You’ve probably been hearing about hyaluronic acid for what seems like forever. A hot favourite in Skincare, it is credited for being the one must-have ingredient within any Skincare routine to encourage visibly plump skin.
But lately, I’ve noticed the buzz around hyaluronic acid in Haircare – and Cosmetics - is only getting louder. And it’s easy to see why this key hydrating ingredient has earned its best-seller status across Shampoo, Conditioner, Treatments, Skin Primers, Foundations and beyond.
By Olivia, Salon Stylist, Doncaster
Why is hydration important?
Anyone who has dry skin knows that when it comes to hydration in Skincare, it’s not just about function, it’s about comfort. This is because proper skin hydration supports the skin barrier, improving elasticity and creating a comfortable feeling on the complexion that also reduces the appearance of age-related fine lines.
Hair follows the same hydration needs as skin with dehydrated hair feeling rough and brittle, looking dull and breaking easily. You know when your hair is dehydrated, as frizz appears and colour can also fade. The big culprits? Sun damage, chemical treatments and going too long between trims.
So, how does hyaluronic acid help in Skincare?
Hyaluronic acid (also known as hyaluronan) is a naturally occurring molecule found in our connective tissue, responsible for binding water and keeping skin looking plump. Over time, natural levels decline, contributing to dryness, loss of firmness, and visible fine lines.
The best form of hyaluronic acid serum—often containing both high molecular weight hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate—acts as a powerful humectant, drawing water into the skin or hair and supporting long-term hydration.
And it’s not just consumers that love it. Dermatology research consistently supports the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid, especially when used correctly, long-term.
The Do’s of hyaluronic acid in Skincare.
Do: Apply Hyaluronic acid Serum to damp skin, then seal with a moisturizing cream or lotion.
Do: Pair it with ceramides, glycerine, or niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier.
Do: Use morning and night, across all skin types—including sensitive skin.
So, how does hyaluronic acid help in Haircare?
Hydrating Shampoos, Conditioners, and Treatment Masks work by restoring moisture to the hair shaft and supporting the scalp environment—essential for healthy growth. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Glycerine, Ceramides, and Antioxidant blends help counteract dry skin on the scalp and environmental stressors.
Within Haircare, hyaluronic acid has been proven to boost softness and shine, reduce frizz and mechanical damage as well as support elasticity so that hair bends and moves, rather than snapping and breaking.
The Do’s of Hyaluronic acid in Haircare.
Do: Cleanse gently with a hydrating cleanser (yes, your Shampoo is a cleanser)!
Do: Follow with a moisture-rich Mask and avoid over-washing—which is one of the biggest causes of chronic dryness.
Do: Look for formulas combined with, or apply after, Oils like argan or jojoba to lock in moisture.
So, how does hyaluronic acid help in Cosmetics?
In cosmetics, hydration is the difference between makeup that melts into the skin and makeup that sits on top of it.
The Do’s of Hyaluronic acid in Cosmetics:
Do: Choose a Hydrating Primer that create a smooth base underneath makeup, minimising texture and fine lines.
Do: Go with a Foundation containing hyaluronic acid as it will perform better on hydrated skin.
Do: Look for formulas containing hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or antioxidants—especially if you’re wearing makeup all day. When skin is properly hydrated, makeup wears longer, creases less, and looks more natural.
Our super-hydrating hyaluronic acid picks!
Skincare:
1. ANTIPODES Maya Hyaluronic 72-Hour Hydration Serum
2. Comfort Zone Hydramemory Rich Sorbet Cream
Haircare:
4. Kerastase Blond Absolu Serum
5. Juuce Hyaluronic Hydrate Shampoo
6. Eleven Australia Miracle Hair Treatment Conditioner
Cosmetics:
7. INIKA Organic Primer Pure Perfection
8. Nude by Nature Nude by Nature Nourishing Lip Oil
9. Nude by Nature Skin Radiance Foundation
Shop the best in Hyaluronic acid benefits at Hairhouse!