What Does Hyaluronic Acid Actually Do for Your Skin?

Quick answer

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it attracts and holds water. On your skin, it draws moisture to the surface so skin looks smoother, plumper and less dull, and feels softer. It's one of the simplest, most reliable ingredients for everyday hydration, and it suits nearly every skin type.

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How It Works

Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in your skin, where it helps hold moisture. In a serum, it sits on the skin's surface and draws water toward itself, which is why skin looks fresher and feels bouncier right after you apply it.

On the label: most serums list it as sodium hyaluronate, its salt form. See hyaluronic acid vs. sodium hyaluronate.

What It Does for Your Skin

1
Hydrates
Draws water to the skin's surface.
2
Smooths
Well-hydrated skin looks smoother and more even.
3
Plumps
Skin looks fuller and bouncier.
4
Layers easily
A light serum that sits well under moisturizer and sunscreen.

Hydrator vs. Moisturizer

Hyaluronic acid serum Moisturizer
Main job Adds water to the skin Helps hold moisture in
Texture Light and watery Creamier or richer
Order First, on damp skin After serums

They work best together: the serum adds hydration and the moisturizer keeps it from evaporating.

What It Won't Do

✕
Replace your moisturizer.
✕
Exfoliate. Despite the name, it isn't an exfoliating acid.
✕
Stand in for sunscreen in the morning.

Cosmedica's Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

A lightweight, non-greasy serum that pairs hyaluronic acid with vitamin B5 for everyday hydration, morning and night.

✓Hyaluronic acid + vitamin B5✓Lightweight✓Morning and night

What Customers Say

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Also available at: Amazon · Target · CVS · Walmart · iHerb

Frequently Asked Questions

What does hyaluronic acid do for your skin?

It draws water to the skin's surface, so skin looks smoother and plumper and feels softer.

Is hyaluronic acid an exfoliating acid?

No. It doesn't exfoliate or sting like glycolic or salicylic acid. It's a hydrating ingredient.

Who can use hyaluronic acid?

Nearly every skin type, including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin.

Do I still need a moisturizer?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid adds water, and a moisturizer helps hold it in.