Skincare glossary
Hyaluronic acid
A humectant, not an exfoliating acid, despite the name.
- Who it suits
- Dehydrated skin that needs a hydration boost.
Why is hyaluronic acid used?
It's there to pull water into your skin and keep it there, making the product feel more hydrating on application.
Worth knowing
A higher percentage isn't automatically better. Pair it with ingredients that lock moisture in, or it can evaporate and leave skin drier.
Products with hyaluronic acid
Creamy rice cleanserTatcha
£££The Rice Wash
A soft cream cleanser that removes daily buildup while leaving skin hydrated and comfortable
Rich hydrationTatcha
£££The Dewy Skin Cream
A rich moisturiser designed to hydrate, plump and soften dry skin with a dewy finish
Lightweight milk moisturiserTatcha
£££Dewy Milk Moisturiser
A lightweight milky moisturiser that delivers hydration without a heavy or greasy finish
Brightening night creamCaudalie
£££Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Refillable Night Cream
Night cream combining hydration and gentle exfoliation
Peptide moisturiserNATURIUM
££Multi-peptide Moisturizer
Peptide moisturiser for hydration and firmness
Simple daily moisturiserThe Ordinary
£Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Simple affordable moisturiser for daily hydration
Hydrating creamLANEIGE
£££Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Acid Cream
Hydrating cream for dry, dehydrated skin
Daily moistureMedik8
£££Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream
Daily moisturiser for sustained hydration
Articles mentioning hyaluronic acid
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Is K-Beauty Actually Better? Korean Skincare Explained.
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Freddie’s edit
The Skincare I’ll Be Buying This Autumn - And Why (as a former Beauty Trends Editor)
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Skin, explained
Pregnancy & Postpartum Skincare: What You Need to Know
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Ingredient deep dive
The 6 Must-Have Ingredients Behind Every Effective Skincare Routine
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Recommendations
Former Beauty Trend Editor's Top-Rated Sheet Masks
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Skin, explained
The Wedding-Ready Skincare Guide
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