HYALURONIC ACID (HA)
What is hyaluronic acid?
Essentially a type of “sugar”, naturally occurring, in the body, primarily in the skin, that acts as a water magnet and effectively binds and retains large amounts of moisture, acting as a poplar humectant and helps provide the skin with deep hydration.
Does it matter what kind of hyaluronic acid I use?
Yes, every serum or every cream having hyaluronic acid, may or may not penetrate the skin properly, owing to the large molecular size of hyaluronic acid. HA can be low molecular weight, very low molecular weight, or high molecular weight. No rocket science in guessing, which one would be capable of permeating the skin better, yup you guessed it right the low molecular weight or the very low molecular weight.
Put simply, the high molecular weight HA stays on the skin surface, which the low molecular weight HA will penetrate and work on a more cellular level giving optimum benefits
How does topical hyaluronic acid work?
HA works not just as a hydration agent:
- Effective hydration and humectant properties - plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Activates collagen synthesis by stimulating the collagen producing cells the fibroblasts.
- Anti inflammatory
- Helps restore the skin barrier
Is hyaluronic acid safe for all skin types?
Typically, a very safe agent, however, better avoided if you have very oily / acne prone skin as the only agent in use, as it may cause excessive hydratyion leading to aggravation of the acne.
Secondly, if you’re sensitive to HA, one must avoid these products.
So patients with acne shouldn’t use HA?
Individuals with acne may use HA, in a thin gel-based moisturizer or a cleanser, but maybe avoided as serum, as they are concentrated. HA can be used in acne patients for hydration and barrier repair, however not as a treatment for acne.
How should I use hyaluronic acid?
HA serum or moisturizer – apply to clean, damp skin, ideally after cleansing and toning, and before applying sunscreen.
HA based cleanser – twice daily and can be used a cleanser cum mask as with TFP CLEAN.
Can I use hyaluronic acid with other skincare products?
Yes, hyaluronic acid can be used with other hydrating ingredients like niacinamide, AHA’s/ BHA’s, vitamin C or retinol. However, combining actives varies from skin to skin so do consult your dermatologist before deciding what works best for you.
What’s sodium hyaluronate?
Sodium hyaluronate is a type of HA, which has a lower molecular weight than hyaluronic acid, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin. Also, sodium hyaluronate is more stable and less likely to oxidize than hyaluronic acid. Oxidation can change the color, consistency, and potency of products. We have used sodium hyaluronate in TFP RESTORE to offer you hydration and protect your barrier.
Can I use hyaluronic acid while pregnant?
HA is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products during pregnancy.