Ingredient · INCI: Hyaluronic Acid / Sodium Hyaluronate
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that helps the skin's surface hold on to moisture. In cosmetics it is often used in its salt form, sodium hyaluronate.
What it is
Hyaluronic acid is a substance the body makes naturally; it is found in skin and connective tissue. For cosmetics it is usually produced by fermentation.
On ingredient lists it may appear as Hyaluronic Acid or as Sodium Hyaluronate, its more commonly used salt form.
Why it's used
It binds water, so it is used to help skin feel hydrated and supple.
In products that are applied and rinsed off, its role is mainly to support the skin's feel during and immediately after use.
Good to know
- Hyaluronic acid is generally well tolerated.
- “Contains hyaluronic acid” says nothing on its own about how much is in a product — look at where it sits on the full ingredient list.