Have you ever looked in the mirror and seen a few breakouts that simply wonโt go away? You could wonder whatโs causing them and if itโs anything as basic as your skincare regimen.
Hyaluronic acid is a popular ingredient in skincare products, and it may be an effectiveโand gentleโway to keep skin hydrated for many individuals. But can hyaluronic acid cause acne? Itโs a legitimate concern for everyone who wants to maintain their skin clean.
Here are 7 things you must know to answer this question and at the end, some valuable tips on how to use hyaluronic acid are also waiting for you. letโs go!
1. What Exactly Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Youโve probably heard of hyaluronic acid (also known as hyaluronan or hyaluronate), a popular important component in many skincare products. It has been shown to keep skin moisturized, bouncy, and healthy-looking. Can it, however, cause acne? In a nutshell, it canโt. But, if not used properly, it may have the opposite effect.
To understand why, we must first get to know hyaluronic acid (HA) better and learn how it works. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant (a substance that retains moisture). This acid is a naturally occurring chemical in our bodies that helps to get hydrated skin. It also helps to produce collagen: a structural protein that keeps the skin taut and toned.
1.1 Hyaluronic Acid Is a Substance Found Naturally In Our Bodies
A hyaluronic acid is a group of โsugar molecules called polysaccharidesโ. The human body generates it, thereby it is naturally present in us. It aids in the lubrication of our tissues. Several studies have shown that hyaluronic acid is present throughout the body, particularly in the eyes, connective tissues, and skin.
It is a gel-like fluid whose main function is to retain water and aid in the maintenance of skin health, wound healing, bone strength, and a variety of other body systems.
Our bodyโs hyaluronic acid stores deplete over time. One cause is age. According to studies, however, environmental variables such as smoking and air pollution can hasten this process.
Many individuals take it as a supplement, and it is now widely used as a topical serum that works as a hydrating skincare ingredient. Itโs also used to make eye drops and injections.
2. Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
2.1 Skin Barrier Protection and Enhancement
The primary role of our skin is to shield our bodies from the outside environment. Yet, our skin also defends the body from harmful substances we are exposed to regularly. The epidermis is the top layer of skin, it receives the full force of external injury (by toxins).
As we become older, โthe lipid barrier (fatty acids that trap water and prevent irritants from penetrating the skin)โ in the epidermis gradually decreases. Anything from UV radiation to pollution to lifestyle choices (like drinking) causes harm. This damage furthermore causes fine lines and wrinkles, as well as deep pigmentation and drier skin.
Itโs not only an issue of beauty. Dry skin is harmful. Dr Marchbein says, โPoorly hydrated skin is unable to maintain an appropriately intact skin barrier, leaving the skin more vulnerable to damage from external and environmental sources,โ. When the skin barrier is compromised, germs can enter and cause illness.
Hyaluronic Acid boosts the skinโs natural barriers and helps to fight against skin barrier dysfunction, by allowing moisture to be locked in for an even more powerful moisturizing impact. Over time, this can help reduce the degeneration of the lipid barrier while maintaining and strengthening it.
3.ย Hyaluronic Acid the Humectant in Skincare
It hydrates skin by retaining 1000x its weight in water, which means it pulls moisture into the skin with it when applied and absorbed. Its capacity to profoundly hydrate skin helps to improve the natural moisture level of the skin, avoiding dryness and keeping skin healthy and bright. โ Humectants in skincare products comprise glycerin, sorbitol (sugar alcohol), butylene glycol, hexylene, and, ย obviously, hyaluronic acidโ.
3.1 Helping In Maintaining the Elasticity of Skin Cells
Elastin in the skin degrades as we age, and the skin loses its flexibility and bounce. While hyaluronic acid will not replace elastin, using hyaluronic acid serum or supplements will assist with the appearance of skin tightness. Hyaluronic acid tightens the overall skin by filling the skin with moisture. It aids in the firming of facial features for a more youthful appearance.
Perhaps most important of all, though, is that Hyaluronic Acid does not cause acne โ instead, its ability to deeply moisturize can work against breakouts by helping reduce inflammation.
3.2 It Doesnโt Cause Clogged Pores
With all the terror around acne you might wonder โIs topical hyaluronic acid comedogenicโ? Acne & breakouts can occur when germs become trapped inside closed pores. Hyaluronic acid is non-comedogenic (it does not clog pores), but you should be careful when selecting a hyaluronic acid serum that the ingredient list does not contain any unexpected pore-clogging substances.
3.3 It is a Part of The anti-ageing Skincare Routine
With peptides and Retinol, hyaluronic acid products increase skin cell turnover and to make the skin plump and smooth, especially for people with dry skin as it increases skin hydration which was disrupted by retinol.
3.4 All Skin Types Can Use Hyaluronic Acid Serums
The great news is hyaluronic acid can benefit people of all skin types, even those with sensitive skin or prone to breakouts. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should avoid applying acid to your skin.
4. Is Hyaluronic Acid Safe for the Skin?
The great news is that hyaluronic acid is typically safe for use on the skin. Itโs found in a variety of skincare products, so your skin may already be exposed to trace levels of hyaluronic acid. Nevertheless, any substance, including hyaluronic acid, might have negative effects.
4.1 Skin Irritation
As with any skin product, keep an eye out for signs of adverse reaction, such as redness and irritation. If you observe any changes in your skin that worry you after taking hyaluronic acid, discontinue use immediately and seek medical guidance as needed.
