The best skin-care lesson 2019 taught me and my overstuffed medicine cabinet? Less is most definitely more.
After trying virtually every sample that crossed my desk for close to a year, my skin was more irritable and bumpy than ever; a not-so-common occurrence for my skin that led me to pare my routine *way* back. What I found worked the best for my combination-meets-oily complexion: a simple cocktail of a light hyaluronic acid serum, and depending on the time of day, either a vitamin C serum or glycolic peel.
Why Hyaluronic Acid?
We actually carry Hyaluronic Acid naturally in our bodies. It acts as a lubricant and cushion in our joints, can be used to treat burns and skin ulcers topically and increases skin elasticity and reduces wrinkles. As a hydrator, Hyaluronic Acid increases the moisture content of you skin, which helps it to stretch and bounce back flexibly. That reduces the tension in your skin, which impacts the look of wrinkles and fine lines.
Topical Hyaluronic Acid has been used in skincare for years for its ability to tackle multiple signs of aging at once. It is non-irritating and generally useful for multiple skin types, including dry and oily facial skin. Gentle enough to be used every day, this ingredient is perfect for easily irritated skin, as well. Hyaluronic Acid is also a humecant, meaning it draws water to itself, keeping your skin hydrated by preventing transepidermal water loss. It also has a molecular weight and size small enough to penetrate into our skin and deliver nutrients deep down.
Used in moisturizers, serums and even wound-healing ointments, Hyaluronic Acid works within minutes to plump skin. That doesn’t mean, though, that you’ll see huge results right away. It can take a few months to seriously improve your skin’s condition, meaning you won’t see major results for a few weeks. That said, plumping skin does help reduce the look of fine lines, so your skin will show some beneficial results immediately.
Hyaluronic Acid and Me
After going through bottles of serum, I knew I couldn’t be the only one whose skin reacted the best to a waterlight Hyaluronic Acid. Like any other curious shopper, I found myself on Amazon looking for the best-reviewed bottle. After a couple of minutes of scouring every listing that promised a dewy glow, I found Cosmedica Skincare’s Pure Hyaluronic Serum ($15) which not only boasts more than 10,000 almost perfect reviews, but also the most affordable price tag out there.
Not only does the fix-everything serum seriously plump fine lines and under-eyes, but it smooths a rough complexion and clears up stubborn blemishes. While I’ve yet to try this do-it-all serum for myself, these stellar reviews and hyaluronic acid before and after photos have convinced me to add a couple to my cart when I’m in need next.
Hyaluronic Acid Eases Fine Lines
“My skin was dry and loose and I am only 39. Most moisturizers break me out, but I decided to try this based on the reviews and I’m glad I did. It moisturizes well, plumps up my skin, and evens out my skin tone.” -Amazon customer
This Before and After Shows the Power of Hyaluronic Acid in a Skincare Routine
“[It] made such a difference in my skin! My forehead is no longer covered in those gross bump, my skin is smooth, wrinkles are less pronounced, and my skin looks glowy and feels hydrated.” -Amazon user
Hyaluronic Acid is Perfect for Dry and Oily Skin Types
“Okay so I NEVER review things, but this serum has done such great things for my skin!! Within 2 weeks using this and a dermaroller my skin transformed. It helped quench my dry skin, therefore helping my skin stop over-producing oil, and therefore helping not Only with hydration but also clearing my acne up! It’s been amazing so far!” -Amazon user
