Hyaluronic acid, or HA for short, is one of the most commonly used skin-care ingredients out there. Known for its ability to attract and retain water, it works by pulling moisture from the environment into the top layer of your skin (which softens lines and gives you a smoother texture overall).
So, what’s the catch? It can backfire when used incorrectly. Say you apply a hyaluronic acid serum to dry skin. If you’re dehydrated and the air around you is arid (aka winter), HA will pull moisture out from the closest source (i.e., the deeper layers of your skin) instead of pulling it in from your surroundings. Translation: You’ll be even more parched than you were to start.
What’s the right way to use it then? Always (always!) apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin and seal it in immediately with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration. And just like that, you’re glowing.
A few of our favorites: L’Oréal Paris ($30); Leegeehaam ($33); Skinceuticals ($98)
