It’s an ingredient that’s been getting a lot of buzz lately, but what exactly is hyaluronic acid (HA), and how does it affect your skin?

In short, it’s nature’s “moisture magnet.” More specifically, it’s a molecule found naturally in your body—in the skin, connective tissues, and eyes. It’s clear and gel-like, with the primary function of retaining water and keeping tissues hydrated. While the word “acid” might sound scary and harsh, the reality is quite the opposite. It’s actually super-soothing and ultra-hydrating.

Hyaluronic acid truly is a powerhouse ingredient for moisture. Each HA molecule can hold up to 1,000X its own weight in moisture, making it the perfect vehicle for hydrated, glowing skin.

We at Estée Lauder were so impressed by the power of this innovative ingredient that we became the first beauty brand to incorporate it into our products. It’s also important to remember that not all HAs are created equal. We incorporate multiple types of HAs into our formulas and have patent-pending technology to form a breathable matrix that not only moisturizes your skin, but also works as a shock absorber.

HA also plays well with many other ingredients, bringing a boost of added moisture to your favorite formulas. By adding beauty products that include hyaluronic acid to your skincare regimen, you’ll experience skin that feels plumper, moisturized and softened.

The nourishing benefits of HA are endless, as many find it helps remedy dry skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. By adding serums with hyaluronic acid to your skincare regimen, you too can promote healthier-looking, more supple skin. Even better, use makeup products with hyaluronic acid for an extra boost of hydration.