Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain moisture and strengthen the skin's barrier, which ensures better hydrated and younger looking skin.

Hyaluronic acid for skin

Regular use of skincare with hyaluronic acid will help to protect the outer skin layer and enhance moisture content, making it a must-have for dehydrated skin. It also has powerful anti-ageing properties, so it can do wonders to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, as hyaluronic acid is so gentle, it can regularly be used on even the most sensitive skin types, for a softer, smoother, and more hydrated look.

To learn about the science behind how it works, see: What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid serums, moisturizers, toners and more

Paula’s Choice Skincare features a range of products that include hyaluronic acid, so you can choose how to add it to your skincare routine. You can combine it with most other skincare ingredients without any issues and even ‘layer’ multiple hyaluronic acid products to maximize the benefits. So, you could start your day with a hyaluronic acid face wash, refresh with a hyaluronic acid toner and then slather on a hyaluronic acid moisturizer afterwards for an extra boost of dewiness.

Eagle-eyed label checkers might also notice that we include sodium hyaluronate in many of these formulations. This is a salt derived from hyaluronic acid that gives most of the same benefits, but is more easily absorbed into the skin, as it has a lower molecular weight.

When to apply hyaluronic acid in skincare routine

If you’re wondering when to apply hyaluronic acid in a skincare routine, it’s most effective when smoothed onto slightly damp skin. It’s a ‘humectant’ that draws moisture to the epidermis, either from the air if it is humid, or from the underlying dermis in dry conditions. So, if you use it on dry skin in a dry environment, it can draw water from your skin and make it less hydrated.

For the best results, use a hyaluronic acid serum on slightly damp skin after cleansing, but before applying moisturizer, sunscreen, or base make-up. Or for a hyaluronic acid moisturizer, simply use it as you would any other moisturizer: after cleansing and toning, but before applying sunscreen.

BHA and hyaluronic acid

Salicylic acid, also known as BHA, is a gentle exfoliating ingredient that unclogs pores and can help to prevent breakouts and blackheads. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits, which means it can work to calm skin and minimize redness. Skin that is prone to acne or rosacea can benefit from using both BHA and hyaluronic acid. The BHA will gently polish and prep, ready for the plumping and hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid, for smoother, calmer, healthier-looking skin.

FAQ's

1. What is hyaluronic acid, and how does it benefit my skin?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. It helps plump fine lines, hydrate dry skin, and improve elasticity without clogging pores. Paula’s Choice HA formulations are lightweight and suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

2. Which Paula’s Choice hyaluronic acid product is right for me?

• For intense hydration: Booster Hyaluronic Acid + 2% B5 (pure HA serum for layering).

• For dry/sensitive skin: Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer (HA + ceramides).

• For oily/combo skin: Water-Infusing Electrolyte Moisturizer (lightweight HA + electrolytes).

• For anti-aging: Peptide Booster (HA + peptides for firmness).

3. Can I use hyaluronic acid with other active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C?

Yes! HA pairs well with almost all actives:

• Vitamin C: Apply HA after vitamin C serums to lock in hydration.

• Retinol: Use HA before or after retinol to counteract dryness.

• Exfoliants (AHA/BHA): Follow exfoliation with HA to soothe and rehydrate.

4. How should I apply hyaluronic acid for best results?

• Apply to damp skin (or mist with water) to maximize moisture absorption.

• Layer under moisturizer to seal in hydration.

• Use AM and PM for continuous hydration.

5. Is hyaluronic acid suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin?

Yes! Paula’s Choice HA products are fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and gentle. The Booster Hyaluronic Acid + 2% B5 is especially great for reactive skin, as panthenol (B5) calms irritation.