Hyaluronic acid: to the less beauty savvy, it may sound like something you don't want to put anywhere near your face (we all took chemistry lessons at school, just sayin...).

But, what if we told you that hyaluronic acid actually holds the key to smooth, flawless and hydrated skin?

In fact, our own skin cells actually produce hyaluronic acid naturally in a bid to maintain moisture levels. But, thanks to pesky ageing and environmental aggressors, to name just a few things flung at our faces on a daily basis, those levels tend to take a bit of a dip.

Cue sensitivity, dullness, fine lines and uneven tone and texture. Need we go on?

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LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT

'HA (hyaluronic acid) is critical in maintaining skin hydration,' says Aesthetic Doctor, Dr. Maryam Zamani, 'although it can be degraded by free radical mechanisms caused by things like UV exposure. Topically applied, it helps to hydrate the skin and maintain this hydration as a humectant.'

ELLE Glossary: Humectant (hyoo/meck/tant): a substance used to reduce the loss of moisture.

Sounds pretty great, right? Well, here's everything you need to know about the hero skincare ingredient that is hyaluronic acid and exactly why you should be slotting it into your regular beautifying routine. That is, if you haven't already.

hyaluronic acid
Filippo Fortis

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

'Hyaluronic Acid (which you might find hiding on the labels of some of your skincare products as HA), is naturally occurring in the human body,' says Dimitra Davidson of Indeed Labratories. The substance works as a magnet for moisture, helping your cells retain as much of it as possible so that your skin feels and appears hydrated, plump and healthy.

Now for the science-y bit. Just a single gram of hyaluronic acid has the impressive ability to hold up to six (yep, six) litres of water. Add to that, a super smart ability to regulate that moisture within the cells, so as not to drown them and you've got one genius ingredient.

hyaluronic acid
Filippo Fortis

As ELLE Beaty Director Katy Young puts it: 'Hyaluronic isn’t the stripping stuff we associate with "acids", but a bouncy fluid that occurs naturally in our body to lubricate joints, as well as holding onto moisture in our skin matrix.

'Like all naturally occurring, skin-boosting wonders, it starts to decline as we age, which is why your supply of the man-made stuff should not.'

What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do To Your Skin?

If your skin isn't already lapping up the benefits of hyaluronic acid, this is why it should be:

1. If skin is sufficiently hydrated, it feels super-soft, plump and pillowy and looks so much more radiant. See ya, Insta-filter.

2. When skin is hydrated, lines and wrinkles (even the deeper ones) appear diminished, so it is a great ingredient for those with ageing skin who are desperate to cling on to their youthful perkiness.

3. It works wonders on everyone. 'Hyaluronic acid works for any skin type, says Dimitra Davidson 'even sensitive or breakout-prone skin, as well as those with an oily complexion.'

4. Recent research suggests that hyaluronic acid also has antioxidant properties, which means it can act like a shield against free radicals we aren't in control of, like pollution and other aggressors.

coconut oil benefits
Matteo Valle

Is Hyaluronic Acid Safe? Can You Use Hyaluronic Acid Everyday?

Yes!

Don't be put off by the name, because, unlike some acids, hyaluronic acid doesn't strip the skin or cause any downtime when applied topically.

'It is different than other acids which are used to exfoliate,' mentions Dr. Zamani. A natural and powerful moisture-binding substance, it delivers gentle hydration to where your skin needs it the most.

'Everyone would do well to use a hyaluronic acid serum (trust me, you sensitive skin types),' explains Young. 'Particularly any face going through a dehydrated patch (not to be confused with dry skin: a type, rather than a condition, caused by a lack of lipids in the skin barrier, not lack of water). Even oilier people like me can get on board, as it leaves skin succulent sans grease. I double dose on the stuff frequently.'

These Hyaluronic Acid Serums Are Your Shortcut To Plumper Skin
Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum
Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum
£24 at Beauty Pie

If you see this hyaluronic acid serum on the Beauty Pie site, snap it up immediately. (And if you aren't a Pie member yet, you're going to want to change that.) It's so popular, people bulk-buy it for its plumping abilities and very reasonable price.

