Hyaluronic acid is a natural humectant composed of disaccharide chains (sugar) found in every tissue of the human body. It is present in high concentrations within the skin and the fluids around the eyes and joints. As the body's natural hydrator, this hydrophilic (water-loving) molecule acts like a sponge to attract and retain 1,000 times its own weight in water, making it an excellent moisturizer when applied topically.

While hyaluronic acid is present throughout the body, 50% is concentrated within skin tissue, notably in the surface layers, where it attracts water, as well as the dermal layers, where it acts like a scaffold for essential proteins such as collagen and elastin. This molecule however has a short lifecycle in skin, with 30-50% degrading every 24 hours. With age, the skin experiences a gradual decline in hyaluronic acid levels. Production starts to decrease in the 20s and accelerates in the 40s. The combined decline and rapid natural degradation of hyaluronic acid contribute to signs of aging including dryness, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, loss of firmness, and loss of facial fullness.

Hyaluronic acid, while a powerful hydrator for skin, is a very large molecule that even when delivered topically in fragmented form, is still too large to penetrate skin for a significant transformation of volume. When injected, these fillers both fill space and absorb water to temporarily restore facial volume and smooth out wrinkles. Popular areas of the face for hyaluronic acid injections, also known as dermal fillers, include nasolabial folds (parentheses around the mouth), marionette lines (lines from the corners of the mouth down to the chin), the jawline, lips, cheeks, or under the eyes. While the results of hyaluronic acid injections are immediate and can last between 3 to 12 months, hyaluronic acid is naturally absorbed by the body. As a result, repeat injections are required to maintain results. To find a certified professional for hyaluronic acid injections, visit the SkinCeuticals skincare professional locator.

One of the hallmarks of aging skin is loss of moisture, resulting in decreased firmness, plumpness, and elasticity. Hyaluronic acid is a fundamental molecule involved in maintaining skin's moisture content due to its unique capability to attract and retain water. Thus, topical application of hyaluronic acid can deliver long-lasting hydration while helping skin look and feel smoother, firmer, and appear plumper.

Hyaluronic acid is an ideal ingredient for all skin types because of its oil-free, hydrating properties. It is naturally found in skin and hydrates without sensitization or an oily feel. While all SkinCeuticals hyaluronic acid serums deliver long-lasting hydration, they are available in a variety of formulations that can also address specific skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, discoloration, sensitivity, dehydration, and imperfections. Look for a hyaluronic acid formula that addresses your specific skin concern.

As hyaluronic acid is already a natural component of the
skin, this type of injection or dermal filler is typically well-tolerated, resulting in little to no side effects. Additionally,
if the effects of the filler are undesirable, they can easily be reversed through a professional injection of an enzyme called
hyaluronidase, which helps dissolve hyaluronic acid. This is not the case for other types of fillers such as poly-L-lactic acid
and calcium hydroxylapatite injections. Visit a professional to learn more, to find a professional near you visit the SkinCeuticals skincare professional locator.