Hyaluronic acid is one the most popular skincare ingredients. In this post we will review what hyaluronic acid is, the benefits of hyaluronic acid, when to use it and how often as well as the importance of considering clean hyaluronic formulations when searching for the right serum for your skin. 

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid dates all the way back to 1934 when it was first discovered, it has since been found in the cells of many mammals, algae, and a wide variety of bacteria.1 Half of all hyaluronic acid found in the human body resides in your skin and it has an incredibly short half-life of less than a day.2  It is used for several key actions like cell signaling, wound preparation, tissue regeneration, and more. Therefore hyaluronic acid plays a pivotal role in the health of your skin. 1

Unfortunately, it is degraded through many factors like everyday exposure to free radicals. Applying hyaluronic acid topically in all any form, from low to high molecular weight, has shown diverse benefits for the skin.3

Benefits of Hyaluronic acid

• Skin hydration 

• Skin elasticity

• UV radiation skin protection

• Wound healing 

• Tissue regeneration  

• Some forms can even have an anti-inflammatory effect

Hyaluronic Acid and Anti-Aging

Scientists have several theories on why we begin to lose hyaluronic as we age.4 The most popular theory, The Free Radical Theory of Aging posits that we age because we accumulate oxidative damage like UV damage, stress, toxin accumulation, etc.4 New research has been done to include additional factors but the process of aging is still largely misunderstood.4 

So here is what we do know: loss of elasticity, weakening of the skin, skin damage, and loss of moisture are all common skin complaints that contribute to a lackluster appearance as we age.5

So where does hyaluronic acid come into the equation? Well, hyaluronic acid has a unique ability to retain water so it is responsible for hydration, elasticity, and also plays a role in the transfer of nutrients.2 

In essence, many people turn to hyaluronic acid to help skin look smoother and more hydrated as their skin matures!

Not All Hyaluronic Acid is Good Quality

Hyaluronic acid, like many skincare ingredients, often suffers degradation during the extraction, purification, storage, and sterilization processes.6 It can be sourced from animal tissue for biological compatibility and efficacy as well as from other organisms for vegan-friendly options.6 It is important to look for high quality skincare products that are formulated with both your skin and the environment in mind. 

Read more below on our various top-selling hyaluronic serums or check out our curation standards.

When to Use A Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Hyaluronic is best applied right after your cleanser/toner where you would apply your serum, with some exceptions. 

If you are using multiple serums, apply the “lightest weight” first. If you apply heavy creams before hyaluronic it will create a barrier between the product and your skin leading to limited benefits.

For normal application, apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin- this could be either recently cleansed or toned. 

How Often Should You Use Hyaluronic Acid?

Unlike other skincare activities (ex. retinol or vitamin C) that focus on cell turnover, hyaluronic is still considered an “active” but it works by delivering hydration. So hyaluronic acid is typically very safe and can be used everyday, making it a great option for all skin types. 

Using Hyaluronic Acid with Vitamin C

Both hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are skincare powerhouses in their own right but they can also work synergistically together! Though vitamin C is amazing for dark spots and brightening, it can dry out or irritate skin, especially sensitive types. Hyaluronic acid’s hydration factor can add harmony and balance to rituals with vitamin C. 

Be mindful that some hyaluronic acid products can include citrus oils which can cause additional photosensitization to a regimen with vitamin C, which is already photosensitizing. Always be sure to wear clean, non-toxic sunscreen daily to prevent additional damage. 

Using Hyaluronic with Retinol

Various forms of retinol can be found in over the counter and prescription skincare products. However, most retinol forms have shown at least some ability to irritate the skin.7 This irritation is often referred to as “retinoid dermatitis” and several formulations and skincare ideologies, such as skin cycling, have attempted to address this so you can get all the benefits of retinol while minimizing irritation.7

Different laying techniques can help you get the benefit of both ingredients. For sensitive skin, try adding a layer of hyaluronic before retinol-based products. 

For tougher skin in need of results-driven routines, try layering a hyaluronic serum 30 minutes after you apply your retinol allowing time for the retinol to absorb. 

Skin cycling is the concept of alternating different actives at different times or on different days. Skin cycling is another way to get the benefits of each product and minimize adverse effects. Skin cycling can be particularly effective when using retinols because they are photosensitizing and should only be applied in the evening. 

For more information on using hyaluronic acid in combination with other actives like vitamin c or retinol, fill out our skin analysis to see what products are right for your skincare goals. 

Best Hyaluronic Acid serums

Consistency is key in any routine. Here is a list of the best hyaluronic acid serums including our favorite ways to pair hyaluronic with other actives so you can choose products that fit perfectly into your routine. 

Best-Selling Hyaluronic Serum

Tata Harper Rejuvenating Serum

Over 40 ingredients and 2 forms of hyaluronic, Tata Harper anti-aging products excel at introducing botanical extracts into the skin in a high performance and effective way for a firmer, plumper appearance. Tata Harper also offers great transparency into their formulation of biocompatible hyaluronic acid from science-forward biotechnology using fermented residue from root vegetables and sugar. 

TATA HARPER

REJUVENATING SERUM

Best Hyaluronic + Vitamin C Combo

 Agent Nateur Holi(Water) and Holi(C) 

If you are considering integrating both these ingredients, Agent Nateur Holi (Water) and Holi (C) may offer you the benefits of both without worrying about additional sensitivities. Hol(C) uses Sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a stable and water soluble form of vitamin C provided in a powder for maximum potency. Holi (Water) can actually be added directly to Holi (C) to create a potent serum delivering the benefits of both brightening and hydration to the skin.

