Ingredient library / Humectant
Hyaluronic acid.
Also on labels as: Sodium hyaluronate · Hyaluronan · HA
Quick answer
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant: it attracts and holds water, helping skin feel and look more hydrated and plump. The body makes it naturally, and cosmetic formulas often combine several molecular sizes. It suits almost every skin type and works best under a moisturiser that seals hydration in.
What it does
- Draws water into the upper layers of skin for a hydrated, plumper look
- Gives serums and tints a light, non-greasy slip
- Supports comfort in dry or dehydrated skin
Who it suits
All skin types, including oily skin that feels tight or dehydrated.
How to use it
- Apply to slightly damp skin after cleansing
- Follow with a moisturiser to reduce water loss, especially in dry air
- Use morning and evening
Take care
- Rarely irritating; reactions are more often to other ingredients in the formula
- In very dry environments, always layer a moisturiser on top
What it pairs with
Pairs with almost everything — niacinamide, ceramides, retinoids and vitamin C formulas often include it.
General information, not medical advice. For a skin condition, pregnancy or persistent irritation, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist.
In the catalogue
Products listing hyaluronic acid.
The Ordinary · Skin prep
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)
A straightforward prep layer when makeup needs hydration beneath it without a heavy cream texture.
CeraVe · Skin prep
Hydrating Facial Cleanser
The cleanse step under Couture glass skin — removes the day without stripping the barrier the camera needs to read as light, not chalk.
CeraVe · Skin prep
Moisturising Lotion
The lightweight moisture layer under Couture glass skin when cream weight would dull light on camera.
COSRX · Skin prep
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Lightweight barrier hydration under Couture glass skin when the face needs slip, not weight.
Milk Makeup · Complexion
Hydro Grip Gel Concealer
A concealer stick for readers who prefer targeted coverage and a dewy finish.
ILIA · Complexion
Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
Skin-first tint for couture glass reads when full foundation is too much.
Round Lab · SPF
Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
The moisturising cream in the Korean SPF edit: one comfortable layer between skincare and a sheer base.
SKIN1004 · SPF
Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
A serum-weight protect step with a dewy surface for base to sit on — sun protection that should not show up in the photograph.
Biodance · Skin prep
Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
A longer mask ritual for readers who enjoy that format. A familiar moisturiser is the simpler choice when time is short.
Read further
Sources.
Hyaluronic acid, answered
Is hyaluronic acid good for oily skin?
- Yes. It hydrates without oil, so it suits oily and combination skin that still feels dehydrated.
Does hyaluronic acid need a moisturiser on top?
- It helps. Hyaluronic acid attracts water; a moisturiser helps keep that water in the skin, particularly in dry or heated air.
What is sodium hyaluronate?
- The salt form of hyaluronic acid, commonly used in skincare. On labels it does the same job.