light Texture
Many hyaluronic acid products come in a lightweight gel or serum texture.
Simple Integration into Routine
Generally, it can be combined with other common active ingredients.
What skin types is hyaluronic acid suitable for?
Hyaluronic acid is considered a versatile ingredient. Product suitability primarily depends on the full formula and its texture.
| Skin type or condition | How can it be incorporated? | Recommended texture |
|---|---|---|
| Dry skin | As a hydrating layer before a richer cream | Hydrating serum and cream with squalane or ceramides |
| Oily skin | Light hydration without a heavy texture | Water-based serum or light gel |
| Combination skin | Even hydration with adjustment of cream quantity to facial areas | Light serum and medium-textured cream |
| Sensitive skin | As part of a short and gentle routine | Formula without a heavy load of active ingredients |
| Dehydrated skin | To improve the feeling of tightness and discomfort | Hydrating serum and cream to seal the routine |
| Mature skin | To support a supple and fresh appearance | Combination with peptides, squalane, and a moisturizer |
What is the significance of molecular weight in hyaluronic acid?
In skincare products, hyaluronic acid can be found in different molecular sizes. Each size behaves differently in the formula and on the skin.
- High molecular weight: Acts primarily on the skin's surface and helps reduce water loss.
- Medium molecular weight: Contributes to a feeling of hydration and comfort in the outer layer.
- Low molecular weight: Includes smaller molecules, but their penetration depends on the formula.
The term "multi-molecular hyaluronic acid" generally describes a combination of several forms or molecular sizes in the same product.
How to use hyaluronic acid correctly?
Gently cleanse the skin
Start with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. There is no need for aggressive cleansing that leaves a feeling of tightness.
Apply to slightly damp skin
In many cases, it is recommended to apply the product when the skin is clean and still slightly damp. There is no need for the face to be wet.
Use a small amount
A few drops or a thin layer are usually enough for the face and neck. A large amount can leave a sticky feeling.
Finish with a moisturizer
Face cream helps retain the water added to the routine and reduce evaporation from the skin.
In the morning, use sunscreen
Sunscreen is the last step in your morning routine and helps protect the skin from sun exposure.
Skincare routine order with hyaluronic acid
Cleansing
Removal of dirt, oil, and product residue.
Serum
Hyaluronic acid or another active serum.
Eye Cream
Specific hydration for the eye area, as needed.
Face Cream
Maintaining hydration and completing the routine.
In the morning, finish with sunscreen. In the evening, you can choose a richer night cream depending on your skin type and the season.
Read the comprehensive guide to Korean cosmetics in Israel and building a skincare routine.
Which ingredients can hyaluronic acid be combined with?
| Ingredient | Can it be combined? | How to combine? |
|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide | Generally yes | Niacinamide serum followed by a moisturizer containing hydrating ingredients |
| Peptides | Generally yes | Especially suitable for a hydrating and anti-aging routine for mature skin |
| Ceramides | Yes | Good combination to support the skin barrier |
| Squalane | Yes | Helps soften and reduce water loss |
| Retinoids | Possible | Hyaluronic acid can be incorporated into a hydrating routine alongside a retinoid |
| Exfoliating acids | Possible | Can be used after an active acid to add moisture |
Hyaluronic acid is just one part of a proper hydrating routine. To understand what other ingredients help maintain skin moisture and how to build a complete skincare routine, read the Complete Guide to Facial Skin Hydration.
Read how niacinamide integrates into a skincare routine with moisturizing ingredients.
Which HL/Skin products are suitable for a moisturizing routine?
Firming Texture Cream
A facial cream for the daily routine that combines moisturizing and care ingredients for mature skin. Can be applied after serum and before sunscreen.
View product
Renewing Night Cream
A cream for the evening routine that helps complete the moisturizing steps after cleansing, serum, and eye cream.
View productCommon Mistakes in Using Hyaluronic Acid
Applying without moisturizer
A hydrating serum does not always replace a cream. After the serum, it is generally recommended to use a cream suitable for your skin type.
Using too much
A thick layer can feel sticky or cause products applied over it to pill. Start with a small amount.
Expecting permanent results
The feeling of hydration depends on consistent use, the complete formula, and other steps in the routine.
Ignoring the climate
In the Israeli summer, you might prefer a lighter texture. In winter or an air-conditioned room, you can complete the routine with a richer cream.
Combining several new products at once
Add new products gradually, especially if your skin is sensitive or if you are also using retinoids and exfoliating acids.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hyaluronic Acid
Click on the question to reveal the answer
Is hyaluronic acid an exfoliating acid?
No. Despite the name, it does not function like AHA or BHA and is not intended for skin exfoliation. Its main role in skincare products is hydration support.
Can hyaluronic acid be used daily?
In most cases, yes. It can be used in the morning, evening, or both routines, depending on the product's instructions and its suitability for your skin.
Do you apply it to dry or damp skin?
It can be applied to clean, slightly damp skin. Afterwards, it is recommended to complete the routine with a moisturizer.
Which comes first - niacinamide or hyaluronic acid?
When dealing with two separate serums, you can generally apply them by texture - from lightest to thickest. There is no single order that suits every formula.
Is hyaluronic acid suitable for oily skin?
Yes. Oily skin also needs hydration. It is recommended to choose a light serum or gel that does not leave a heavy feeling.
Is it suitable for sensitive skin?
Often yes, but it is important to check the full formula. Fragrance, alcohol, or other active ingredients may affect suitability.
Can it be used under makeup?
Yes. Use a small amount, wait for absorption, and then continue with moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup.
When do you see results?
The feeling of hydration may improve quickly, but results depend on the product, skin condition, and consistent use.
Want to build a complete moisturizing routine?
Explore HL/Skin products and choose the right skincare steps for your skin type and your morning or evening routine.