AGENT NATEUR

HOLI (C)

Agent Nateur also uses a higher quality, more bioavailable form of hyaluronic acid in their Holi (Water) Toner that is sourced from Switzerland.

AGENT NATEUR

HOLI (WATER)

Best Hyaluronic +Retinol Combo

Kypris Moonlight Catalyst and Kypris Antioxidant Dew

For those looking to get the exfoliating, anti-aging, and hydration benefits- Kypris Skincare provides an easy introduction to a plant-based active experience. 

The Moonlight Catalyst is designed to deliver the benefits of a retinoid preparation but is more effective and less irritating than traditional products. Fermented pumpkin enzyme, antioxidant rich Hawaiian Sea Algae work to exfoliate and deliver key nutrients while Xylitylglucosides help to support natural hyaluronic production. 

The hydration level can be further enhanced by using Kypris Antioxidant Dew as your morning serum. This serum has made our top-sellers list for several years and for good reason! This silky skin savoir delivers intense hydration and free-radical fighting ingredients. Including additional Xylitylglucosides, Phytoencapsulated vitamins, known free radical scavenger superoxide dismutase, and more. This serum supports your skin’s own hydration system including hyaluronic. 

Best Hyaluronic Acid Mask

Patyka Pro Hyaluronic Mask

If you have a routine you love and don’t want to make major changes- that’s okay. This mask can give you increased hydration benefits with as little as one use a week. 

The Patyka Pro-Hyaluronic Plumping Mask combines 3 Pure Natural hyaluronic acids with Calcium Ketogluconate and Polyglutamic Acid to intensely replenish, stimulate and protect the skin's hyaluronic acid reserves. Acmella Oleracea extract smooth expression lines and features for a more rested face on waking. You can also sleep in this mask 1-2 nights a week  for intensive anti-aging action. 

PATYKA

Pro-Hyaluronic Plumping Mask

Most Affordable Hyaluronic Acid Serums

Forest Water Hyaluronic Serum 

Hyaluronic Acid and forest actives like Tremella Mushroom & Beech Tree replenish thirsty skin with the kind of deep, lasting hydration it craves. Ursa Major Forest Water Hyaluronic Serum brings back the bounce to dehydrated skin! This serum is also a good light weight choice for men or youthful skin just looking for a little extra boost. 

URSA MAJOR

Forest Water Hyaluronic Serum

Fitglow Active B+C+E Hyaluronic Super Serum 

Next-generation plant-powered super serum is supercharged with Triple Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Niacinamide (B3), Glutathione, and Collagen boosters plus Licorice Arbutin Bright Complex. Fitglow Vita Active  B+C+E Hyaluronic Serum naturally improves the look of uneven tone, radiance, elasticity & firmness while promoting a healthy-looking complexion. If you love Fitglow products, this is an excellent addition to your AM routine before makeup.

FITGLOW

VITA ACTIVE B + C + E HYALURONIC SUPER SERUM

Other Frequently Asked Questions about Hyaluronic Acid

Is hyaluronic acid vegan?

There are discrepancies in the animal cruelty aspects of sourcing hyaluronic that remain a priority for us here at Citrine and should be top of mind for consumers. Due to our high sourcing vendor standards we offer a large selection of cruelty-free hyaluronic products. 

The following products are not vegan: Agent Nateur Holi(C)

What’s The Difference Between High and Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic?

Low molecular weight hyaluronic offers deeper penetration while high molecular weight hyaluronic offers surface protection. Both are important forms for addressing various skin concerns. For more targeted recommendations check out our free skincare analysis.

Can you use hyaluronic if you have oily skin?

Hyaluronic is great for all skin types, in fact recent research has shown that hyaluronic may even provide support for skin types with increased sebum production.9

Read More Ingredient Breakdowns

Interested in learning more about ingredients? Check out these other posts from our experts:

• Nature’s Botox Alternative: The Snowflake Bulb Skin Secret

• Everything To Know About Exosomes In Skincare

• Ingredient Spotlight: Gluatathione

References:

1. Fallacara A, Baldini E, Manfredini S, Vertuani S. Hyaluronic Acid in the Third Millennium. Polymers (Basel). 2018;10(7):701. Published 2018 Jun 25. doi:10.3390/polym10070701
2. Žádníková P, Šínová R, Pavlík V, et al. The Degradation of Hyaluronan in the Skin. Biomolecules. 2022;12(2):251. Published 2022 Feb 3. doi:10.3390/biom12020251
3. Bravo B, Correia P, Gonçalves Junior JE, Sant'Anna B, Kerob D. Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence. Dermatol Ther. 2022;35(12):e15903. doi:10.1111/dth.15903
4. Gladyshev VN. The free radical theory of aging is dead. Long live the damage theory!. Antioxid Redox Signal. 2014;20(4):727-731. doi:10.1089/ars.2013.5228
5. Papakonstantinou E, Roth M, Karakiulakis G. Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermatoendocrinol. 2012;4(3):253-258. doi:10.4161/derm.21923
6. Graciela CQ, José Juan EC, Gieraldin CL, Xóchitl Alejandra PM, Gabriel AÁ. Hyaluronic Acid-Extraction Methods, Sources and Applications. Polymers (Basel). 2023;15(16):3473. Published 2023 Aug 19. doi:10.3390/polym15163473
7. Milosheska D, Roškar R. Use of Retinoids in Topical Antiaging Treatments: A Focused Review of Clinical Evidence for Conventional and Nanoformulations. Adv Ther. 2022;39(12):5351-5375. doi:10.1007/s12325-022-02319-7