Everything about topical hyaluronic acid – What is it, what does it do and how do you use it?

Hyaluronic acid is a standout ingredient in the world of skin care because of the many benefits it can provide. The world of skin care is constantly evolving, with new ingredients emerging and entering the market. However, this particular ingredient has caught the attention of skincare enthusiasts and is often appreciated for its moisturizing properties and anti-aging benefits. What makes it so special? Let’s delve deeper into this trend in this blog:

What is hyaluronic acid?

It is a fascinating gel-like substance that is naturally present in our bodies. It belongs to the family of glycosaminoglycans, which are crucial in the human body. They play an essential role in building and maintaining the structural integrity of various tissues, such as cartilage, connective tissue and bones.

One of the remarkable properties of hyaluronic acid is that it is abundant in the extracellular matrix of our body. This matrix is, as it were, the ‘skeleton’ of our tissues and provides the necessary strength and structure. It acts as a kind of ‘filler’ between cells and contributes to the elasticity and suppleness of the skin and other tissues.

This substance is also known for its remarkable ability to retain water – up to hundreds of times its own weight! This makes hyaluronic acid a powerful humectant for the skin, as it is able to attract and retain moisture. This contributes to the natural hydration and maintenance of a healthy, youthful appearance of the skin.

How is cosmetic hyaluronic acid made?

It can be obtained in several ways. It can be extracted from animal sources, such as cockscombs, or it can be produced through biotechnological processes, which use bacteria to produce it. In skin care products, it is usually of biotechnological origin and has a low molecular weight, meaning it can be easily absorbed into the skin.

Effects of hyaluronic acid on the skin

Hyaluronic acid has several effects on the skin, making it a popular ingredient in skin care products. Here are some of the most important effects:

1. Intense hydration: Hyaluronic acid has the unique ability to retain moisture, providing intense hydration in the epidermis. This helps reduce dryness and improve skin elasticity.
2. Plumping fine lines and wrinkles: Hyaluronic acid can plump fine lines and soften deeper wrinkles, leaving skin looking smoother and younger.
3. Improving skin texture: Due to its moisturizing properties, hyaluronic acid can improve skin texture and give the skin a healthy, firm appearance.
4. Strengthening the skin barrier: Hyaluronic acid can help strengthen the skin barrier, making the skin better protected against harmful external influences.

Why is hyaluronic acid trending in skin care?

There are several reasons why hyaluronic acid has become so popular in the skin care world:

1. Wide range of applications: Hyaluronic acid is suitable for almost all skin types, making it accessible to a wide audience. It can be found in a variety of skin care products, from serums and creams to facial masks and injectables.

2. Proven effectiveness: Scientific research supports the moisturizing and anti-aging benefits of hyaluronic acid. People often experience noticeable improvements in the texture and appearance of their skin after regular use.

3. Minimal Side Effects: Unlike some other skin care ingredients, hyaluronic acid generally causes few side effects and is well tolerated by most people.

How do you use topical hyaluronic acid?

Topical hyaluronic acid is available in different forms, such as serums, creams and masks. It can be used as part of your daily skin care routine. Apply it to cleansed skin and follow it up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. It can be used in the morning or evening, depending on your personal preference and needs. Combining serums with hyaluronic acid and other creams, also known as ‘layering’, offers a powerful synergy.

Did you know that Iconic Elements Serums contain hyaluronic acid?

We have learned that a synergy of both high and low hyaluronic acid sugars allows for even more effective absorption into the skin. That is why the Iconic Elements serums contain a combination of both high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid.

Targeted Pigment serum

Our Targeted Pigment Serum is specially designed to effectively tackle pigment formation, and it does this at every stage of the process. This serum works in a threefold way:

In the first phase, it inhibits pigment production, which affects the formation of pigment cells.

In addition, the serum reduces the transfer of pigment from pigment cells to skin cells, which is the second phase of pigment formation.

Finally, the serum provides mild exfoliation of the epidermis, which influences the third phase of pigment formation. This renews the skin and helps to reduce existing pigment spots.

Firming booster serum

Our Firming Booster Serum revolves around the powerful ingredient Bakuchiol. Bakuchiol is considered an effective alternative to vitamin A, without the common irritation that vitamin A use can cause. This ingredient comes from the seeds and leaves of the Babchi plant and has its roots in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine.

Another notable ingredient in our serum is White Tea Extract. This extract, taken from the Camellia Sinensis shrub, contains rich antioxidants. Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals and contributing to the prevention of premature skin aging.

Last but not least, let’s not forget the special Cyclopeptide-5. This unique peptide not only promotes hydration, but also stimulates the supporting tissue in the dermis, resulting in the desired firmness of the skin.

In other words

Hyaluronic acid is a versatile ingredient that intensely hydrates the skin, plumps fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin texture and strengthens the skin barrier. It can be used as part of your daily skin care routine to keep the skin healthy and youthful. Always consult a dermatologist or skin specialist for tailored advice and to determine which products are most suitable for your skin type and needs.

While you are here

Discover Bakuchiol: A gentler alternative to vitamin A acid against wrinkles. Read on to find out why we at Iconic-Elements recommend this natural ingredient for skin aging and why we choose it over vitamin A acid. You don’t want to miss this!