What Steps in a Skincare Routine Include Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has become a cornerstone ingredient in modern skincare, celebrated for its ability to retain moisture and improve skin texture. Its versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into various steps of a skincare routine.

1. Cleansing Stage: HA Facial Cleansers

While hyaluronic acid is primarily known for hydration, it can be incorporated into facial cleansers. HA-infused cleansers offer a gentle way to remove impurities without stripping the skin of moisture. This step is particularly suitable for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, as it helps maintain the skin' s hydration barrier during cleansing.  

- Recommended Ingredients: Hyaoligo® Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate

2. Toning Stage: Hydrating Toners 

After cleansing, HA-based toners can prep the skin for the following steps. These toners often deliver a lightweight layer of hydration, helping the skin feel plump and refreshed. They also enhance the absorption of serums and moisturizers applied afterward.  

- Recommended Ingredients: Hyaskin® Cosmetic Grade Sodium Hyaluronate 10,000-100,000 Da; 5M Hyaskin® Multiple Sodium Hyaluronate Solution; 15D Sodium Hyaluronate

3. Serum Application: Targeted Hydration  

Serums containing hyaluronic acid are among the most popular skincare products. This step allows HA to penetrate deeply into the skin, delivering hydration where it' s most needed. Low-molecular-weight sodium hyaluronate, a derivative of HA, is often used in serums to reach deeper layers of the skin. This makes it a vital component in combating dryness and fine lines.  

- Recommended Ingredients: Hyaskin® Cosmetic Grade Sodium Hyaluronate 10,000-100,000 Da; Rejuvenating 800Da

4. Eye Care: HA-Infused Eye Creams  

The delicate skin around the eyes often shows the earliest signs of aging, such as fine lines and puffiness. Eye creams containing HA provide targeted hydration, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and enhancing skin elasticity in this area. Some formulas also include additional ingredients like peptides or caffeine to address dark circles and puffiness.  

- Recommended Ingredients: Hyaskin® Cosmetic Grade Sodium Hyaluronate 1.0-1.5 million Da; HA Pro® Acetylated Sodium Hyaluronate; Treme-HA® Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide

5. Moisturizing Stage: Locking in Hydration 

Moisturizers formulated with HA seal in hydration and create a protective barrier. Medium or High-molecular-weight HA sits on the skin's surface, providing immediate hydration and smoothing effects. This step is crucial for maintaining a hydrated and plump complexion throughout the day or night.  

- Recommended Ingredients: Hyaskin® Cosmetic Grade Sodium Hyaluronate 0.8-1.5 million Da

6. Treatment Masks: Intensive Care 

Hydrating masks enriched with HA offer an additional boost of moisture. These are often used weekly or as needed to replenish the skin, especially after exposure to harsh environmental conditions.  

- Recommended Ingredients:  Hyaskin® Cosmetic Grade Sodium Hyaluronate 1.5-1.8 million Da; Treme-HA® Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide

7. Priming Stage: HA-Based Primers or Some Makeups

For those incorporating makeup into their routine, HA-infused primers can create a smooth and hydrated base. And products with low water content, such as pressed powders, BB creams, and lipsticks, can include HA to deliver hydration while maintaining their texture and performance. They help in achieving a dewy finish and improving makeup longevity by preventing dryness.  

- Recommended Ingredients: Hyacharming® Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate; Hyaskin® Cosmetic Grade Sodium Hyaluronate 1.8-2.4 million Da

8. Advanced Skincare: Specialized HA  

High-end skincare products often feature advanced HA derivatives that go beyond hydration. These specialized forms of HA can inhibit the production of inflammatory factors, promote skin elasticity, and accelerate recovery from damage. Such properties make them valuable in products designed for skin repair, anti-aging, and inflammation control, offering targeted solutions for sensitive or mature skin.  

- Recommended Ingredients: HA Pro® Acetylated Sodium Hyaluronate; Zinc Hyaluronate

Optimizing Results

To maximize the benefits of hyaluronic acid, it' s important to apply it to slightly damp skin. This helps HA draw in moisture more effectively. Additionally, layering HA products with other humectants or emollients can further enhance hydration. 

Hyaluronic acid' s ability to integrate into multiple steps of a skincare routine highlights its versatility and effectiveness. From cleansing to priming, it addresses hydration needs at every level. Focusfreda, with over 30 years of expertise in sodium hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) production, supplies high-quality raw materials to meet diverse skincare formulation requirements, ensuring innovation and reliability in the global skincare market.