#HyaluronicAcid
Hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring molecule that holds 1,000x its weight in water, became skincare’s most celebrated hydrator in the mid-2010s. The ingredient’s ability to plump and hydrate made it a staple in serums, sheet masks, and moisturizers.
The Science
Hyaluronic acid works by:
- Drawing moisture from the atmosphere into skin
- Plumping fine lines (temporary water retention)
- Improving skin texture (smoothing surface)
- Suitable for all skin types (lightweight, non-comedogenic)
Note: HA is a humectant, meaning it needs moisture to work. In dry climates, it can pull water from deeper skin layers if not sealed with a moisturizer.
Molecular Weight Matters
Effective HA serums use multiple molecular weights:
- Low molecular weight (penetrates deeper layers)
- High molecular weight (forms protective surface film)
- Sodium hyaluronate (smaller molecule, better absorption)
The Ordinary’s Impact
The Ordinary’s “Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5” ($7, launched 2016) made HA accessible. Previously, luxury serums (Skinceuticals HA Intensifier, $102) dominated the market.
Popular Products
- The Ordinary HA 2% + B5 ($7, budget king)
- CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($18, drugstore option)
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel ($19, gel-cream hybrid)
- Vichy Minéral 89 ($30, thermal water base)
Cultural Phenomenon
By 2018, “hyaluronic acid” became a household term, appearing in:
- Sheet masks (Korean beauty staple)
- Lip plumpers (temporary fullness)
- Eye creams (reducing under-eye hollowness)
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