Hyaluronic acid in the skin
Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the body that is produced independently. Contained in heart valves, muscle, pulmonary and nervous tissues, brain, lymph nodes.
50% of hyaluronic acid in the body is found in the skin - this is the main organ for the synthesis and storage of the polysaccharide.
For example, after serious injuries and operations, the turgor of the skin decreases sharply due to its consumption for the restoration of organs and tissues. Hyaluronic acid affects the general condition of the body.
With age, the synthesis of hyaluronic acid slows down, which leads to the appearance of signs of aging :
- Dry and dehydrated skin
- Formation of wrinkles
- Loss of elasticity
Hyaluronic acid does not have an exfoliating effect (unlike the well-known glycolic or salicylic acids). It has a hygroscopic effect - attracts water.
It has a large molecular weight and is capable of holding water 1000 times its own weight.
Hyaluronic acid in cosmetics
Modern cosmetics use synthetic hyaluronic acid, which comes in 2 types:
- High molecular weight hyaluronic acid (Hyaluronic Acid)
The large size of the molecules does not allow penetration into the deep layers of the skin and is not able to overcome the epidermal barrier. It is located on the surface of the skin, attracts water from the air and creates a protective hydrophilic film on the surface of the skin.
Indicated for dehydrated skin, for skin healing and after traumatic professional cosmetic procedures (for example, peelings).
- Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (Sodium Hyaluronate)
Overcomes the epidermal barrier, works in all layers of the epidermis. Attracts water, straightening fine wrinkles instantly. Gives skin elasticity.
It is this type of hyaluronic acid that should be included in high-quality moisturizing hyaluronic serums.
Terms of use
Regardless of the manufacturer, there are a number of rules for using the product. Firstly, until the age of 30, neither women nor men require additional control of the skin's water balance, so it is better to abstain from serums. Secondly, you need to carefully study the instructions for the specific composition.
Various uses
One of the most popular ways to apply hyaluronic acid is as a stand-alone moisturizer. In this case, the product is usually mixed with clean water. The result is a gel that is applied to the face, avoiding the area around the eyes, neck and décolleté. The serum forms a nourishing film that does not need to be washed off.
The film does not shine on the skin, does not tighten it, and is not felt in any way. This is a good leveling base for makeup that protects pores from clogging makeup.
No less popular is adding hyaluronic acid directly to your usual nourishing face cream. Usually mix a couple of drops of serum with a single portion of cream. The resulting mixture is rubbed into the skin with circular, massage movements. This method is very convenient and fast, and does not require extra time.
The third common method of application is to apply the serum before applying the cream. In this case, the product is dropped onto the skin of the face in the area of the cheeks, forehead, chin and bridge of the nose, then rubbed in. After the serum is absorbed (30-60 seconds), the usual nourishing cream is beaten in with your fingertips. Hyaluronic acid fills all wrinkles, and the cream reliably secures it in the upper layers of the epidermis. On average, it takes about 30-40 minutes to penetrate the lower layers of the dermis.
It is recommended to use cosmetics from the same brand and series in tandem. Typically, the cream additionally contains collagen, which is also responsible for skin elasticity.
Eye Serum
This is a separate type of cosmetic product that is applied exclusively to the upper eyelid. It is not recommended to rub the serum with your hands; just drop a drop near each eye and wait for absorption. Additionally, you can apply eye cream and the area around the eyes from the same series.
Experts advise working the products into the skin rather than just rubbing them in.
How does hyaluronic acid work in serum?
We remind you that we are talking about low molecular weight hyaluronic acid.
1. Skin hydration
Attracts and holds water molecules inside the epidermis.
2. Conductor function
In the epidermis, where there is no active microcirculation, it works as a conductor for active ingredients - vitamins and microelements necessary to maintain the process of cellular renewal.
3. Antioxidant
Hyaluronic acid is an antioxidant - it eliminates free radicals, especially during sun exposure.
When receiving a minimum dose of UV radiation, the concentration of hyaluronic acid drops by 20% , and during this period it works as an antioxidant, not a hydrant.
This explains the special demand for hyaluronic serum in spring and summer.
