Long before peptides took over our vanities, there was hyaluronic acid (HA). Ushering in a wave of gentle, ingredient-focused skincare, HA proved that an active didn’t have to exfoliate or irritate to make a noticeable difference. As Dr. Shereene Idriss previously told Vogue, “Because of the popularity of hyaluronic acid, it is in almost every other product you’ll find.” Flip over just about any serum, moisturizer, or complexion products (think: skin tints or even blushes), and there’s a good chance you’ll spot it on the ingredient list.
While most of us are familiar with the term, you may still wonder: What exactly is this superstar ingredient? According to Dr. David Shafer, MD, FACS, a double board-certified plastic surgeon, hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that plays a crucial role in maintaining your skin’s moisture balance. Translation? It keeps skin hydrated by drawing water into the epidermis, resulting in a plump appearance. And even though hyaluronic acid is seemingly the fix-all ingredient, Dr. Idriss reminds us to be intentional with our product choices. Rather than layering multiple HA products, she recommends limiting yourself to just one or two in your skin-care routine to avoid irritation.
Vogue’s Favorite Hyaluronic Acid Skincare
Part of its popularity comes from its versatility: Hyaluronic acid plays nice with others. For starters, it’s generally well tolerated across skin types. Plus, it works in harmony with other ingredients like peptides, ceramides, niacinamide, and even vitamin C, amplifying the benefits of your entire skin-care routine.
Whether you’re battling dryness, fine lines, or simply want a dewy glow, hyaluronic acid can help. It’s a versatile ingredient that suits all skin types, including sensitive skin. Plus, its anti-aging properties make it a favorite for more mature skin types seeking smoother, firmer skin.
So, where to begin? To save you from sifting through an overwhelming sea of options, we’ve enlisted experts—and a few Vogue editors—to share their top hyaluronic acid skin-care picks.
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Best French Pharmacy: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Why We Love It: Beyond being a tried-and-true hyaluronic acid serum, La Roche-Posay included a few more skin-soothing ingredients to upgrade the formula. For starters, vitamin B5 (aka panthenol) offers skin-soothing benefits, while preventing water loss. Meanwhile, madecassoside (a form of centella asiatica) helps to boost collagen and prevent free radical damage. And as with all La Roche-Posay products, thermal spring water is rich with skin-soothing minerals. Plus, the formula is dermatologist and allergy-tested.