Maya Hyaluronic 72-Hour Hydration Serum
Antipodes Maya Hyaluronic 72-Hour Hydration Serum

This new launch from New Zealand's beloved Antipodes is truly a cut above. A shot of superfoods for depleted skin, it's packed with hyaluronic acid, marine algae, antioxidant kakadu plum and bisabolol, which calms redness and irritation – even that associated with rosacea. Non-sticky, super-soothing and able to deliver hydration that truly lasts, this is one absolutely everyone should try.

Hydr8 B5™ Intense
Medik8 Hydr8 B5™ Intense

This more intensive version of Medik8's classic Hydr8 B5 feels slightly heavier than the original (think: silky serum rather than watery tonic) and packs a serious punch in the hydrating stakes. A cocktail of Natural Moisturising Factors (glycerin, sodium PCA and amino acids) floods the skin surface with moisture, while a berry-derived antioxidant lends pollution-protecting prowess. A brilliant one-and-done serum for the AM.

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Reformulating your hero product? Risky, for some. But for The Ordinary – whose original hyaluronic acid serum is largely responsible for the HA boom – this bold move will surely pay dividends.

This month, the brand's Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum has received a revamp: the formula now contains smaller molecules of HA, which means better penetration and less of that tacky feeling after application. There are ceramides in there now too, so you're getting even more barrier-boosting benefits for your buck. The best bit? It still costs less than a tenner.

On Sale
Hyaluronic Acid Serum Revitalift Filler
L'Oreal Paris Hyaluronic Acid Serum Revitalift Filler
Now 61% Off

Simple yet wonderfully effective, L'Oreal Paris' star hyaluronic acid serum won't guarantee you get asked for ID at the door, but it will plump and smooth as well as its pricier competitors. It contains three weights of HA, and works especially well under liquid foundation, putting a swift stop to those dry, cakey patches.

The Dewy Serum
Tatcha The Dewy Serum

This one likely needs little introduction. Adored by just about everyone that tries it, Tatcha's star serum features is more than a simple HA serum: with Japanese algae, antioxidant tea and a petite portion of exfoliating acids, all steeped in a base of ferments, it's a one-and-done skin tonic for all complexions.

Algae Plump Serum
Haeckels Algae Plump Serum

Haeckels' bestselling skincare product, the fan-favourite Algae Serum is truly deserving of its popularity. Essentially, it's everything the Margate-based brand does best: a stellar skin-feeding formula (you're getting sustainably sourced seaweed polysaccharides and niacinamide alongside your HA) all wrapped up in a recyclable bottle, produced using renewable energy.

Queen Serum
Omorovicza Queen Serum

Omorovicza's skincare philosophy is based around the healing properties of the mineral-rich thermal waters that run through the brand's Budapest hometown. There's indeed historic heft behind this principle – balneotherapy, or the acr of bathing to treat ailments – has long been part of Hungarian culture.

The brand's latest launch is a hyaluronic acid serum with a difference. It's formulated with a base of that prized mineral rich water, and boosted with ferments to protect your skin barrier. Regular use will lead to plumper and calmer skin.

On Sale
Everhydrate Marine Moisture-Restore Serum
REN Clean Skincare Everhydrate Marine Moisture-Restore Serum

REN Clean Skincare is sending out some stellar new launches at the moment. Part of the Everhydrate line, this jelly-textured serum is ideal for calming and quenching easily irritated skin.

Hyaluronic acid is just one hero hydrator in this soothing serum: algae and rosella grab onto moisture in the uppermost layers of skin, preventing crepey lines from coming to the fore.

On Sale
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Now 30% Off

Dr. Mahto regularly recommends this superstar product to her clients, which simply combines hyaluronic acid with barrier-building ceramides. It's fragrance-free and sinks in straight away without clogging pores: what you lose in luxury appeal, you make up for in effectivity.

Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum
Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum

It looks like a tall drink of water for your skin, and that's exactly what Vichy's hyaluronic acid booster is. Formulated with just 11 ingredients (read the back of your current serum and you'll see that's pretty minimal), including Vichy's signature mineral-rich spring water, this lightweight gel absorbs super quickly to hydrate skin in an instant.

