Hyaluronic Acid for Dewy Summer Skin
/So let me preface by saying I really did not know what hyaluronic acid was until pretty recently. And the name definitely fooled me. I have been using acid peels on my face, such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid. These are harsh chemicals. I use these as exfoliators, and my skin is very sensitive afterward. I wanted to put my vitamin C serum on after I did these peels, but then I saw another listed ingredient, was hyaluronic acid. I thought to myself, I probably shouldn’t put another acid on my face right now. I should probably just add lots and lots of hydration back to my skin after my harsh chemical peel. Little did I know hyaluronic acid is just that!
Hyaluronic acid (also called hyaluronate) is a clear lubricating polysaccharide that is naturally present in our bodies. It’s found in highest concentrations in the skin, joints, and eye sockets. It helps our bodies retain collagen and flexibility along with moisture and elasticity. It’s not drying at all. It does not strip skin. It actually does just the opposite! It attracts and binds water. It keeps the skin plump, hydrated, and it gives a nice, dewy glow! Fun fact: babies are born with very high levels of hyaluronic acid. That’s why their skin is so soft and plump. It decreases in level as we age. As a result of this decrease, we develop wrinkles and sagging skin! Hence the reason it’s often found in anti-aging creams and serums.
It’s even injected in the skin to plump it and to reduce wrinkles. Yes, I’m talking about fillers! Lips, cheeks, under-eye bags, you name it. Examples include Juvederm and Restylane.
Now it’s not just for anti-aging purposes. It’s often injected in joints to help osteoarthritis. In this case, it’s used for its lubricating properties. It’s used in “dry eye” drops to provide lubrication. Some people use it to help speed the healing of burns or cuts on skin. I actually apply it in serum form after I thread or pluck my eyebrows so that those annoying little cuts heal quickly!
Every day I apply a serum that has hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and vitamin E to my face. I do this so that my skin stays hydrated, smooth and firm. And of course, I make my mom use it twice daily. Here are some products that I really like!
CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM