Skincare Ingredient
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Hyaluronic Acid
In Skincare: Is Hyaluronic Acid Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Hyaluronic acid effectively increases the skin's hydration levels.
- 02
Hyaluronic acid offers antioxidant protection to the skin.
- 03
Hyaluronic acid exhibits properties that can help soothe and calm the skin.
- 04
As a naturally occurring substance, hyaluronic acid is found within the skin.
Key Benefits
What Hyaluronic Acid does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Hyaluronic Acid
Role of Hyaluronic Acid
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
ANTISTATIC
Static EliminatorReduces static electricity and flyaway hair
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Antistatic agents neutralize electrostatic charges through cationic surfactants (quaternary ammonium compounds like behentrimonium chloride) or conductive polymers that increase surface conductivity to dissipate charge or attract moisture. The mechanism involves forming a conductive film on fiber surfaces, neutralizing charge buildup. Particularly effective on damaged hair with raised cuticles.
HUMECTANT
Moisture MagnetAttracts and retains moisture in skin and hair
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Humectant ingredients draw water from the environment and deeper skin layers through hygroscopic properties. Common humectants include glycerin, propylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, urea, and alpha-hydroxy acids. These contain multiple hydroxyl groups or other hydrophilic functional groups that form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. Mechanism involves attracting water to the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss, and increasing skin hydration.
MOISTURISING
Skin HydratorHydrates and softens skin by increasing water content
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Moisturizing ingredients increase skin hydration through humectants (attracting water), emollients (smoothing surface), and occlusives (preventing water loss). The mechanism involves enhancing water content in stratum corneum, improving barrier function, and maintaining skin suppleness. Includes ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and natural moisturizing factors (NMF components).
SKIN CONDITIONING
Skin EnhancerMaintains skin in good condition and improves its feel
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Skin conditioning ingredients enhance appearance, texture, and health of skin through various mechanisms. This broad category encompasses emollients, humectants, occlusives, and other agents that improve skin feel, appearance, and function. May work by moisturizing, smoothing, softening, or protecting skin. Effects include improved tactile properties, enhanced barrier function, and better overall skin condition.
Products
containing Hyaluronic Acid
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References
Scientific sources
Journal of Evidence-Based, Complementary and Alternative Medicine, October 2017, pages 816-823
Journal of Medicinal Food, October 2016, pages 1,172-1,179
Nutrition Journal, July 2013, ePublication
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011, issue 9, pages 990-1000
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, March 2009, pages 38-43
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hyaluronic Acid — common questions
What is Hyaluronic Acid in skincare?
Hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, and potassium hyaluronate are white powders. These ingredients are commonly used in cosmetic formulations for skincare products, lipsticks, and eye/facial makeup. They function primarily to add hydration and modify the texture of products.
What does Hyaluronic Acid do? / Functions of Hyaluronic Acid?
Common functions: ANTISTATIC, HUMECTANT, MOISTURISING, SKIN CONDITIONING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Hyaluronic Acid? / Is Hyaluronic Acid comedogenic?
Hyaluronic Acid has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.
Does it clog pores?
Hyaluronic Acid is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).
Is Hyaluronic Acid safe for skin?
Hyaluronic Acid has a safety rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Non-comedogenic and generally non-irritating; CIR and clinical use support high safety—rare irritation possible depending on formulation/preservatives. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Pane
Is Hyaluronic Acid good for sensitive skin?
Hyaluronic Acid has an irritancy rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Hyaluronic Acid in skincare?
Known considerations: Non-comedogenic and generally non-irritating; CIR and clinical use support high safety—rare irritation possible depending on formulation/preservatives. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that hyaluronic acid is safe for use in cosmetics, with limited safety data available on long-term effects at high concentrations.