What it is
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Serum is a product that should be selected not according to skin type, but depending on its condition and complaints. A distinctive feature is a high concentration of one or several active ingredients. Most serums (except oil-based products) have a light texture and are absorbed fairly quickly. Usually a few drops are enough to cover the entire face.
Serums with hyaluronic acid
Modern manufacturers of professional cosmetics use low molecular weight hyaluronic acid in their compositions.
The difference between professional, and I must say, not budget hyaluronic serums is the following: in addition to HA itself, the composition includes a number of active ingredients that work on various skin problems.
To summarize, in a modern, working serum, hyaluronic acid is not the main, but an accompanying ingredient .
Examples of serums with hyaluronic acid
Serum B5 moisturizing with hyaluronic acid DermaQuest is a universal, powerful moisturizing serum. Contains 40% hyaluronic acid!
Indications : dry and dehydrated skin (all types).
Composition: 40% hyaluronic acid
Patented moisturizing complexes: Protective Moisturizer Complex and Moisturizing Phytoamine Biocomplex.
Complexes that increase the synthesis of your own collagen and hyaluronic acid: Aktifirm TS and MDI Complex.
Panthenol 5%
Serum B5 moisturizing mattifying for oily skin DermaQuest is a moisturizing serum for oily/combination/problem skin.
Indications: Dehydrated oily/combination/problem skin
Composition: 20% hyaluronic acid
Lilac Lilac stem cells, AC.NETTM and Evermat TM complex - have a sebum-regulating effect, normalize the amount and composition of sebum.
White Willow Bark Extract is a natural source of salicylic acid.
Aktifirm TS and MDI complexes.
HydraFirm 3D moisturizing anti-aging serum is a serum with a powerful anti-aging composition.
Indications : age-related changes after 35 years and older
Composition: 30% hyaluronic acid
6 types of plant stem cells with anti-aging, antioxidant and brightening effects
Botulinum-like peptides with botox effect
Peptides and patented complexes that increase the synthesis of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin to smooth out wrinkles and increase elasticity.
Serum B3 with Niacinamide for the face is a rejuvenating serum for the face after 30 years.
Indications: age from 30 years, increased sebum production, tendency to pigmentation, lack of collagen.
Composition: 4% hyaluronic acid
Niacinamide 5% - normalizes sebum production, regulates pigment formation, soothes the skin
Myosept50 – “smart Botox” – instantly blocks the hyperactivity of facial muscles
Papyrus Stem Cells
Vitamin C 4%
Why do you need a facial serum and how to choose it - an expert’s explanation
Improving the effectiveness of basic cosmetics, moisturizing the skin, fighting inflammation and much more. What else can the essence of a person do? We will tell you why serums are needed and understand how to properly use valuable care products. Bonus - the best serum for all skin types.
Cosmo.Ru edition Picture above
High concentration of active ingredients, light texture and multitasking - this is the essence of care. I'm still wondering if you need it? Let's find out why you should use a facial serum, how to use it correctly and how to choose the right cosmetic product for your skin. It's never too late to start!
The content of the article
Facial serum - why use it?
Essence is a skin care product with a high concentration of active ingredients. This is the essence of improving the impact of basic care. As a general rule, apply serum after cleansing and before wetting. Valuable maintenance tools can solve several problems:
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- Signs of aging;
- Dark spots and hyperpigmentation;
- Acne and clogged pores;
- dry;
- Uneven skin tone, redness and tenderness.
Let's face it: in the beauty market today you can find a lot of products that don't need to be included in your routine. However, whey is not a suitable product. There are 5 reasons why you should put serum in your cosmetic bag:
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Improves skin texture with serum collagen.
After regular use of the serum to reduce age spots and acne.
Reduces visible pores, which means less blackheads and pimples.
Reduce facial swelling.
Good skin moisture.
How to make the most of serum?
- Test product. Be sure to perform a sensitivity test before use, especially if you purchased an acid serum.
- Apply a medium amount. Many people repeat the practice of bloggers: they spray the essence on their face and press the dropper onto the skin. Why can't you do it?? First of all, it's unsanitary. Secondly, you waste product and even irritate your skin. Apply less peas (literally means a few drops).
