Hyaluronic Acid - Your New Best Friend

Hyaluronic Acid (or HA) is one of the most popular buzz words regarding skincare nowadays. It is the most sought-after ingredient, and it is also often time misused or misunderstood. This amazing ingredient has been around forever - literally. It’s what our skin already naturally has. Thanks to good ole marketing, a moisturizer is no longer a moisturizer unless it has the words Hyaluronic Acid plastered all over it. Many confuse HA with Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), which are superficial exfoliating acids. Others think that because the word “acid” is in Hyaluronic Acid that it means this too will be exfoliating. Again, incorrect.

HA is perfect for anyone, any skin type, any skin concern (especially those who need an extra boost of hydration). Since HA is found naturally in our skin you can’t be allergic to it and your skin also absorbs hyaluronic acid more easily since it is already familiar with it. Rightfully so, we should be shouting this amazing ingredient from the mountain tops because of its incredible ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. Hyaluronic Acid is a water binding molecule, so it attracts more water and more hydration to the area it is being used. This is especially helpful for those who are naturally dry, dehydrated, living in a desert climate (ahem, AZ), or even oily skin types who do not want a heavy moisturizer!

Why should I use an HA serum?

Hyaluronic Acid is found naturally in the skin, the eyes, connective tissues, and joints. Although HA is currently present in your skin and body, as we age our skin becomes increasingly dry and loses moisture. Add in any environmental and lifestyle dehydration and your skin quickly loses its firmness, becomes less supple, and fine lines and wrinkles become more exaggerated. Using a Hyaluronic Acid in your routine can replenish the moisture that your skin may be lacking which can improve the appearance of fine lines and smoothness. The more hydrated you are the less those fine lines, wrinkles, and crepey texture show. Anyone and everyone can and should be using an HA product! Yes, even the most sensitive rosacea or acne client can use a hyaluronic acid product.

What kind of Hyaluronic Acid should I be using?

Here at ZONA we are always going to recommend medical grade products. Medical grade means they contain ingredients that have been clinically proven to have a positive effect on the skin. This means the active ingredients are going to be more potent and beneficial to your skincare needs.

Here are a few of our favorites:

• Skinceuticals B5 Hydrating Gel – Attracts moisture to the skin. It replenishes nutrients and enhances radiance. This product leaves the skin feeling supple and smooth. - $83
• Skinceuticals HA Intensifier – Amplifies the skin’s hyaluronic acid levels by 30%! It aslo improves the appearance of firmness by 11% and facial plumpness by 23%! HA Intensifier helps prevent the breakdown of hyaluronic acid, delivers long-lasting hydration, and visibly smooths skin texture by 18%. - $100
• Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Gel – Simultaneously soothes and hydrates sensitive skin! This helps to improve the appearance of discoloration and uneven skin tone. Ideal for reducing the look of redness. - $67
• SkinBetter Science Hydrating Boosting Cream – Provides soothing hydration and a velvety finish. It uses a unique combination of ceramides and botanical lipids to hydrate the skin and provide a smooth and supple, yet airy finish. - $69
• Revision Skincare Hydrating Serum – Provides short-and long-term moisturization and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This serum keeps skin uniformly hydrated, alleviates tightness, and moisturizes without leaving skin feeling sticky. - $83

Still unsure of what products would be best for you? Come in for a skin consultation and let our experts help guide you on which products and treatments would be best for you! Book online here or call us at 480-299-4975.