Microbiotic Hydrating HA Serum
Dr. Barbara Sturm Microbiotic Hydrating HA Serum

You're likely already familiar with Dr. Sturm's original Hyaluronic Serum, but this lesser known gem from her teenage-focused collection shouldn't be slept on – especially if you're prone to breakouts.

Thoughtfully formulated (and much more affordable), it combines hyaluronic acid with pre- and probiotics, which work to rebalance the bacteria on your microbiome, thus preventing acne from arising.

Super Bounce
Glossier Super Bounce

With vitamin B5, this one's a soothing powerhouse for sensitive skin. Use it day and night, preferably under the brand's equally excellent Priming Moisturiser.

The Hydrating Serum
Skin Design London The Hydrating Serum

Founded by A-list facialist Fatma Shaheen, Skin Design London bridges the gap between high-street products and prescription topicals, offering transformative formulas blended with forensic precision.

A great introduction to the line, the Hydrating Serum is a stellar hyaluronic acid blend, with firming peptides and a Swiss plant extract that fortifies the barrier and reduces the effects of oxidative stress.

Hyaluronic Self-Tan Drops
Votary Hyaluronic Self-Tan Drops

Votary's clever multi-benefit serum combines the hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid with the the gentle glow of DHA. The more moisture skin has, the better a gradual tan will develop, making this a very wise product to invest in.

On Sale
The Most Hyaluronic Super Nutrient Hydration Serum
PSA The Most Hyaluronic Super Nutrient Hydration Serum
Now 26% Off

PSA is the little sister of cult-favourite skincare line Allies of Skin, and it's a great choice for anyone who wants advanced skincare without the triple-figure price tags.

This hydrating serum contains a few impressive ingredients: sodium PCA reduced trans-epidermal water loss while protecting the skin barrier, allantoin calms inflammation, and kombucha works to gradually brighten.

On Sale
Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Dehydrated Skin
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Dehydrated Skin

La Roche-Posay's hyaluronic acid serum ticks all the boxes sensitive souls require. It's not just a solid choice for the easily irritated though: all skin types can benefit from this moisture-drenching formula.

How Do I Know If My Skin Needs More Hyaluronic Acid?

You can use hyaluronic acid if you're worried about ageing:

As we age, the amount of hyaluronic acid our skin cells produce begins to lessen and cell turnover can become sluggish - this is is when lines, wrinkles and rough texture tend to make their debut.

So, if you want to maintain your youthful glow, incorporating hyaluronic acid into your anti-ageing skincare routine is definitely a good idea.

'Skin moisture can drop significantly as we age, says Indeed Laboratories' Dia, something which Dr. Zamani seconds. 'This makes the skin lose elasticity and expose the signs of ageing on the skin. But hyaluronic acid acts as the ultimate drink for your skin,' Dia says.

You can use hyaluronic acid if your skin is dehydrated:

Different to dry skin, dehydrated skin can be peppered with lines and wrinkles and has the tendency to look dull. It also often feels rough, tight and sensitive which is where hyaluronic acid comes in.

'It is exceptional as it has the ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water,' mentions Dr. Zamani, so it keeps moisture on lock-down, quenching parched patches instantly and cumulatively throughout the day.

hyaluronic acid
Filippo Fortis

When Should I Use Hyaluronic Acid In My Skincare Routine?

Unlike other potent serums or active ingredients that need to be applied specifically in the morning or at night, hyaluronic acid is the flexible hydrator that's happy to go on at any time.

'Completely benign, hyaluronic acid won’t interfere with other potent skincare,' Young assures us. 'So it can join in with the pick ’n’ mix layering system you’ve got going on day or night. I love to apply it first, directly onto fresh, damp skin so it can really show off its water-carrying capabilities. And if your skin is dry, put your moisturiser on top to lock it all in.'

Which Hyaluronic Acid Product Should I Use?

Between serums and sprays, mists and moisturisers, there's a million different hyaluronic acid skincare products out there. But which one to choose?

