Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is skincare's most famous hydrator — a molecule your skin already makes, that holds many times its weight in water. Here's what it does, and how to get the best from it.
What it is
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring molecule found throughout the skin, where its job is to hold water and keep tissue plump and cushioned. In skincare, it's used as a humectant — an ingredient that draws moisture into the skin's surface layers.
It comes in different molecular sizes: larger molecules sit on the surface to smooth and hydrate, while smaller ones travel a little deeper. Many good formulas blend several sizes.
What it's designed to do
By binding water in the upper layers, HA is designed to leave skin looking smoother, plumper and more dewy, and to soften the look of fine lines that hydration can ease. It suits virtually every skin type, including oily and sensitive skin, because it hydrates without heaviness.
It's supportive rather than transformative — think of it as excellent daily hydration, not a treatment for deeper concerns.
How to use it
Apply it to slightly damp skin, then seal it in with a moisturiser on top — in very dry air, a humectant with nothing over it can occasionally draw moisture the wrong way. It layers happily under most other actives, morning or night.
As always, the right product for your skin is best chosen with guidance rather than by hype.
This page is general skincare education, not medical advice. What's right for your skin is assessed individually — patch-test new products and seek professional guidance.
Common questions
Is hyaluronic acid good for all skin types?
Generally yes — it hydrates without heaviness, so it suits oily, dry and sensitive skin alike. The formula and concentration still matter, which is where professional guidance helps.
Should I use hyaluronic acid on damp or dry skin?
Apply it to slightly damp skin and follow with a moisturiser to seal it in. In very dry environments, leaving a humectant unsealed can occasionally be dehydrating.
Does hyaluronic acid get rid of wrinkles?
It can soften the look of fine lines that hydration eases, and leaves skin plumper — but it's a hydrator, not a treatment for deeper lines or laxity.
The right formula for your skin
We stock Dr Spiller skincare and choose formulations — by name — to suit your skin and extend your results at home.
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Skincare chosen for your skin.
In a complimentary consultation and skin analysis we'll map a simple, effective routine — and what, if anything, is worth doing in clinic.