Hyaluronic Acid: Everything you need to know

Despite the slightly scary (and very scientific) name, this easily accessible product is now cropping up on most beauty aisles and here’s why

You’ve probably heard about hyaluronic acid in the last year or so, as the popularity of acids is on the rise in the beauty world. However, what you probably don’t know is that our bodies already produce hyaluronic acid as a natural lubricant – it simply decreases in age.

It can be found in a variety of product types, most commonly serums and moisturisers, and the key benefits include plumping and smoothing the skin. Depending on the type of product you choose, different formulations will give you different results, from rehydrating dry skin to locking in moisture or reducing fine lines.

We take a look at some of the best hyaluronic acid products for every budget and every skin concern.

1. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, £5.90

For just £5.90 for 30ml, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is one of the most affordable products on our list. Once you get past the scientific jargon, you’ll find that because hyaluronic acid is “too large of a molecule to penetrate the skin”, it can commonly “sit on the surface and draw moisture out” but this oil-free, alcohol-free and vegan serum actually works to offer deep hydration and a plumping effect.

2. Glossier Super Bounce, £24

Aside from the cute pastel packaging, this serum is the perfect addition to your bathroom cabinet. Glossier recommends using it once a day before the Priming Moisturiser and the clue’s in the name as it claims to make skin ‘bounce’ back. This will allow for plump skin and create the perfect base for applying makeup without making your skin oily.

3. Pestle & Mortar Hyaluronic Serum, £36

Bringing it back to basics is Pestle & Mortar, the brand that prides itself on simple yet effective skincare solutions. This cruelty-free range recently landed at Harvey Nichols Birmingham and we can’t get enough of the fuss-free, simplistic packaging. Smooth two-three drops of the Hyaluronic Serum on clean skin every morning and night for an intense treatment which will soften skin over time.

4. Rodial Dragon’s Blood Hyaluronic Tonic, £34

Give your skin an instant boost with the Rodial Dragon’s Blood Hyaluronic Toner. Perfect if you’re jetting off somewhere exotic and need a little spritz throughout the day to keep your skin feeling fresh, this travel-friendly tonic also contains rose water to calm the skin and Vitamin B3 to brighten.