“Acid” may be the last thing you want to put on your parched face, but hyaluronic acid isn't the kind that burns (like alpha or beta hydroxy acids, which work to exfoliate your skin). H.A. is a substance that occurs naturally in your body—in your joints, eyes, and—yes—skin.
Why could hyaluronic acid dry skin out? If you're applying hyaluronic acid to a very dry face, it can actually end up drawing moisture from the deeper levels of your skin, which in turn will cause more harm than good and leave your complexion feeling tight and uncomfortable.
Hyaluronic acid
The ingredient itself isn't a direct trigger for sensitive skin, but some derms caution that it can inadvertently contribute to irritation. “It allows increased penetration of other topical skin creams, and this increased absorption may lead to increased irritancy in sensitive skin types,” says Palm.
Used as a topical skincare ingredient, hyaluronic acid is also well tolerated. Used as a dermal filler, hyaluronic acid may cause certain side effects, including pain, bruising, itching, redness and swelling.
Does Hyaluronic Acid Cause Irritation in Skincare? In some cases, yes, HA can cause irritation to the skin. It depends on three main factors: the sensitivity of your skin, application, and the type of HA you use.
When taken by mouth: Hyaluronic acid is likely safe when used appropriately. Allergic reactions might occur but are rare. When applied to the skin: Hyaluronic acid is likely safe when used appropriately. Allergic reactions might occur but are rare.
According to Dr. Alexis Stephens, the consulting dermatologist for Urban Skin Rx, a stinging sensation is most likely the result of a compromised skin barrier. Your face might have become sensitized, which is often the result of overusing harsh products (like chemical peels and acids or retinoids).
In fact, excessive use of humectants, like hyaluronic acid, can worsen dry skin conditions. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) explains that, when your skin becomes dry, it actually produces more oil, which can lead to breakouts.
Hyaluronic acid helps wounds heal faster by regulating inflammation levels and signaling the body to build more blood vessels in the damaged area ( 13 , 14 ). Applying it to skin wounds has been shown to reduce the size of wounds and decrease pain faster than a placebo or no treatment at all ( 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ).
Hyaluronic acid can work for people with any skin type — even those who have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts. It's also safe to apply the acid to your skin if you're pregnant or nursing.
“Hyaluronic acid plays well with most ingredients, while caution must be taken when using retinol in combination with alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, and some types of vitamin C.” Linkner echoes the tip about avoiding vitamin C.
According to the experts, the hero ingredient actually needs to be applied to damp skin in order to work. In fact, applying it to a dry face can have the opposite effect of what is intended, and actually leave skin more dehydrated. "Hyaluronic acid is a moisture magnet," says Allies of Skin founder Nicolas Travis.
According to Dr Alexis Stephens, the consulting dermatologist for Urban Skin Rx, a stinging sensation is most likely the result of a compromised skin barrier. Your face might have become sensitised, which is often the result of overusing harsh products (like chemical peels and acids or retinoids).
Your skin is burning or stinging after application
If your face feels hot and tingly after applying your moisturiser, there's a good chance that it's too strong for your skin. Sensitive skins in particular are at risk of suffering from this, so choose your moisturiser with care.
Flushed skin is a common physical response to anxiety, stress, embarrassment, anger, or another extreme emotional state. Facial flushing is usually more of a social worry than a medical concern. However, flushing can result from an underlying medical issue, such as Cushing syndrome or a niacin overdose.
Skin purging typically looks like tiny red bumps on the skin that are painful to touch. They are often accompanied by whiteheads or blackheads. It can also cause your skin to become flaky. The flare ups caused by purging have a shorter lifespan than a breakout.
Hyaluronic acid will draw moisture from wherever it can find it to hydrate the surface of your face, including the deeper layers of your skin if there is no humidity in the air." Which is to say, too much hyaluronic acid can leave skin thirstier, and dehydration lines more prominent.
Yup! "Hyaluronic acid is safe and beneficial to use everyday for maintaining skin hydration," says Dr. Russak. You just need to make sure you're applying it correctly.
Hyaluronic acid, or HA, is a known presence in pancreatic tumors, but a new study from researchers at the University of Michigan Health Rogel Cancer Center shows that hyaluronic acid also acts as food to the cancer cells.
“When skin burns, it's a pH issue,” explains Dr Marmur. “Skin is naturally acidic, so if a moisturizer stings, it has thrown the pH balance off, which is a sign it's not compatible.”
Skin care should not sting, tingle, or burn on a daily basis. If it does, you'll get redness, peeling, and flaking. “Those are signs of chronic inflammation,” says Karyn Grossman, MD, a dermatologist who practices in New York and Santa Monica.
However, she adds, any effects you see from using topical hyaluronic acid will be temporary and may even wear off by the end of the day. So if you like the way it makes you look, be prepared to use it every day. Hyaluronic acid products are great for pretty much every skin type, Dr.
As long as you have the serum sandwiched between slightly damp skin and a moisturizer, you're good to go. It really plumps up the skin and makes it look nice and moisturized, and stays moisturized, throughout the day. NT: You definitely want your skin to be wet or damp before applying a hyaluronic acid serum.