Here are 3 benefits of hyaluronic acid that you haven’t heard before

Welcome to Hyaluronic Acid 101, where we’ll be highlighting some benefits of this skin-saving ingredient, as well as how it works in tandem with vitamin B5 in Olay‘s new range to hydrate and freshen skin.

Believe it or not, Google searches for ‘hyaluronic acid’ average an astonishing 49,500 per month, proving that this ingredient is one of the most in-demand in skincare.

So, what actually is hyaluronic acid?

Often referred to as a ‘moisture magnet’, it’s a naturally occurring compound found throughout our body’s connective tissue, which provides support and lubrication. In the skin, it plays an important role in water transfer and maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier.

As we age, natural levels in our skin decrease, which can lead to dryness, and thankfully, innovative brands such as Olay have incorporated it into skincare as a powerful humectant which, depending on the molecular weight, can hold many times its own weight in water, providing surface skin hydration.

It does not, however, stimulate the production of naturally occurring hyaluronic acid, and it does not penetrate deeply into the skin. In fact, some studies suggest it can actually pull moisture from the deeper layers of the skin, if used on its own. This is why Olay’s Hyaluronic24 + Vitamin B5 Day Gel uses a powerful combination of actives including Glycerin, to hydrate the deeper levels of the skin.

Before you incorporate hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine, here are three benefits you may not be aware of…

Fortification

As we know, the skin’s main function is protection, but in addition to providing armour for our internal organs, it also serves as a barrier against harmful toxins occurring in the world around us. From the sun’s UV rays to pollutants in the atmosphere around us, our skin can become dried out, dark spots may appear, and fine lines may begin to emerge.

Hyaluronic acid fortifies the epidermis’ barriers, helping to lock in moisture and slow down the deterioration of the lipid barrier, or fatty acids that hold in water and prevent irritants from entering the skin.

Bounceback

A sad truth about ageing is that over time, the elastins in the skin begin to break down, and skin can begin to appear looser. Though hyaluronic acid can’t promise to replace or strengthen your skin’s existing elastin, it can help to tighten your overall complexion by filling it with moisturiser and firming up the contours of your face.

Overall, it will give the appearance of more youthful skin, and help to improve its resilience when used overtime. In fact, the Olay Hyaluronic24 + Vitamin B5 collection will have your skin looking visibly healthier and replenished within two weeks of consistent use.

Texture

Much the same as the way in which it makes the skin look tighter, hyaluronic acid has also been proven to smooth out the overall texture of the skin. Whether you’ve got acne scarring or fine lines, this product creates a plumping effect, promoting skin cell production that will result in smoother skin.

This three-product collection from Olay includes a Hyaluronic24 + Vitamin B5 Eye Gel Cream that instantly cools and refreshes. Just apply a pea-sized amount around the eyes before the gel cream or serum and your skin will drink it in right away.

According to Olay, 25% of women cannot find a product that provides long-lasting hydration in a lightweight gel, and they created this collection to address this concern specifically. Through their scientifically proven and uniquely crafted formula complete with active ingredients that complement one another, Olay Hyaluronic24 + Vitamin B5 goes beyond hydration to provide total moisture management from the very first application.

Crafted with proven ingredients such as niacinamide and glycerin, this collection instantly locks in moisture, provides long-lasting hydration, and helps maintain a healthy moisture barrier.

To find out more about the Olay Hyaluronic24 + Vitamin B5 collection, and to personalise your skincare routine today, head to the Olay website. Shop the range at Tesco and tesco.ie.

Photography by Pexels.