'For me it’s in a serum that it really comes into its own,' says Young. 'As the most revered of the big five skincare ingredients(the others being SPF, antioxidants, and vitamins C and A – aka retinol), most of the beauty big guns are spending a lot of money getting their hyaluronic acid just right for our thirsty little faces.

hyaluronic acid
Filippo Fortis

'This humble molecule is now available in dozens of different weights, with ‘lighter’ products able to sink more quickly into our skin to plump it up and out again. A blend of big and mini molecules to hydrate both the top layer of skin instantly and lower epidermis over time is best. Knowing the difference can be tricky, but those brands with a healthy mix should tell you so on their website.

ELLE Edit: Best Hyaluronic Acid Skincare Products
Hyalu B5 Aquagel SPF30
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Aquagel SPF30
Credit: .

Find us another SPF that cools, hydrates, protects as well as La Roche-Posay's and we'll eat our hat. The refreshing light blue gel formula is packed with hyaluronic acid to moisturise skin whilst shielding from sun damage. The best bit? You won't find any chalky white colour payoff here.

Hydrating B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
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SkinCeutical's oil-free hyaluronic acid serum is no nonsense when it comes to hydrating your skin. Ideal for acne-prone skin (which also needs hydrating just FYI), this is the HA serum for all skin types. Apply on its own to clean skin or add a few drops to your moisturiser to boost hydration.

Liftactiv H.A Epidermic Filler Smoothing 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Vichy Liftactiv H.A Epidermic Filler Smoothing 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum
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If needles aren't your thing, then Vichy's 'filler' hyaluronic acid serum is the one for you. Formulated to plump skin from within, this ultra-hydrating treatment will leave your face feeling super juicy.

Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum
Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum
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The key ingredient for plumping your skin, Glow Recipe's pleasingly pink hyaluronic acid serum is named for good reason. Boasting no less than five different weights of HA to penetrate your skin at multiple levels, this ultra lightweight serum will leave your face feeling firmer and bouncier.

Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream
Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream
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Dedicated to vegan skincare that actually works, Youth To The People's hyaluronic acid moisturiser combines superfoods kale and spinach with hyaluronic acid to make a refreshing whipped gel cream that sinks into skin in seconds. The best bit? The packaging is totally recyclable so you can be as nice to the planet as you are to your skin.

Hyaluronic Acid Serum
CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum
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This fragrance-free hyaluronic and vitamin B5 packed serum not only replenishes skins hydration levels but keeps it locked in thanks to the presence of 3 different ceramides.

Hyaluronic Eye Cream - £17.25
Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Eye Cream - £17.25
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Those in search of a big hyaluronic hit will fall in love with Mario Badescu's eye cream which has a huge cult following.

Hydraskin Cooling Hydrating Gel Mask
Darphin Hydraskin Cooling Hydrating Gel Mask
Now 16% Off
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Any skincare that promises to soothe and calm our skin whilst delivering a refreshing hit of hydration is alright by us. Paint this jelly mask onto clean skin and let the hyaluronic acid work its magic.

Water Drench Micro-Bubbling Cloud Mask
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Micro-Bubbling Cloud Mask
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This delightful sounding bubbling mask is like an actual cloud of hydration for your skin. Apply onto clean skin, enjoy the fluffy bubbles, then rinse off after 15 minutes to reveal newly moisturised skin.

Hyaluronic Serum
Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum
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Veering into the more expensive end of the scale, this hyaluronic acid serum from skincare expert Dr. Barbara Sturm is more than worth the investment. Packed full of long and short chain hyaluronic acid molecules, a few drops of this on clean skin everyday and you can wave that parched complexion goodbye.

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 - £6.50
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 - £6.50
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Beauty obsessives rarely leave The Ordinary without stockpiling the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. Instead of drawing water out of the skin for temporary surface hydration, it boasts three forms of hyaluronic acid in varying molecular weights which reach the cells at deeper levels. The pocket-friendly price-tag is the icing on the cake.

Hyaluronic Concentrate
Hand Chemistry Hyaluronic Concentrate
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This clear liquid may look pretty humble but the targeted formula boasts a powerhouse of ingredients, including moisture magnet hyaluronic acid, to restore hydration to even the most parched of skin cells. Ditch the thick body lotion - this takes mere seconds to absorb so you can get dressed straight away.

'As with most good serums, the secret to success is shopping around for the smell, texture and result that keeps you happy – because that’s the one you’ll stick with, and good skincare starts with consistency.'