What Is Hyaluronic Acid? Hydration Inside and Out

Hyaluronic acid, also called hyaluronan, occurs naturally in the body. It is found in the skin, eyes and joints, among other places. Its ability to bind water explains its use in moisturising products.

In cosmetics, you will find it in serums, gels and creams. Moisturising care aims to improve skin comfort and appearance. However, the presence of one ingredient does not describe the whole formulation.

Source: Cleveland Clinic – Hyaluronic Acid.

Neither a cream nor a drink is equivalent to an injectable filler. Injectable treatments belong in the hands of a qualified healthcare professional.

Source: Cleveland Clinic – methods of use.

• Cleanse gently. For dry skin, limit hot water and scrubbing.
• Add moisturising care. Cream can be applied to skin that is still slightly damp after washing. Follow the instructions for your specific serum.
• Monitor comfort. For very dry skin, a cream or ointment may suit you better than a light body lotion.
• Remember UV protection. A moisturising product does not automatically replace it.

Fragrance-free products may suit sensitive skin. If dryness persists, skin cracks or cosmetics cause burning, consult a dermatologist.

Source: AAD – recommendations for dry skin.

Hyaluronic acid food supplements are taken orally. When assessing a specific product, check the amount per daily dose, the other ingredients and the recommended use.

Results obtained with a cream or injectable product cannot automatically be attributed to a supplement. Even with a combination of collagen and hyaluronic acid, the name does not tell you which ingredient is responsible for any change.

A varied diet and adequate fluid intake remain part of everyday habits. A supplement does not replace a varied diet or an individual approach to persistently dry skin.

A serum or cream is applied to the skin; a food supplement is taken according to its packaging instructions. These forms are used differently, and one does not replace the other.

See a dermatologist for prolonged irritation or very dry skin. If you take medicines, are pregnant or are breastfeeding, discuss supplement questions with your doctor.

Further context: Cleveland Clinic – Hyaluronic Acid and AAD – dry skin.

For cosmetics: the intended use, full ingredients list, instructions and your skin's response. For supplements: the daily dose, other products you take and storage conditions.

More milligrams or more named forms in the product name do not, by themselves, compare the effectiveness of finished products. Use cosmetics with a device only when this is consistent with the instructions for both the device and the cosmetic product.