4.2 Acne Flair Up
Although its usage as a moisturizer prevents breakouts in those with normal skin, there have been instances of some persons developing acne after using hyaluronic acid. This is more probable if you have sensitive skin or use too much of the product; start with tiny quantities and gradually increase the amount you use as necessary.
Yet, when used correctly, hyaluronic acid is harmless for the skin, and being one of the hydrating skincare ingredients it can even help minimize the appearance of acne scars and fine lines and wrinkles! Just make sure to properly follow the package directions and monitor your body for any reactions.
5. Can Hyaluronic Acid Cause Acne?
You may be wondering if hyaluronic acid may cause acne. No, it has the opposite effect. But, it can be used in conjunction with other ingredients that cause acne, so check your product label for any suspected pore-clogging chemicals.
In your skincare routine, applying a hyaluronic acid-containing product can help lessen the look of your acne, and if taken as a supplement, it can help keep your skin moisturized and prevent breakouts. But, if you have naturally dry skin or seborrheic dermatitis, this acid can also help treat these diseases.
5.1 Can Hyaluronic Acid Clog Pores?
Hyaluronic acid like any other acid might clog pores when you have a compromised skin barrier. Quite unlikely but it might cause acne if you use it on dry skin for example if you are a person who lives in a dry climate and you use hyaluronic acid on DRY skin then my friend, hyaluronic acid will absorb the moisture from your skin itself as it is the nearest source of moisture for it. It holds water/moisture and not creates it.
So to not let it draw moisture out from your skin, you need to use it on damp skin to let it do its job efficiently.
5.2 Is Hyaluronic Acid Effective for Acne Prone Skin?
Every skin type requires hydration. It is a fact that skipping your moisturizer can make your acne worse. Hyaluronic Acid is also known for its skin-calming abilities and it also hydrates without clogging pores.
6. How to Use Hyaluronic Acid Safely on Skin?
If youโre thinking about putting hyaluronic acid on your skin, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind to avoid getting acne.
First up, only take up products that include hyaluronic acid as an ingredient rather than as the major component. You should also look for nourishing and soothing substances like aloe vera, vitamin E, and tea tree oil in the product or serum. You also need a specific ingredient that targets acne as Hyaluronic Acid doesnโt treat acne but it maintains overall skin health.
6.1 Proper Exfoliation
The skin should be thoroughly exfoliated to enjoy the benefits of applied skincare because pollution and dead skin cells clog pores and if your favourite skincare serums and creams are not given a clean canvas, they may clog your pores more, making acne worse and even causing infections.
You should use a Salicylic Acid-based serum, not more than twice a week (for beginners) to unclog your pores, especially if you have oily skin. It controls excess sebum production
Chemical exfoliants must be used on all skin types. There are chemical exfoliants designed specifically for each skin type. It should be used once a week. Exfoliating acids comprise AHAs (Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, etc) and BHAs (Popular: Salicylic Acid).
After exfoliation, donโt use any active ingredient but you can use a hyaluronic acid product to soothe your skin.
6.2 Treat Acne with The Right Products
When you suffer from acne-prone skin then consulting a Doctor is advised. Under the doctorโs supervision, you can use Benzoyl Peroxide โas it is an ingredient in topical therapy for acne vulgarisโ, it kills acne-causing bacteria. Use it along with topical Hyaluronic acid as Hyaluronic acid help improve skin texture by treating dehydrated skin and making skin smooth thereby helping with acne scarring.
Before using any active ingredient or chemical exfoliant make sure to do a patch test and avoid using the product if any irritation occurs.
6.3 Use Hyaluronic Acid on Damp Skin
Always make sure to apply hyaluronic acid on damp skin. Spray some water on your face with a spray bottle to activate this skincare miracle. Use a moisturizing face spray like rose water or toner on your skin before applying a hyaluronic acid serum for the best effects. It is also suggested that this be used in a pressing and patting motion rather than spreading and rubbing into the skin.
Do remember that hyaluronic acid should be used along with a moisturizer. When used with a nourishing moisturizer, it extracts all the goodness from your moisturizer and lets you get the most out of your favourite products.
7. Tips to Help You Obtain the Best Results with Hyaluronic Acid
7.1 Take Things a Little Slow
Start with a low concentration of hyaluronic acid and observe the changes you see in your skin and then gradually increase otherwise it might cause irritation or even purging. A maximum of 2% hyaluronic acid is more than enough in most cases.
7.2 Be Gentle with Your Skin and Use Non-Comedogenic Products
Do not scrub harshly or use harsh exfoliators and mindfully choose your skincare products and watch out for comedogenic ingredients.
7.3 Must Include Sun Protection
SPF 30+ at least daily protects skin from sun damage and maintains a healthy skin barrier.
Conclusion
All in all, hyaluronic acid may contribute to acne outbreaks, particularly if you already have sensitive or acne-prone skin. This does not, however, mean that you should avoid taking hyaluronic acid entirely but stop its usage if irritation persists otherwise it might harm your skin barrier.
By incorporating the product into your regimen in small yet sufficient amounts, you may determine if it is accepted by your skin and, if so, incorporate it into your skincare routine. If it appears to trigger breakouts, stop using it and look for other skincare products that might provide similar advantages.
It is essential to bear in mind that everyoneโs skin is different and what works for one person may be a triggering agent for someone else. So be patient and try, test, and discover what works best for you.
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Last Updated on by Himani Rawat
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