Hyaluronic acid has become one of the most talked-about ingredients in the world of skincare. And rightly so – it’s not just a passing trend, but one of the most thoroughly researched and effective ‘moisturisers’. At Pure me, we believe in transparency, which is why we’ve put together a list of the 10 most important facts about hyaluronic acid. It’s time for you to find out everything there is to know about it.
1. Why is hyaluronic acid such a powerful ‘moisturiser’?
Hyaluronic acid is a true “water magnet”. Its molecules have an incredible ability to bind and retain water in quantities over 1,000 times their own weight. This makes it one of the most powerful humectants – or moisturising ingredients – in existence. Thanks to this property, it is sometimes called a “molecular sponge”, as it literally “absorbs” water from its surroundings. It is a component that occurs naturally in the human body. It does not cause irritation and is suitable for all skin types.
2. Does hyaluronic acid occur naturally in the skin?
Yes. Hyaluronic acid is a so-called glycosaminoglycan (GAG), a natural substance found in our skin. It is a key component of the dermis, although it also plays an important role in the epidermis and even in the skin barrier. It supports hydration, tissue regeneration and wound healing. It is thanks to hyaluronic acid that the skin is firm, soft and supple – in short, it looks young and healthy.
3. Why does the skin lose its elasticity as we age?
Unfortunately, as we age, our skin loses its ability to produce hyaluronic acid effectively. This is one of the main reasons why it becomes drier, and fine lines, wrinkles and sagging appear on its surface. This process can also be accelerated by exposure to sunlight, which damages the cells that produce hyaluronic acid.
Did you know? The amount of hyaluronic acid in the skin starts to decline from the age of 25. By the age of 50, its production may have fallen by as much as half.
4. Does hyaluronic acid in creams really work?
Definitely yes. Hyaluronic acid is one of the most thoroughly researched and proven ingredients in cosmetics. It works through a multi-level mechanism:
- It forms a non-occlusive film on the skin’s surface, which prevents excessive water loss.
- It locks moisture into the skin, protecting it from drying out.
- It protects the skin from the harmful effects of external factors.
- It stimulates the skin’s natural regenerative processes.
5. What is the difference between hyaluronic acid in different cosmetics?
Not all hyaluronic acid molecules are the same. Their properties depend on their molecular weight. In cosmetics, two main types are most commonly used:
- Low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid: The molecules are small, allowing them to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, where they work from within to improve its biomechanical properties and plump up the skin with moisture.
- High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid: The molecules are larger and remain on the skin’s surface, forming a moisturising and protective film.
In Pure me products, we combine different types of hyaluronic acid to provide multi-layered hydration that meets the needs of every layer of the skin.
6. Does hyaluronic acid stimulate collagen production?
Yes. Research shows that low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, which penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin, stimulates the synthesis of type 1 collagen and, as a result, helps to improve skin firmness, which is key in combating the signs of ageing.
7. Does hyaluronic acid reduce wrinkles?
Absolutely. Clinical trials using creams containing low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid have shown a significant reduction in wrinkle depth. This is because this type of hyaluronic acid is able to penetrate the skin and improve its structure from within. But even high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid will reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This is due to the restoration of intense hydration in the skin, which effectively ‘plumps’ the skin and visually reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
8. Does hyaluronic acid smooth the skin?
This has been scientifically proven. The results of clinical trials show that hyaluronic acid not only provides excellent hydration, but also reduces skin roughness. One study demonstrated that the participants’ skin roughness decreased by 66% compared to the group that used a placebo.
9. Does hyaluronic acid protect the skin from irritation?
Yes. High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid forms a non-occlusive protective film on the skin, which prevents water loss and shields it from external factors. It acts as an invisible barrier that protects the skin from irritation.
10. Is hyaluronic acid natural?
Yes. The hyaluronic acid used in modern cosmetology is entirely natural and vegan. It is produced using biotechnological methods through a process of bacterial fermentation, often involving lactic acid bacteria and substrates such as wheat and glucose. This makes it safe, effective and compatible with the skin’s natural biology.
