Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is celebrated in skincare for its incredible hydrating properties, leaving skin looking plump and youthful. But what if you're not seeing those transformative results? The secret often lies in the type of HA you're using and how you're applying it.
1. Penetration Power: The Molecular Weight Matters
Not all HA is created equal, and its effectiveness depends on something called "molecular weight." High Molecular Weight HA (HMW-HA) contains larger molecules that stay on the skin’s surface, creating a moisture barrier that can leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. But sometimes, it doesn’t penetrate deeply enough to address your skin’s deeper hydration needs or boost collagen production.
Low Molecular Weight HA (LMW-HA), on the other hand, is made up of smaller molecules that can dive deeper into the skin's layers. This allows for hydration from within, improving elasticity and reducing fine lines. If you're not experiencing the changes you desire, it may be because you're using HMW-HA, which offers surface hydration but may not provide the deeper, long-lasting moisture your skin craves.
2. Moisture Retention vs. Lasting Hydration
HMW-HA does a fantastic job at drawing moisture to the skin’s surface, but it might not always give you lasting hydration. If your skin tends to be dry or mature, it likely needs moisture that penetrates deeper. HMW-HA can give an initial plumping effect but may struggle to maintain hydration throughout the day.
That’s where LMW-HA shines. By reaching deeper into the skin layers, it provides long-lasting hydration, resulting in visible improvements in texture and appearance over time. If you’re looking for more than just a quick glow, choosing LMW-HA can help support ongoing hydration and overall skin health, leaving you radiant from the inside out.
3. Skin Barrier Function and Irritation
Your skin’s barrier plays a big role in how your skin looks and feels. While HMW-HA is great for surface hydration, it can sometimes disrupt the skin barrier if not formulated properly, leading to irritation and dryness. This could even counteract its hydrating benefits, leaving your skin feeling more sensitive than before.
LMW-HA, with its ability to penetrate more deeply, helps strengthen the skin barrier and improve its resilience. This not only locks in moisture but also protects your skin from environmental stressors. If you have sensitive skin, LMW-HA is often the better choice, delivering the hydration you want without surface irritation.
4. The Importance of Correct Application
Even the best HA won’t work wonders without the right application. For HA to draw moisture into your skin effectively, it should always be applied to damp skin. HA attracts water from its surroundings, so applying it to damp skin helps it lock in that surface moisture, leaving your skin fully hydrated.
Before applying your HA serum, lightly mist or splash your face with water. This simple step can transform the way HA works for your skin, ensuring you get that plump, dewy glow you’re after.
The Bottom Line
If you're not seeing the benefits of HA that you’ve heard so much about, consider both the molecular weight of the HA and how you’re applying it.
Remember -
- HMW-HA provides quick surface hydration, but LMW-HA can give deeper, more lasting results.
- Always apply your HA serum to damp skin to maximize its hydrating power and achieve that natural, radiant glow.
And most importantly - Our Fresh Face Skin Hydration Booster does, in fact, contain these 2 types of Hyaluronic Acid, along with a range of vitamins and plant extracts, for all-round skin support and replenishment of hydration!
