Almost everyone is looking for that magic skincare ingredient that will hydrate, treat common skin conditions, and slow down the effects of aging. There have been plenty of ‘miracle ingredients’ that have been touted in the media over the years, all working to various degrees. One of the newest that has been proven to have real results is hyaluronic acid, also known as HA. Never heard of HA? Here’s what you need to know about this powerful substance and how it can help you fight the aging process.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
A carbohydrate molecule, hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body with 50% of it found in the skin. The purpose of HA is to hydrate and lubricate joints as well as connective and skin tissue. It works like a magnet to attract hydration and helps your cells retain as much moisture as possible. In fact, just one gram of this acid can hold up to six liters of water! When you have enough HA, your skin appears hydrated and healthy. However, as the body ages, it naturally loses HA, which can lead to a loss of volume, brightness, and suppleness in the skin.
Is Hyaluronic Acid Safe?
Because it is naturally occurring in the body, hyaluronic acid is very safe to incorporate into your skincare regimen. Though it is referred to as an ‘acid’, this does not mean it will burn or damage the skin in any way. In fact, it’s milder than other acids that are routinely used in facial treatments such as chemical peels. HA is approved by the FDA and when applied topically or injected into the skin, it is treated as a natural substance by the body.
What Skincare Conditions Can Hyaluronic Acid Treat?
Hyaluronic Acid is one of those superstars that works wonders for any skin types. Its amazing hydrating properties can decrease the look of fine lines and wrinkles as well as stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which results in tighter, more youthful looking skin. It can also treat oily or acne-prone skin, and acts as an antioxidant to fight free radicals and other damaging agents and slow down the appearance of age-related damage such as uneven skin tone, sun spots, and loss of firmness. HA also has soothing properties that can reduce symptoms of rosacea and eczema and aids in the body’s natural healing process, helping the skin recover from damage like sunburn and other traumas.
How You Can Incorporate It into Your Skincare Regimen
There are a number of ways you can benefit from the many positive properties of HA. Buying high-quality skincare products from a dermatologist or plastic surgeon will ensure you get the highest level of HA in a product that is easily absorbed and utilized by your skin. Though some less expensive products may say they have HA, they may not have them in high enough doses to make much of an impact on your skin.
You can also harness the power of Hyaluronic Acid by getting HA-based dermal fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane. These substances can be injected into your skin by a professional plastic surgeon or dermatologist to smooth out lines and wrinkles and restore volume to skin that is showing signs of aging. As a dermal filler, HA not only plumps the skin, but it continues to attract more moisture, which hydrates and renews the skin.
Where Can I Get Hyaluronic Acid?
It’s important to talk to a knowledgeable plastic surgeon such as Dr. Sayed before incorporating HA into your skincare regimen. Though using less expensive HA skincare products will not harm you, you will not see the results that come from the professional recommendation and use of HA in high-quality products or in injectables such as Juvederm and Restylane. Dr. Sayed is a double board certified plastic surgeon who has been practicing cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for over 13 years. He has extensive knowledge about how to use HA-based products and procedures to create the best results for your unique skincare needs. He has convenient offices in southern California and is known throughout the country as an expert in his field.
If you’re ready to harness the power of HA and experience its hydrating and anti-aging properties, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sayed today.
