Why Is Your Skin Still Dry Even With Hyaluronic Acid? (2 of 3)

Four Common Reasons Why Hyaluronic Acid Isn’t Always Effective

Climate and Environmental Factors

If you live in a dry climate, rely heavily on air conditioning, or are in the midst of the winter months, it can be difficult for hyaluronic acid to attract the moisture in the environment. To compensate, it draws moisture from the deeper layers of the skin. Without sealing that moisture in properly, your skin is actually going to feel even drier than if you didn’t apply HA at all.

A Compromised Skin Barrier

Although HA can hydrate dry skin, it doesn’t possess healing properties. Skin damage caused by excessive cleaning, over-exfoliation, UV exposure, pollution, or the use of extra-strength ingredients increases water loss, and, unfortunately, no amount of HA will replenish that moisture.

Incorrect Application Technique

The way you’re applying HA can also impact how well it works. For instance, if your skin is completely dry, using HA isn’t going to be effective. This is because HA needs surface moisture to bind to, and so if this is lacking, it extracts the water from the skin’s deeper layers. The solution is to dampen your skin with some water, apply HA, and then lock hydration in place with the help of a lotion or other moisturizer.

Formulation Differences

The way the hyaluronic acid product that you choose was formulated makes a big difference. For instance, products with high-molecular-weight HA provide better smoothing since it sits on the surface of the skin, whereas those with low-molecular weight penetrate more deeply but don’t offer the same sustained surface-level comfort.

6 Keys To Getting Better Hydration Results

Dampen Before Applying

HA should be applied to slightly wet skin, preferably after bathing or using a hydrating mist. This gives HA the water it needs to bind. Finish with a moisturizer that contains occlusive or barrier-supporting ingredients.

Support the Skin Barrier

Opt for moisturizers formulated with fatty acids, ceramides, and niacinamide. These work best at restoring the skin barrier and enhancing the effects of HA.