Hyaluronic Acid

What it is

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that can hold many times its weight in water. In skincare, it's typically formulated in multiple molecular weights — larger molecules stay on the surface, smaller ones can reach a bit deeper — often blended together in the same product. Despite the name, it's not an exfoliating acid; it's a humectant, functionally closer to glycerin than to AHAs or BHAs.

What it does

Hyaluronic acid draws moisture to the skin's surface, which is why it's a foundational ingredient in hydrating serums and moisturizers across nearly every skin type.

Who it’s for

Nearly every skin type, especially anyone dealing with dehydration (a lack of water, distinct from oil-based dryness) or layering multiple actives that can be drying.

Possible benefits

• Draws and holds moisture at the skin's surface
• Generally suitable across dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin
• Often used to soften the look of fine dehydration lines temporarily
• Layers well underneath richer moisturizers or occlusives

Irritation & compatibility considerations

Hyaluronic acid is considered one of the lowest-irritation ingredients in mainstream skincare. The main formulation caveat is environmental: in very low-humidity conditions, a humectant applied without a moisturizer or occlusive sealed on top can theoretically pull moisture from deeper skin layers rather than only the air, which is why it's usually recommended to apply it to damp skin and seal it with a moisturizer.

How it fits into a routine

Applied to damp skin after cleansing (and after any water-based actives), then followed by a moisturizer to help lock the hydration in. Works morning and night and layers with virtually everything else in a routine.