Hyaluronic acid benefits and how to use it correctly

Hyaluronic acid, or HA, is a naturally occurring molecule found throughout the human body, including in the skin, joints and eyes. In skincare, it is used as a humectant, which means it attracts and holds water. A single gram of hyaluronic acid can hold up to six litres of water in a laboratory setting. In skincare formulas, it delivers that hydration into the top layers of the skin.

Cosmetic grade HA is available at multiple molecular weights. High molecular weight sits on the surface and delivers immediate plumping. Low molecular weight penetrates deeper for longer-term hydration. The best serums layer several weights together for hydration at every level.

Immediate plumping. Fine dryness lines soften visibly within minutes of application.

Barrier support. Hydrated skin is less reactive and less prone to redness.

Better performance from every other active. Vitamin C, retinol and peptides all work better on well-hydrated skin.

Makeup wears better on hydrated skin, without settling into fine lines by mid-afternoon.

Hyaluronic acid must be applied to slightly damp skin. As a humectant, it draws water from the nearest source. If your skin is dry and the ambient air is dry, HA can pull water from deeper layers of the skin outward, effectively dehydrating the skin it was meant to hydrate.

Apply on damp skin, then follow with a moisturiser or facial oil to seal in the hydration. In dry climates or air-conditioned rooms, a light occlusive layer is non-negotiable.

Morning: Cleanse, Vitamin C, then HA on damp skin, then moisturiser and SPF.

Evening: Cleanse, HA on damp skin, then retinol on the nights you are using it, then moisturiser. On non-retinol nights, HA followed by moisturiser is enough.

Hydration is about water content in the skin. Moisturisation is about the barrier that keeps that water in. Humectants like HA and glycerin add water. Emollients like squalane smooth the skin. Occlusives like petrolatum and shea butter seal water in.

A well-designed routine addresses all three. HA on its own is powerful in humid conditions and less so in a dry Highveld winter without an occlusive layer on top.

Dehydrated skin feels tight but can still produce oil in the T-zone. Fine lines appear more visible in the afternoon than in the morning. Makeup clings to dry patches even though the skin feels greasy elsewhere.

Dry skin lacks oil and often lacks the ability to hold moisture. Dehydrated skin lacks water. Most people who assume they have oily skin are actually dehydrated, and hyaluronic acid combined with a light moisturiser fixes the problem within days.

Yes, morning and night. HA does not have a build-up phase and does not sensitise the skin to sunlight. It is one of the few actives with virtually no ceiling on frequency for most skin types.

At Evrglo we make skincare in small batches from Pretoria, South Africa. Every formula is built around three ideas: clinical actives at meaningful strengths, textures that feel considered on the skin, and rituals simple enough to actually keep. If hyaluronic acid is where you are starting, our three-serum ritual of Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol is designed to carry you from a first bottle to a lifelong routine without the shelf of noise.

Free delivery on orders over R1000, dispatched in 3 to 5 business days across South Africa. Refunds are honoured on unopened, sealed products so you can order with confidence.