Decoding the Beauty Buzzwords: Hyaluronic Acid vs Sodium Hyaluronate
In the ever-evolving world of skincare, there's one ingredient that has taken the beauty industry by storm: hyaluronic acid. You may have seen it listed on the labels of your favourite serums, moisturizers, and masks, but what exactly is hyaluronic acid, and why is it hailed as a skincare superhero?
Hyaluronic Acid Unveiled: The Secret to Ageless Beauty
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, renowned for its ability to retain moisture. In skincare, it acts as a humectant, drawing water into the skin and helping to keep it hydrated, plump, and supple. This moisture-binding property makes it a go-to ingredient for addressing dryness, fine lines, and dullness, making it particularly beneficial for those of us with mature skin concerns.
Barrier Booster: Hyaluronic Acid's Role in Skin Health
But the benefits of hyaluronic acid extend beyond just hydration. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and integrity of the skin barrier. As we age, our skin's natural hyaluronic acid levels decline, leading to decreased moisture retention and elasticity. By incorporating hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine, you can help replenish these lost reserves, fortifying the skin barrier and promoting a more youthful complexion.
Now, you may have heard of another buzzworthy ingredient called sodium hyaluronate. So, what sets it apart from hyaluronic acid, and why might you choose one over the other?
Sodium Hyaluronate: Supercharged Hydration for Maximum Impact
Sodium hyaluronate is actually a salt derived from hyaluronic acid, with a smaller molecular size. This smaller size allows it to penetrate the skin more easily, delivering hydration to deeper layers and providing longer-lasting results. Essentially, sodium hyaluronate is the more bioavailable form of hyaluronic acid, making it an excellent choice for those seeking enhanced moisture retention and skin barrier support.
Choosing Your Hydration Hero: Hyaluronic Acid vs. Sodium Hyaluronate
When it comes down to it, both hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate offer incredible benefits for the skin, particularly for us folks over 40 who may be grappling with age-related concerns. Whether you opt for the classic hydrating prowess of hyaluronic acid or the advanced penetration of sodium hyaluronate, incorporating these ingredients into your skincare arsenal can help you achieve a smoother, firmer, and more radiant complexion.
Now... which would we choose?
As professionals, we are often asked which ingredients we think are important or optimal and why. In this case, we are going to have to go with sodium hyaluronate as it can hydrate more intensely and it doesn't pill on the skin, making it the perfect skin prep prior to makeup application.
Sexapeel Instant Exfoliation Spray, Intense Barrier Cream and Water Elixir all contain sodium hyaluronate