Focus on: Hyaluronic Acid
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had some version of this conversation:
Client: I’m looking for a new face serum/moisturizer/treatment.
Me: Great! Let me show you [Amazing Product]. It’s got x, y, z, and hyaluronic acid to keep you soft and hydrated!
Client: Ooh, no, I don’t want any acids, that will hurt my skin!
Me: Let’s chat about what hyaluronic acid actually is…
Ok, let’s.
Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced in your body. It’s not an abrasive, but in fact a lubricant. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000x its weight in water, and functions as a moisture binder, bringing water in.
But why do I want it in my skincare?
Because it’s like giving your skin a glass of water. I know some of you are great at staying hydrated, but if we’re being honest, how many of you reading this can tell me the last time you actually drank the recommended amount of water for your body weight? I’m one of those irritating people who always has a water bottle on her person, and even I don’t drink enough every day.
So you’re saying it won’t hurt my face?
I’m saying it won’t hurt your face. Actually, a lot of calming creams or serums contain hyaluronic acid. In these situations, think of it almost like running your finger under a stream of water when you get a really minor burn–cooling and calming. Serums with hyaluronic acid will give your skin a supple, hydrated finish without weighing it down with oil, which makes these products pretty much perfect for summertime, when even rinsing your face at the sink seems to make it sweaty and greasy feeling.
Where do I start?
Start with a light moisturizer or a serum. Just about every popular moisturizer on our shelves has some element of hyaluronic acid (often listed as sodium hyaluronate, for those of you looking), so you can go lots of places with it. If you’re nervous, my favorite places to start are any of the three moisturizers from Rilastil’s Aqua line, Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Moisture Cushion, and the ever-popular Skinceuticals Hydrating B5 Gel.
