Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a popular ingredient in the skincare world. And for good reason. So today, let’s review what makes it such a skincare superstar!

Unlike many other acids, including glycolic acid and salicylic acid, HA isn’t an exfoliant. Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in the body. It’s a slippery, gel-like substance that’s found in the joints, eyes and skin.⁽¹⁾ It helps to keep joints lubricated and prevent dry eyes. And of course, it keeps skin hydrated and plump. As we age, our bodies produce less of this important organic compound.

Top 3 reasons to add hyaluronic acid to your skincare routine

There are three main reasons to consider adding hyaluronic acid to your skincare routine.

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant

What does this mean? 

Simply put, humectants are compounds that can attract and hold onto water. And among all of the humectants, hyaluronic acid is one of the most effective. It’s said that a quarter teaspoon of HA can hold up to 24 cups of water.⁽¹⁾ That's insane! And it’s exactly why HA is such an incredible skincare ingredient. 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dehydrated skin (itchiness, dull complexion, sunken features), hyaluronic acid can give your skin the hydration boost it craves! A small study found that topical hyaluronic acid, applied twice a day, improved skin hydration by 96% over eight weeks!⁽²⁾ When the skin is properly hydrated, it looks younger.

Hyaluronic acid minimizes signs of aging

The same study that found hyaluronic acid greatly improves skin hydration also found that it improves visible signs of aging. Over the course of the study, researchers noted:⁽²⁾

• Reduced skin redness for a more even complexion
• Improved skin texture for softer skin
• Improved skin elasticity and firmness for a more youthful appearance
• Decreased wrinkle depth (up to 40%)

The powerful hydration properties of hyaluronic acid lead to softer, more supple skin with minimized wrinkles and an even complexion. Best of all, these benefits come without harsh side effects!

Hyaluronic acid is skin friendly

Hyaluronic acid is an important molecule in the skin’s extracellular matrix.⁽³⁾ It contributes to the skin's elasticity, resistance and malleability. Most of the HA in our skin is found in the dermis, aka the deeper layer of our skin. However, HA can also be found in the epidermis, which is the upper layer of our skin.⁽⁴⁾

Since hyaluronic acid is naturally made by the body, there's minimal risk of an allergic reaction when applied topically. HA is suitable for all skin types, but is especially valuable to those with dry and dehydrated skin.

Best of all, hyaluronic acid pairs well with other ingredients. It compliments other hydrating ingredients and can help to reduce the chance of irritation from harsher ingredients like retinoids.

Hyaluronic acid in Graydon Skincare products

Our water-based Fullmoon Serum is formulated with vegan hyaluronic acid derived from Cassia Augustifolia (AKA: senna) Seed Polysaccharide—a water-binding sugar that retains moisture and suppresses cutaneous cortisol induced by stress. 

Increased levels of stress and cortisol cause the skin to become dehydrated, accelerate transepidermal water loss and prematurely age the skin by making fine lines and wrinkles more pronounced.

Topical application of ​Cassia Augustifolia mimics the effects of hyaluronic acid. It provides long lasting hydration to moisturize and soften the skin and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Studies conducted by our supplier show that Cassia Angustifolia​ Seed Polysaccharide is clinically proven to be a more potent hydrator than hyaluronic acid (the industry gold standard hydration ingredient) over the course of 24 hours.​ 

Some of the most interesting research illustrates the benefits of ​Cassia Augustifolia​ on stressed skin. Stress is a well-known factor that increases dullness and dryness of the skin. ​Cassia Augustifolia Seed Polysaccharide ​provides powerful hydration to improve the complexion.

Summary

• Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by the body.
• It is a powerful humectant that can improve skin hydration up to 96%.
• Hyaluronic acid helps to minimize signs of aging.
• It is suitable for all skin types and can be mixed with other active ingredients.
• Fullmoon Serum contains vegan hyaluronic acid derived from Cassia Angustifolia (AKA: senna)​ Seed Polysaccharide, which is a more powerful hydrator than tradicional hyaluronic acid.
• Add Fullmoon Serum to your skincare routine for a more hydrated, youthful appearance.

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Can't decide between Fullmoon Serum and Moon Boost Serum? Discover how these facial serums are different and why they actually work better together.