How Long Does It Take Hyaluronic Acid To Work?

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When we talk about dry skin, one of the most common ingredients that comes to mind is hyaluronic acid. This is a great ingredient that helps hydrate the skin. It rarely produces any side effects because our body also naturally produces it.

Although it is already proven that it works, the real question is “How long does it take hyaluronic acid to work?” Well, that will depend on your purpose behind using hyaluronic acid. You see, hyaluronic acid is used in a variety of ways and it could help with multiple skin issues.

To answer that question we have to first know what hyaluronic acid is and what it is used for. Then we can dig into how long it will take to see those effects.

Contents

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is not only a skincare ingredient, it is a natural substance that is found in the body. You’d usually find it in the highest concentration in your joints and eyes. In the beauty industry, this substance is one of the go-to products to help make the skin glow, plump and smooth.

Our bodies naturally produce hyaluronic acid. However, due to age, our production of hyaluronic acid decreases (similar to collagen). We can stimulate hyaluronic acid production in a variety of ways such as by improving our diet.

Or we can also turn to skincare products that contain hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic acid works by getting water into the air and giving it to your skin, which is why the skin stays moisturized throughout the day. It has a very high water retention capacity.

This ingredient is usually used in various skincare products like serums and moisturizers . It is also added to other products like concealers and foundations to give them moisturizing properties. See our article on Serums and Retinol for more.

Additionally, hyaluronic acid can also come in the form of injectable fillers. Some of the most common ones you see in the market are Restylane and JUVEDERM.

These products also work like topical skincare products but they introduce hyaluronic acid into the dermal layer of the skin through an injection.

Uses of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid has many uses. To make it easier to understand, we’ll break it down into three parts. First are the natural ones produced in the body, then the artificial ones found in skincare products, and lastly the artificial ones found in dermal fillers.

Natural Hyaluronic Acid

As we’ve mentioned, hyaluronic acid is naturally produced in the body. It is always present in the body as it functions to bind to water to make various body parts moist and elastic.

That isn’t limited to the skin alone. Natural hyaluronic acid is also required by the joints, eyes, and stomach for proper function.

There are also studies that show that hyaluronic acid is also needed by the bones. It keeps the bones healthy and strong. It may also be helpful in the production of new bone tissue.

The majority of the natural hyaluronic acid is also found on the skin but aging and sun exposure can lower natural reserves.

Artificial Hyaluronic Acid In Topical Skincare Products

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The main reason for adding hyaluronic acid in topical skincare products is to keep the skin hydrated. Skincare manufacturers use the water-binding capacity of hyaluronic acid to help keep the skin elastic and moisturized.

It is usually added to creams and serums.

Apart from hydrating the skin, topical skincare products that contain hyaluronic acid also help improve the elasticity and firmness of the skin. The depth of the wrinkles is also reduced when products with hyaluronic acid are used.

Aside from topical skin care products, there are also hyaluronic acid supplements that can be taken orally. There are some studies that show that oral hyaluronic acid could still help improve the skin when it is taken regularly.

Artificial Hyaluronic Acid In Dermal Fillers

Hyaluronic acid can also be a main ingredient in injectable fillers. These injectable fillers target facial wrinkles and improve their appearance. Various studies have shown that such fillers are very effective at reducing signs of aging. It helps lessen the wrinkles and facial folds on the skin.

However, the results produced by hyaluronic acid fillers aren’t permanent, repeat treatment is needed to maintain it. This is because the body naturally and gradually breaks down the injected fillers. Injectable hyaluronic acid may not be easily available. It is usually only available at cosmetic clinics.

Furthermore, there are also injectable hyaluronic acids that aren’t just used for cosmetics. They can also aid in eye surgery. This is true for cataract removal surgery as well as for osteoarthritis treatment.

How Long Does It Take Hyaluronic Acid To Work?

If your aim for using hyaluronic acid is to moisturize or hydrate the skin, you can expect it to work within minutes. In as little as 15 minutes, hyaluronic acid can get moisture in the air and allow the skin to absorb it.

With regular use, you can maintain moisture in the skin.

The more you use hyaluronic acid correctly, the more your skin will improve. It will eventually become more elastic and the wrinkles will smooth out.

How Long to See Results From Hyaluronic Acid

It may take up to 8 weeks to clearly see the effects of hyaluronic acid on wrinkles and fine lines.

However, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t working once you applied it. You just need more time to see the difference.

It’s working behind the scenes.

Final Thoughts

Many rave about the positive effects of hyaluronic acid on the skin. The good thing about hyaluronic acid is that it instantly works on the skin. After about 15 minutes, HA can improve skin hydration. However, visible results of its effects on wrinkles and fine lines may appear at a later date. That’s because it gradually works in those areas too.

Remember that using hyaluronic acid works only when you use it regularly. The results aren’t permanent but it is very easy to use and incorporate into your skincare routine. In fact, many creams, serums, and moisturizers already have it as part of their ingredient list.

Just be consistent, and you’ll see results after 8 weeks or so.

Asterwood Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face - Plumping, Anti-Aging & Hydrating - Fragrance-Free, Pairs Well with Vitamin C Face Serum & Hylunaric Acid Moisturizer, 237 ml/8 oz