Since hyaluronic acid burst onto the skincare scene as a top trend in 2016, it's cemented itself as a bathroom staple across the world. With Google results reaching over 45 million, the hyaluronic acid market is worth over $9.6 billion and growing. Known for its deeply hydrating properties (it can hold 1000 x its weight in water), as a humectant it can retain moisture like no other, making it perfect to include in moisturisers, serums and haircare. As we all grappling with the perils of dehydrated, winter skin, hyaluronic acid has been hailed as a saving grace for hydration to give us that dewy glow we all long for.
Although there are different forms of hyaluronic acid, (sometimes you'll see it listed as sodium hyaluronate, which is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid), experts believe that just 1% concentrated hyaluronic acid is beneficial for the skin. Ironically, any percentage higher than this can actually be drying for the skin so stick to the 'less is more' approach when it comes to formulas.
Found naturally in the skin as a lubricant for our joints, nerves, hair, skin and eyes, hyaluronic acid naturally decreases as we age which is why so many of us suffer from dry, dehydrated skin as we get older, which makes fine lines look more pronounced. However, by applying hyaluronic acid within your skincare, it draws moisture from your external environment and holds it there, to leave skin hydrated and plump.
Usually in a serum or cream form, hyaluronic acid can be applied morning and evening every day for best results. As a serum it has a gel-like consistency and soaks into the skin immediately, forming a great base for your moisturiser and/or face oil. It will feel cool and soothing as your skin drinks it up like a tall glass of water.
Just when you think it can't get any better, we'll leave you with one more parting gift – hyaluronic acid can be used on all skin types. Yep, it's a tonic for dry and sensitive skin, but can also have a balancing effect for oily complexions by stopping your skin from producing excess oil and is light enough that it's not comodegenic (pore blocking) so blemish-prone skin is also safe. A must for winter to add some much-needed moisture into our skin, it's also soothing during warmer climes when drier air and climbing temperatures can leave our skin frazzled.
If you're not sure where to start, Willowberry's Nutrient Boost Day Cream contains hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid naturally-derived from corn that is Ecocert and COSMOS approved, to leave your visage hydrated, soothed and comforted all day long. No wonder it's reached cult status!
Article by Jessica Harris
Willowberry is 'Nutritious Natural' skincare for grown-ups for your best skin. Loved by top make-up artists and facialists, Willowberry's luxurious award-winning products protect skin’s natural barrier function, to nourish and transform grown-up skin. As seen in Vogue, Independent, The Telegraph, This Morning and more.