- After cleansing, apply serum. Be sure to cleanse your skin before using the serum.
- Focus on your skin type. If you have dry skin, apply it to damp skin to prevent moisture penetration. If the dermis is very sensitive, let the skin dry after washing, then apply the essence. Otherwise, wait for the stimulus.
- Do not use dyes or fragrances. The serum contains active substances. Additional ingredients will prevent the absorption of cosmetics.
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How to use facial essence?
It is not enough to buy an effective facial serum. It is important to understand the features of its use. Explain how to apply in your best interests. Spoiler alert: Don't follow beauty bloggers.
When is the best time to use the serum, day or evening?
The facial serum can be used morning and evening. If you use the serum at night, be careful not to overdo it as the night cream is already very thick.
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Once is not enough for the serum to work. The first visible changes appear only after 4-6 weeks of normal use. Of course, if you use a simple moisturizing essence, your skin will be well hydrated after use.
- in the morning. The cosmetologist recommends adding a light serum containing vitamin C to your daily (morning) care, which will protect the skin from damage by free radicals throughout the day. Vitamin C is also suitable for lightening skin after age spots and acne. If you have sensitive skin, use an active vitamin C serum once a week and monitor your skin's reaction.
- night. Choose a hyaluronic acid serum that deeply hydrates your skin and keeps it smooth. If you use nighttime acne treatments or aging cosmetics that dry out or irritate the dermis, apply multiple layers of moisturizer.
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At what age is it best to use essence?
An essence is basically a skin care product with a very high concentration of nutrients, moisturizers and antioxidants. Potent ingredients can influence cellular metabolism. Therefore, positive measures are more likely to overload young skin than have a positive effect on it. The ideal age to access the serum is 20-30 years. Over time, you will need to change the serum to accommodate your skin's new needs.
How to apply essence correctly?
If used incorrectly, the service will not work.
First, remove any dirt, oil, or protective cream from your skin.
After cleansing, use a floral water toner to further cleanse the dermis and restore the skin's pH balance. Choose a toner that suits your skin type.
Then apply the essence to your skin, but not in the same way as the popular beauty blogger gave you. Apply a few drops of essence to a clean palm and rub gently. Then evenly distribute the active cosmetics over the entire face using light pressing movements. Pat the essence lightly to allow it to penetrate into the skin. Don't hit the face too hard.
Using your fingers, apply with a hammer to particularly sensitive areas of the face to distribute the product, i.e., the corners of the eyes and nose.
Using gentle movements, apply two drops again to the neck and shoulder area.
Wait until the treatment product is completely absorbed before applying moisturizer.
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How to choose a serum that suits your skin type?
It is impossible to buy a serum and get the desired result. When choosing cosmetics, consider your skin type and personal skin needs. Different formulas solve different problems, so we'll tell you how to find effective care formulas.
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Dry skin
Hyaluronic acid is a particularly effective ingredient for dry skin. The essence of hyaluronic acid moisturizes the skin well, making it more elastic and resistant to dryness. Other ingredients such as sodium hyaluronate, seaweed extract and vitamin C are also suitable for dry skin. These substances not only fill tired skin with moisture, but also protect it from harmful free radicals and ultraviolet radiation.
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Mixed skin
If your skin is prone to acne, take a closer look at mandelic acid essence. This composition is great for combination skin that constantly suffers from acne. Facial acid serum can also highlight pimples and dark spots very well.
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Also, do not forget to rejuvenate and moisturize combination skin - feel free to add a serum with hyaluronic acid to your care.
Brandi skin
To slow down the aging process of the skin and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, cosmetologists recommend focusing on serums containing antioxidants. Start with beauty products that contain vitamins C and A. These will help protect your skin from free radical-induced aging and increase collagen levels.
In addition, cosmetologists recommend paying attention to serums containing peptides. These anti-aging agents strengthen skin cells, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Keep in mind that anti-aging peptides and antioxidant serums work best when combined with sunscreens SPF 30 or higher and retinol creams. Important note - do not use retinol and vitamin C in the same treatment phase as these substances work at different pH levels.
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