Hyaluronic acid (HA) holds up to 1,000× its weight in water — but it’s also the ingredient people most often use wrong, sometimes leaving skin drier than before.
What it does
HA is a humectant: it draws water into the skin, plumping and smoothing. It isn’t an irritating "acid" — it’s gentle and suits every skin type, especially dry skin.
The mistake everyone makes
HA pulls moisture from wherever it can — including out of your skin in dry air. Apply it to damp skin, then seal it with moisturiser on top. On its own, in a dry climate, it can backfire.
How to use it
- Cleanse
- Apply HA serum to slightly damp skin
- Lock it in with moisturiser (this step is essential)
It layers with everything — including niacinamide, vitamin C, and retinoids — making it a great buffer for a compromised skin barrier. Follow the usual layering order: thinner serums before creams.