In this merry month’s first blog, we discussed some basics about hyaluronic acid and how its job is to help keep your skin and joints (among other areas) hydrated and lubricated. Hopefully, you went out and grabbed a moisturizer that has hyaluronic acid in it for a friend or partner for a stocking stuffer.
Now that we’re getting ready to ring out 2021 (no one will miss you much) and bring in 2022, let’s get into some other issues about hyaluronic acid, not for gift giving, but for your knowledge about this stuff and your skin.
Hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate
Everyone has heard of hyaluronic acid. No one has heard of sodium hyaluronate. Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form of hyaluronic acid. It is a water-soluble salt that holds 1000 times its weight in water.
Both hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate are used in beauty products. Marketers refer to both as “hyaluronic acid,” but there are some key differences. Sodium hyaluronate has a much smaller molecule size, which allows it to penetrate the skin more effectively.
Also, you know how some serums claim to be made of 75% or up to 99% hyaluronic acid? That’s bunk. These products are actually in solution (remember it is a salt), and they are 1% to 2% of the overall solution, with the rest being…water.
Besides, if you had too much sodium hyaluronate, anything over 4%, this would be too salty, and it would dry your skin out. Not exactly what you were hoping for, eh? That’s why the highest concentration in any of these products is 2%.
A couple hyaluronic acid facts and how to use it
- What is it? It is a hydrator.
- Main benefits? Moisturizes the skin and replenishes cell moisture.
- Who can use it? It’s safe and effective for all skin types.
- How often? You can use hyaluronic moisturizer twice a day topically.
- What does it couple up with? HA plays well with vitamin C, vitamin B5, and glycolic acid.
There, now you’re an expert with hyaluronic acid. Look for it in moisturizers and your skin will love you for it. But don’t go overboard and don’t believe those 90% HA claims. They are all nothing more than 1% to 2% hyaluronic acid based in water solution. No need to spend the price of a car payment on the stuff!
When you’re not moisturizing your winter skin in the city, this is also a great time to ring in 2022 with less unwanted hair. Call the team at Romeo & Juliette Laser Hair Removal, (212) 750-2000, and we’ll put our 12 lasers on the task! Happy Hair-Free New Year!