WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?

There is a magical ingredient on our skincare horizons that is making glowing strides in hydration, complexion, and anti-aging. Enter: Hyaluronic Acid. This versatile molecule exists naturally in our skin to hold water and maintain balanced moisture. Similar to collagen, our bodies stop producing the substance after a certain age, so it becomes increasingly important to supplement the loss of hyaluronic acid by incorporating it into our daily skincare routines. To better understand all of the different ways that this magical substance can increase the appearance and overall health of our skin, we sat down with Mar McCown, Esthetician at Exhale NoMad, to hear what she has to say about H.A.!

What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is both a substance that our bodies produce naturally as well as an ingredient that is found in certain creams and serums. It’s main purpose in product form is to hydrate, plump, and sooth the skin while reducing fine lines. It holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, so it works to retain moisture on the surface of your skin and it also works to enhance the results of whatever you put on your skin afterwards. As we get older, our bodies stop producing and replenishing certain substances, like collagen and hyaluronic acid. That’s why it’s really important that we supplement these losses by adding them into our anti-aging routine.

How often should I use it?
You can use hyaluronic acid as often as it agrees with your skin. I like to suggest using it both in the morning and in the evening. Since it is not an acid, you don’t have to worry about it drying out your skin or causing any irritation. I like to suggest applying it before a good moisturizer or even mixing it with other serums for an extra boost of hydration. If you’re using a retinol before bed, try adding a bit of hyaluronic acid upon application. Not only will the hyaluronic acid counteract any potential dryness and tightness, but it will essentially boost the effectiveness of the products you’re pairing it with. 

Is there a specific time of year I should use it?
Winter is the best time of year to use hyaluronic acid. This is when our skin is at its driest, so instead of clogging up our skin with excess moisturizer, hyaluronic will work from the source to stimulate the natural production of hydration, so your skin can remain perfectly hydrated without becoming clogged or cx greasy.

How can I get Hyaluronic Acid at Exhale?
I love to recommend the iS Clinical Hydra Cool Serum or the Pestle and Mortar Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which can both be found at your local Exhale Wellbeing Boutique! Additionally, we use hyaluronic acid in most of our facials here at Exhale. We can also customize any facial to highlight a specific concern or a specific product you’re looking to try on your skin. So when you’re looking to introduce a new product to your skin, I like to suggest starting with a facial, so you can receive a full skin evaluation and work with your esthetician to develop a balanced plan that works perfectly for your specific skin-type!

Visit us at Exhale NoMad or book a facial at your nearest Exhale location.