Ingredient glossary

Hyaluronic acid

INCI: Sodium Hyaluronate · Also: HA

Worth paying for

Strong results with strong evidence behind them. This is one genuinely worth having in a formula.

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What it does

  • hydration

strong evidenceGood evidence that it increases skin hydration, especially in leave-on products, though long-term anti-aging benefits are modest.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • dry
  • dehydrated
  • all

Approach with care

No specific group flagged to avoid it.

  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskLow

Plays well with

  • occlusives
  • emollients

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.