If you're looking to rejuvenate wrinkled or dry skin, your Dermatologist may recommend taking some form of hyaluronic acid. It's a type of sugar found naturally in the body that does all kinds of good things, like helping wounds heal and tissues regenerate.
But of all the ways hyaluronic acid benefits the body, one of the most remarkable—at least for skin care enthusiasts—is its ability to seemingly turn back time. In addition to restoring skin moisture and volume, hyaluronic acid can help stimulate the production of collagen, the skin-firming protein that reduces as people age. By jumpstarting the body's natural collagen-making processes, hyaluronic acid helps reduce the appearance of aging by keeping skin fuller and more supple.
If that piques your interest, you're not alone: many people use hyaluronic acid on a treatment basis or for everyday skin care. So, how do you get your hands on the stuff—and which form is best?
3 Hyaluronic Acid Treatments to Consider
Depending on your Derm's recommendations and your preferences, you may have some options when it comes to adding to your skin's natural supply of hyaluronic acid.
Oral Suplements
The first is to take hyaluronic acid supplements by mouth, as this has been shown to improve the skin's appearance. However, this can take up to 30 days or more to reflect a change, so it's not for anyone looking for immediate results.
Fillers
For faster results, you might consider hyaluronic acid fillers. These are in-office procedures administered by Dermatologists that involve injecting hyaluronic acid into certain areas of the body—like the hands, lips, or face—for an instant filling effect. According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, these injections are highly safe when done by experienced professionals. Results last from four months to a year.
Topical Treatments
Not into needles? That's okay. Dermatologists also recommend ointments and creams that contain hyaluronic acid for a similar skin-filling result. For example, EltaMD Renew Eye Gel offers targeted hyaluronic acid benefits in an everyday serum for the eyes, a common problem area for sagging and wrinkles. Further, sunscreens can also contain hyaluronic acid for sun protection that doubles as a skin booster.
Hyaluronic Acid for Skin Health: Who Benefits the Most?
Nearly anyone with aging or dry skin may benefit from hyaluronic acid, but treatments aren't ideal for everyone. Those with certain allergies or people who take blood-thinning medications may be advised to steer clear of hyaluronic acid injections, for example. People with more advanced signs of aging may also want to talk to their Dermatologist about alternatives, given that hyaluronic acid may not offer the kind of dramatic changes needed for deeper wrinkles and sagging.
Your doctor can help you determine whether you're a match for these or other treatments based on your medical history, personal preferences, and goals for short- and long-term skin appearance. If you haven't seen a Dermatologist recently, or ever, go ahead and find one you like and schedule an initial visit. They can be a great resource moving forward to help you navigate any and all skin concerns.
Aside from special cases involving allergies or medical history, hyaluronic acid is a common treatment that's considered safe and effective in yielding a noticeable difference in skin appearance. If you're curious about it in any form, ask your Dermatologist whether hyaluronic acid could be right for you—you might be surprised how big of a change it makes on your overall skin health.
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