Hyaluronic acid is everywhere in skincare — in serums, moisturisers, eye creams, sheet masks and even injectables. It is genuinely one of the most effective ingredients for skin hydration and plumping, but most people use it incorrectly, significantly reducing its effectiveness. Here is everything you need to know about hyaluronic acid, including the common mistakes to avoid and the best clinical formulas available at Esthe Clinic.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan — a type of sugar molecule — that is found throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in skin, joints and eyes. In skin, it is a key component of the extracellular matrix and plays a critical role in maintaining hydration and structural support.
What makes hyaluronic acid remarkable is its capacity to hold water — a single gram of hyaluronic acid can hold up to six litres of water. In young skin, high levels of hyaluronic acid contribute to the plump, dewy, bouncy quality we associate with youthful appearance. As we age, hyaluronic acid levels in the skin decline, contributing to dryness, a loss of plumpness and the formation of fine lines — particularly the fine dehydration lines around the eyes and mouth.
The Important Distinction: Hydration vs Moisturisation
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant — it works by attracting and binding water molecules. It does not add oil to the skin or act as a barrier against water loss. This makes it a hydrator rather than a moisturiser in the technical sense — and understanding this distinction is important for using it effectively.
In a skincare routine, hyaluronic acid should always be followed by a moisturiser or oil that seals the hydration in. Applied to dry skin in a dry environment without a follow-up moisturiser, hyaluronic acid can actually draw moisture from deeper layers of the skin to the surface, where it evaporates — temporarily making skin feel drier than before.
The Mistake Most People Make with Hyaluronic Acid
The most common mistake is applying hyaluronic acid to completely dry skin and then not following up with a moisturiser. For best results, apply hyaluronic acid serum to skin that is still slightly damp after cleansing — this gives the hyaluronic acid water to draw from at the surface — and immediately follow with your moisturiser to lock it in. In very dry indoor environments (particularly in winter with central heating), consider using a facial mist before applying your hyaluronic acid serum to ensure there is enough ambient moisture for it to work with.
Molecular Weight Matters
Not all hyaluronic acid serums are equivalent. The molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid determines how deeply it penetrates the skin. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid sits on the skin's surface and provides immediate surface hydration and a plumping effect. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid penetrates more deeply, hydrating at the dermal level and supporting structural skin hydration over time. The most effective formulas use multiple molecular weights — or, like SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan, work by amplifying the skin's own natural hyaluronic acid production rather than simply applying it from outside.
The Best Hyaluronic Acid Products at Esthe Clinic
SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan
Our strongest recommendation for skin hydration. Rather than simply applying hyaluronic acid topically, HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan works by amplifying the skin's own capacity to produce and retain hyaluronic acid — using a complex of proxylane, multi-glycans and hyaluronic acid. In clinical studies it has been shown to increase skin's hyaluronic acid levels by up to 30%, with significant improvements in skin plumpness, firmness and the appearance of fine lines. An exceptional serum that delivers visible, measurable results with consistent use.
SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Serum
Combines hyaluronic acid with Vitamin B5 (panthenol) for a dual-action hydrating and healing formula. B5 enhances skin's water-binding capacity while supporting barrier repair — making this an ideal serum for dehydrated, blemish-prone or post-procedure skin. Lightweight enough for oily skin types and suitable for daily use morning and evening.
SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Masque
An intensive once or twice weekly hydration treatment — a leave-on gel masque with hyaluronic acid and B5 that delivers a concentrated dose of hydration and barrier support. Use after cleansing in the evening, apply a generous layer, leave for 10 to 15 minutes and remove with a damp cloth, then follow with your serum and moisturiser. Particularly beneficial during winter months or periods of increased skin stress.
Is Hyaluronic Acid Suitable for All Skin Types?
Yes — hyaluronic acid is one of the most universally suitable skincare ingredients available. It is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free in most well-formulated products, and suitable for oily, dry, sensitive, acne-prone and mature skin alike. It pairs well with virtually every other active ingredient and can be layered beneath Vitamin C, retinol, SPF and moisturiser without any interaction concerns.
Hyaluronic Acid vs Collagen Supplements: Do You Need Both?
Topical hyaluronic acid and oral collagen supplements address skin hydration and structure through different but complementary mechanisms. Topical hyaluronic acid works at the skin surface and upper dermis to immediately improve visible hydration and plumpness. Collagen supplements support the structural scaffold of the skin from within. For the most comprehensive approach to skin hydration and anti-ageing, using both alongside a consistent topical skincare routine delivers superior results to either alone.
Browse our full hydrating skincare range at Esthe Clinic including SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier and Hydrating B5, or book a consultation for a personalised hydration routine.