Here’s Why You Need to Add a Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer to Your Skin Care Routine

Hya-what, you ask? While the words “hyaluronic acid” may not roll off the tongue, it’s an ingredient you should get to know if you’re looking for that ever-elusive glowy skin. Hyaluronic acid (or HA, as the beauty pros like to call it) is a substance that occurs naturally in the skin, and it’s a not-so-secret skin care weapon that can keep skin looking plump and feeling quenched.

Not to be confused with exfoliating acids like salicylic or glycolic, hyaluronic acid works to cushion and lubricate our joints, nerves, skin, hair and eyes, says Dr. Benjamin Barankin, a Toronto dermatologist and medical director of Toronto Dermatology Centre. “About 50 percent of the body’s hyaluronic acid supply is found in our skin, where it helps to keep the skin soft and supple,” he says.

But (spoiler alert) that’s not always the case.

“Unfortunately, our body’s production of hyaluronic acid declines with age,” Barankin says. As the skin loses its ability to retain water, signs of aging such as dryness, lines and sagging creep in. Thankfully, there’s no need to start endlessly chugging H₂O when you can help offset the effects of water loss with the simple addition of a hyaluronic acid moisturizer, such L’Oréal Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care Moisturizer for Normal Skin, to your skin care routine.

“When used in products, HA binds water and results in less wrinkled-looking skin,” says Barankin. “It has excellent hydrating properties, attracting and retaining more than 1,000 times its weight in water to reduce the look of [surface] wrinkles and crepey skin.” While it’s never too late to start reaping the benefits of a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, Barankin suggests making one part of your beauty regimen after age 25.

Want something that layers well under makeup? L’Oréal Hydra Genius fits the bill. It’s loaded with three different kinds of hyaluronic acid along with aloe water to keep skin hydrated and looking radiant all day long. And it’s available for normal, oily and extra dry skin types.

To apply, “dab each area of the face with product, then gently rub in circles,” recommends Barankin, adding, “Don’t forget the eyelids.” If you’re particularly dry, spend lots of time in the water or have extensive sun damage, it’s a good idea to use it both morning and night.

This post is sponsored by L’Oréal.