If there’s one skincare ingredient that puts you on the fast track to glowing, hydrated skin, it’s hyaluronic acid (HA). You’ll find it everywhere — in serums, moisturisers, cleansers, mists, and more — and for good reason. Hyaluronic acid is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to locking in moisture, plumping fine lines, and supporting healthy skin function.

Here’s everything you need to know...

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a type of polysaccharide (a sugar molecule) that’s naturally found in the body — especially in connective tissues, joints, and the skin. Its job? To cushion, lubricate, and retain moisture.

But as we age, our body’s natural supply of hyaluronic acid starts to decline. Environmental stressors like UV exposure, pollution, and smoking speed up that depletion too.

That’s the bad news.
The good news? You can replenish it topically using skincare products that include hyaluronic acid — and they really work.

What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do for Skin?

The number one benefit? Hydration.
Hyaluronic acid can hold over 1,000 times its weight in water — which means it draws moisture deep into your skin and keeps it there.

Key Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid:

Deep hydration for all skin types
Helps plump fine lines and wrinkles
Strengthens the skin barrier
Boosts radiance and glow
Helps soothe sensitive or reactive skin
Improves texture in dry or flaky areas

Dehydrated skin is more than just dry — it can lead to a weakened skin barrier, making skin more vulnerable to:

Irritation
Redness
Inflammation
Conditions like eczema, rosacea, and acne

Hydrated skin, on the other hand, appears:

✨ Plumper
✨ Healthier
✨ More youthful
✨ More resilient

Types of Hyaluronic Acid

Not all HA is the same — here’s a quick breakdown of the three main forms used in skincare:

🔹 Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid

What it does: Broken down into smaller molecules to lightly hydrate the skin’s surface.
Best for: Oily or combination skin that doesn’t need intense moisture.

🔹 Sodium Hyaluronate

What it does: Penetrates deeper into the skin for better hydration.
Best for: Normal or sensitive skin types needing balanced moisture.

🔹 Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate

What it does: Offers longer-lasting hydration with all the benefits of sodium hyaluronate.
Best for: Dry skin, cold weather, or living in dry climates.