Hyaluronic Acid: Essential Steps, Tips, And Precautions To Get Perfect Skin

Hyaluronic acid has become a highly acclaimed ingredient in skincare, celebrated for its numerous benefits. Many dermatologists recommend it due to its gentle nature, suitability for all skin types, and its role in helping the skin retain moisture. Known for its exceptional hydrating properties, hyaluronic acid can significantly improve skin hydration. However, improper use can lead to drier skin.

To ensure you use it correctly, we consulted two experts: Dr DM Mahajan, Senior Consultant in Dermatology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, and Dr Shikha Khare, Consultant in Dermatology at Yatharth Hospital, Noida Extension. They provided essential insights on the proper application, tips, and precautions for using hyaluronic acid effectively.

How To Use Hyaluronic Acid?

Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively use hyaluronic acid, as suggested by Dr Shikha Khare:

1) Cleansing: Begin with a clean face by using a mild cleanser appropriate for your skin type to eliminate makeup, dirt, and excess oil. Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.

2) Application of Hyaluronic Acid:

• Serum Form: If you’re using a hyaluronic acid serum, apply it to skin that is still slightly damp. Dispense a few drops onto your fingertips and gently press it into your skin using upward strokes.
• Moisturiser Form: For a hyaluronic acid-based moisturiser, apply a small amount to your face and neck, ensuring even coverage.

3) Layering: Proceed with your usual skincare routine after applying hyaluronic acid. If you use other serums or treatments, apply hyaluronic acid first to boost the absorption of subsequent products.

4) Moisturising: To lock in the hydration, follow up with a moisturiser. This step helps prevent moisture loss and maintains skin hydration throughout the day.

5) Sunscreen: During the day, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to safeguard your skin from UV damage.

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Tips For Maximum Effectiveness Of Hyaluronic Acid

Dr DM Mahajan offers the following tips for effectively using hyaluronic acid:

• Apply Twice Daily: For optimal results, use hyaluronic acid in both your morning and evening skincare routines.
• Proper Layering: Apply hyaluronic acid after any water-based products but before applying thicker creams or oils.
• Combine with Other Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid works well with most skincare components, such as vitamins C and B5, which can enhance its hydrating benefits.
• Select the Right Molecular Weight: Choose products that feature both high and low-molecular weight hyaluronic acid to ensure hydration at both the surface level and deeper layers of the skin.
• Avoid Overuse: More is not always better. Excessive use of hyaluronic acid can potentially draw moisture from deeper skin layers if the surrounding environment lacks sufficient humidity.

Precautions For Using Hyaluronic Acid

Dr DM Mahajan outlines some important precautions for using hyaluronic acid, which is as follows:

• Start Slowly: If you’re new to hyaluronic acid, begin with a lower concentration and gradually increase it to help your skin adjust.
• Patch Test: Always conduct a patch test before adding a new product to your skincare routine to check for any potential adverse reactions.
• Avoid Certain Combinations: Be cautious when using hyaluronic acid alongside acidic products, such as glycolic or salicylic acid, as this may lead to irritation.
• Consider Climate: In dry environments, apply an occlusive moisturiser over your hyaluronic acid to help prevent moisture loss.
• Check for Allergies: Although rare, some individuals may be allergic to hyaluronic acid. If you notice any redness, itching, or swelling, stop using the product and consult a dermatologist.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Hyaluronic acid is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new skincare products.