Hyaluronic Acid, also commonly referred to as HA, has been touted in the beauty space as the miracle ingredient for deep hydration and anti-aging. It has been used in skincare formulations and dermal fillers like Restylane for decades now. I first learned about his natural humectant and its unparalleled ability to “bind over 1,000 times its weight in water” through K-Beauty products way back in 2015. Skincare products made in Korea were increasingly gaining traction during that time for its efficacy, safety, and use of natural ingredients.
I remember trying Laneige’s Water Sleeping Mask for the first time, and being blown away by the instant results–brighter, smoother, and moisturized skin. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and squalene, this lightweight overnight formula became a go-to especially after long haul flights or when traveling to destinations with cooler climates. HA has since been a staple in the skincare shelf. As I began to pay closer attention to the ingredients I put on my skin, it became clear to me that not all hyaluronic masks, serums, or gels are created equal.
The efficacy of hyaluronic acid is determined by the size of molecules, production process, as well as source. When my facialist declared that my skin was alarmingly dehydrated a few weeks ago, I immediately went on a mad chase for treatments and products that utilize only the most reliable and efficacious hyaluronic formulations. She also advised, “Apply your HA serums on damp skin to seal in the moisture.”
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ($7.62)
Skincare enthusiasts trace the popularity of hyaluronic acid to The Ordinary’s hero product, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. The skincare brand, known for its ingredient-led approach and accessible price points, have been constantly mentioned as a trailblazer in popularizing this hero ingredient in the mainstream market. Just this year, the brand reformulated its most iconic serum, resulting in a product that feels lighter on skin without compromising high concentrates of HA.
The 2.0 version from The Ordinary uses five forms of hyaluronic acid. It is also infused with Ceramides, which protects the skin barrier and locks in moisture. Pro-vitamins B5 or Panthenol helps to improve moisture retention and overall skin radiance.
BYNACHT Supercharged Glass Skin Serum ($312)
This hardworking serum from BYNACHT boasts “the world’s most innovative combination of 8 different hyaluronic acids: high and low molecular, medium-chain, liposomal and cross linked types.” It is also combined with 13 types of extracts that help refine appearance of pores, boost cell metabolism, firm, lift, plump and boost skin elasticity.
For best results, pair with the Supercharged Glass Skin Cream. It is formulated to help repair skin barrier, improve skin tone and texture. This smooth, light-as-cloud cream also lends countless anti-aging benefits. A combination of 8 types of hyaluronic and BYNACHT’s Hydrotranslucent Complex make this product a skin saver, especially during dry, winter months.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum ($325/30ml)
I first experienced Dr. Barbara Sturm’s unique approach to skincare and hydration when I booked a 90-minute Glow Facial at Hong Kong’s Rosewood Hotel Asaya Spa. Dewy, radiant skin post-facial confirmed that no amount of complex formulations can compare to pure HA–done in the right dose, and molecular weight. Dr. Barbara Sturm’s skincare philosophy is deeply anchored on hydration. This is why the brand’s iconic Hyaluronic Serum is meticulously “designed to provide skin with optimal moisture for a healthy, glowing complexion.”
This well-loved hydrating formula consists of three molecular weights that hydrate the surface and deeper layers of the epidermis. The team explains: “The low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid penetrates deeper skin layers, leaving skin feeling firmer, refreshed and visibly more radiant for the long term. High weight Hyaluronic Molecules provide immediate intensive hydration to the surface layers of the skin.” Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Hyaluronic Serum is also infused with Purslane Extract, an anti-aging ingredient that helps to improve skin texture, brighten, and rejuvenate.
Whenever I’m on rotation with my Dr. Barbara Sturm skincare routine, I layer the Hyaluronic Serum with The Better B Niacinamide Serum and Glow Drops under the Face Cream for radiant, moisturized, dewy skin.
EXO-H Serum Hyaluronic Acid Treatment ($224)
Exoceuticals has been elevating the skincare game with formulations that are infused with the proprietary eXo3 exosomes. The EXO-H Serum Hyaluronic Acid Treatment is made up of seven molecular weights of HA. The low molecular HA penetrates the epidermis and dermis for deep skin restoration. Mid-weight molecules are responsible for hydrating the stratum corneum. The high and ultra high molecules create a protective barrier on skin’s surface while nourishing the comeum.
The team at Exoceuticals also writes: “Our innovative formulations leverage exclusive eXo3 and aloe3 exosomes, which facilitate the production of elastin, collagen, and other components essential for smooth and radiant looking skin."
Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Intense
An oxygen facial at Mello Spa introduced me to professional grade, B-Corp certified skincare brand, Medik8. Evidence-based skincare solutions from the British-born label boast “the highest quality formulas for truly unmatched results.” Medik8’s cult following faithfully subscribes to its proprietary CSA Philosophy–a simple yet efficacious combination of high performance Vitamin C Serum, Sunscreen, and Vitamin A (retinol). But unknown to most, the brand’s Hydr8 B5 Intense is a best kept beauty secret.
This supercharged version of the original Hydr8 B5 combines Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid with superfood antioxidants like Saskatoon Berry (for visible plumpness) and soy extract (which helps to stimulate natural production of collagen and hyaluronic acid). Natural Moisturising Factors (NMF) optimizes skin hydration and the body’s natural ability to maintain hyaluronic levels. Vitamin B5, “helps skin to retain moisture, while supporting the regeneration of skin cells for visibly plumper skin. I love the light, fast-absorbing consistency of Medik8’s Hydr8 B5 Intense, which is ideal to use all seasons of the year. Medik8 Is my go-to serum when I need to rescue skin from stress and dehydration brought about by travel.
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