The problem with ‘HA’ is that it’s often either too large a molecule (it comes in different molecular weights) to pass through the skin’s surface or it is not being applied correctly. Tina Craig, founder of U Beauty, explains, ‘Because hyaluronic acid attracts water, it can actually draw the moisture from your skin unless you apply it to a damp face. We created a patented capsule loaded with dehydrated long-chain hyaluronic acid to penetrate beneath the surface, where the hydration is needed.’
Craig isn’t the only one to point out that hyaluronic acid is often misunderstood. Nicolas Travis, founder of Allies of Skin, says, ‘hyaluronic acid is a moisture magnet, so applying it to dry skin won’t give you the best results. Instead of a traditional serum, I recommend a hyaluronic mist to give the ingredient some moisture to draw from.’
Whether you choose a cream with a clever delivery system, try a mist, or continue with your usual HA serum on damp skin, now is the time to upgrade your facial hydrator for one with some guts.