Is hyaluronic acid good for acne? Benefits explained
Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been touted as a superhero skincare product for a number of years. Beloved by beauty editors around the world, hyaluronic acid is a staple in many of our skincare routines, with it commonly being found in serums, moisturisers, and sheet masks.
But doubts over its efficacy have repeatedly sprung up. Such as, is hyaluronic acid good for acne? And are its plumping, dew-inducing properties too good to be true?
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What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that naturally occurs in the skin. Its purpose is to bind to water to hydrate the skin, and it's this process that gives you that plumped up, dewy effect.
It's effectively a moisture magnet, which also helps to regulate hydration within the cells, making it one particularly savvy molecule. Just one gram of hyaluronic acid is able to hold up to six litres of water - yep, you read that right.
Now, this is where incorporating hyaluronic acid into your regimen becomes important. As we age, we lose collagen and hyaluronic acid naturally, so the skin becomes dehydrated more easily. This means we need to supplement our supply of both molecules to keep dullness at bay.
Is hyaluronic acid good for acne?
Hydration is not hyaluronic acid's only benefit – many also use the ingredient to treat common skin conditions, including acne.
While hyaluronic acid doesn't directly clear up acne, it's frequently seen in many treatment systems. This is because of its ability to draw moisture into the skin, which treats dryness. As a result, it can improve the appearance of acne - making it a vital ingredient to include in your skincare regimen if you suffer from breakouts.
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What are the side effects of hyaluronic acid?
All in all, hylauronic acid is considered very safe to use. However, we always recommend doing a patch test when using a new skincare ingredient.
Studies have shown that hylauronic acid is well tolerated when used as a topical skincare ingredient, and as an oral supplement.
However, if you're considering getting hyaluronic fillers, there are a few small risks that you should keep in mind. After recieving injections, some people will encounter pain, bruising, itching, and swelling. It's also possible to experience a rash around the injection site. These symptoms should, however, clear up within a week.
And akin to other dermal fillers, it's possible for hyaluronic acid to give the skin an uneven, and bumpy appearance.
It's worth noting that these side effects are most likely to occur as a result of the injection process, and not because of hyaluronic acid itself. As it's a substance that the body produces naturally, it's very rare to experience an allergic reaction to it.
Why could hyaluronic acid dry out skin?
Like with most skincare ingredients, there's ways to ensure you get the most out of hyaluronic acid.
If you’re applying hyaluronic acid to a dry face, it can actually end up drawing moisture from the deeper levels of your skin, which in turn will cause more harm than good, and leave you feeling tight and uncomfortable.
This normally occurs when humidity levels are very low - that is - there's a lack of moisture in the air. To counter this, apply the product to damp - and not completely dry - skin for the best results.
What are the best hyaluronic acid products?
The Four Nine team has tried and tested a number of hyaluronic acid serums, and these are our top picks.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (30 ml), £5.90
For those looking for an affordable way to incorporate the molecule into their skincare regimens, you can't go wrong with The Ordinary. The cult Canadian brand made a name for itself by focusing on the science behind skincare, and stripping back everything else.
Their oil-free, lightweight serum penetrates deep into the skin's layers to deliver long-lasting moisture, which promises to smooth and plump the skin. It's also enhanced with vitamin B5 to increase efficacy.
SkinCeuticals H.A Intensifier (30 ml), £90.00
If you're willing to splash some cash, SkinCeuticals' offering also boasts some premium ingredients. The addition of proxylane, liquorice root, and purple rice helps to smoothe, and refine the complexion. Oh, and expect to see your crow's feet and fine lines diminish in appearance too.
Drunk Elephant is your best bet if you're a proponent of "clean beauty". Their potent hyaluronic acid serum is free from essential oils, drying alcohols, silicones, chemical screens, and fragrance and dyes. It's also vegan and gluten-free.
Expect it to deliver 24-hour hydration. And with it clocking in at 50 ml, you get more bang for your buck to boot.