Hyaluronic Acid (HA) has become a staple in cosmetic and skin care products. This water-soluble agent is known for its ability to restore moisture, and is treasured by those looking to retain the supple appearance and texture in their skin, as well as restoring volume and rejuvenating their look.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
“Hyaluronic Acid is a humectant naturally found in everybody’s skin,” says Dr. Miriam Hanson, board certified dermatologist and cosmetic expert at Sanova Dermatology in Austin, Texas. Humectant refers to the agent’s ability to bind water and moisture. In the body HA binds water, giving the skin its turgor or plumpness. It also assists in the transfer of nutrients, as well as offering defense against free radicals.
“Free radicals are by products from the body’s metabolism and external insults like ultraviolet rays of the sun. They damage the cellular integrity of the skin and contribute to an aged appearance,” explains Dr. Hanson. HA combats this oxidative stress on the skin, keeping the skin strong, safegaurding against sun damage.
How Can Hyaluronic Acid Be Used?
HA is quite versatile. It can be used topically as well as an injectable agent. HA can often be found in medical-grade moisturizing and skin care products. Skinceuticals B5 Hydrating Gel and Neocutis Hyalis both utilize this product to naturally assist in restoring moisture to the skin. Not only does it help restore suppleness to the skin, but it also known to assist in healing the skin. “We often recommend Hyaluronic Acid products for patients post-procedure. The humectant properties are optimal for repairing the skin and allowing it to recover,” says Dr. Hanson. These products are also suitable for all skin types, not always an easy find and a testament to its quality and effectiveness.
Along with its topical uses, HA is the primary component of many dermal fillers. HA largely replaced collagen and a number of other products that caused allergic reactions and other adverse effects on the skin. By simply adding more of a substance that is already in all of our skin, we don’t run into problems.
“Many patients come in to discuss volume loss in the cheeks, around their mouth and face. They begin to notice deepening lines in their nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and tear troughs” Dr. Hanson explains. Products like Juvederm and Restylane are able to be strategically placed under the skin to fill these creases and restoring volume to these areas.
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