The "It" Moisturizer Hyaluronic Acid: Why It Works (and When It Doesn’t)
When it comes to skincare ingredients that have reached superstar status, few have dominated the conversation like hyaluronic acid (HA). Found in everything from hair serums to cleansers to sheet masks, it’s often touted as the ultimate hydrator for all skin types. But is it really the miracle worker worth your dollars? Let's explore what HA is, where it shines, where it stumbles, and how to make it work smarter for your skin.
WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar molecule (technically a glycosaminoglycan) found throughout our bodies, particularly in our skin, eyes, and connective tissues. Its superpower? The ability to bind and retain water — up to 1,000 times its weight! In skincare, HA is prized for its immediate glassy appearance, and touted for contributing to plumper, smoother-looking skin. But we dive deeper to see does it deserve a coveted spot on your shelf?
MAIN BENEFITS OF HA:
Hydration Boost: HA acts like a magnet for moisture creating a dewy, refreshed appearance. It’s particularly helpful for counteracting the daily moisture loss and elasticity loss of the skin. Results tested were for different Molecular Weight in kDa.
Supports Skin Barrier Function: By replenishing hydration, HA helps reinforce the skin’s protective barrier especially when naturally triggered for increase production within the skin.
Temporary Plumping Effect: Its water-holding ability gives the skin a fuller, firmer look temporarily — making fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable.
HOW TO AVOID HA PITFALLS:
Molecular Size Matters: Not all HA is created equal. High molecular weight HA sits on top of the skin rather than penetrating deeply. While it offers surface hydration, it can sometimes leave a sticky feel without improving deeper hydration. Low molecular weight HA penetrates better but can, paradoxically, trigger irritation in very sensitive individuals (since enzymes can view HA fragments as skin intruders).
Dehydrating in Dry Climates: Without enough ambient moisture in the air, HA can pull water out of your skin if a moisturizer isn't layered on top. Think of it as a double-edged sword if you're living in a desert climate or indoors with heavy air conditioning.
Overreliance: Relying solely on HA might mask the need for richer lipids, antioxidants, or barrier-repairing ingredients that support long-term skin health.
HOW DEW ACTS AS THE MOISTURIZING OVERACHIEVER
Moisture That Stays Put: While HA can evaporate without proper sealing, DEW MIGHTY’s solid serums deliver moisture-locking ingredients that seals the barrier while also boosting NMF’s for less water loss over time.
Lipid-Rich, Not Water-Dependent: Our formulas are crafted without added water — instead, they rely on plant-powered ingredients that mimic your skin’s natural structure for hydration that doesn’t rely on climate or humidity.
Cleansing That Respects Hydration: Unlike many foaming or acid-based cleansers that strip the skin which disrupts moisture levels, LUCID Enzyme Cleansing Powder offers a water-activated, micro-exfoliating cleanse that preserves hydration while retaining moisture allowing the skin to soak in vitamin B3 and superfoods — no tight, dry feeling after use. We call it our ultimate step 1.
Phytoceramides > Temporary Plump: Rather than offering short-term plumping like HA, ingredients like OASIS and NOVA phytoceramides shield against flaking or dryness and act as a strong occlusive to give super saturated balmy moisture.
Antioxidant Protection Built In: DEW MIGHTY products combine hydration with potent antioxidants to further defend against environmental stressors that can degrade moisture levels and accelerate aging. Each of our products contribute much more than the immediate smoothing that is HA’s only claim to fame.
Zero Irritation Risk: HA (especially in low molecular weight form) can irritate very sensitive skin. DEW MIGHTY’s thoughtful formulas won’t cause irritation and even fights redness (especially BLOOM) for the best performance in hydration without risk of triggering eczema or rosacea.
While hyaluronic acid has earned its place in the skincare spotlight, DEW MIGHTY’s approach goes further — delivering hydration in a way that’s smarter, more sustainable, and more barrier-supportive.
As with any skincare ingredients or products, context matters — and your skin deserves thoughtful care, not just trendy singular ingredients. Please also do not fall for the $10 bag of low grade HA being sold on TikTok or Amazon. You’ll likely be throwing away those DIY kits and also have the headache of micro issues from that project. Just our 2 cents.
Great Additional Reads:
Papakonstantinou, E., Roth, M., & Karakiulakis, G. (2012). Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging.Dermato-endocrinology, 4(3), 253–268. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
Pavicic, T., Gauglitz, G. G., Lersch, P., Schwach-Abdellaoui, K., Malle, B., & Korting, H. C. (2011). Efficacy of cream-based novel formulations of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights in anti-wrinkle treatment. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 10(9), 990-1000 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/
Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10078143/
Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3583886/
