Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found throughout the body’s connective tissue and is a popular ingredient in skincare and make-up. It is found in both the epidermis and the dermis and is responsible for keeping the skin plump and hydrated.

Useful Facts About Hyaluronic Acid

• The first signs of HA depletion are often felt in the superficial layer of the skin, which becomes drier as we age causing fine lines and wrinkles
• HA is also an essential component of the dermal extracellular matrix, providing skin structure and volume
• As we age the natural HA levels in the epidermis and dermis slowly decrease. This can be attributed to:
  • Intrinsic ageing: the natural ageing process which
  • Extrinsic ageing: environmental factors like UV exposure pollution

Treatment tips for Hyaluronic Acid

Prescription

• Hyaluronic acid can be injected into the skin as a dermal filler

(Check with your medical professional)

Non-Prescription

• HA helps to reduce or slow the rate of trans-epidermal water loss and keeps the skin hydrated
• HA helps to make skin less sensitive and prone to irritation
• Using an HA serum or cream when introducing Retinol if your skin is dehydrated or more on the sensitive side helps to lessen the risk of irritation
• Hyaluronic acid is a versatile ingredient that all ages and skin types can use
• Before applying an HA product make your face slightly damp as the benefits of HA are advanced because it has water to bind to
• Dehydrated hyaluronic acid spheres can be used in make-up as skin-smoothing primers

Skincare products containing Hyaluronic Acid

HA cleansers are formulated to be gentle and mild on the skin. Dr Webster recommends:

• Huxley Cleansing Gel
• Exuviance Gentle Cleansing Crème

HA-targeted treatments can deliver intense hydration to the skin, helping to restore and maintain its moisture balance. Dr Webster recommends:

• MartiDerm SHOTS Hyaluronic Firm
• La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum 50ml

HA moisturisers can improve the skin’s elasticity by promoting hydration and supporting collagen and elastin fibres. Dr Webster recommends:

• NeoStrata® Skin Active Hyaluronic Luminous Lift
• Huxley Anti-Gravity Cream

Combining HA with SPF in a single product ensures that your skin receives both sun protection and hydration simultaneously. Dr Webster recommends:

• ISDIN Fusion Water SPF 50
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Age Correct SPF 50