If you have acne-prone skin, you most likely have gone through countless skincare products that don’t work, so it can feel like an endless cycle of thinking you found the right product, only for it to trigger more breakouts and cause your skin to feel dry, tight, and irritated. When you’re looking for skincare products, you probably don’t think that hydrating ingredients are what you should use on acne-prone skin. However, one of the best ingredients for skin prone to acne is actually hyaluronic acid (a lightweight humectant, aka a water-attracting ingredient) because it deeply hydrates without clogging pores. Learn why the right hydrating products can lead to a calmer, clearer complexion.
How Dehydrated Skin Can Make Acne Worse?
When your skin lacks water it becomes dehydrated, which actually makes acne-prone skin worse because your skin barrier is weak and can’t effectively protect itself from bacteria and environmental irritants. If your skin is dehydrated, it tries to make up for the lack of moisture by producing extra oil. That extra oil, along with dead skin cells can clog pores and lead to blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. It might seem like using drying treatments to control oil is the answer, but they can actually strip your skin of the water it needs. What ends up happening is that the skin becomes irritated and dehydrated, overproducing oil, and perpetuating the breakout cycle.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in our bodies that’s found in our skin, joints, and connective tissues, and acts like a sponge, attracting and holding water. This humectant “can retain water up to 1000 times its own weight” which is essential for healthy skin, plump, and hydrated. Hyaluronic acid helps replenish moisture to support the skin barrier and improve texture, without feeling heavy or greasy on your skin.
How Does Hyaluronic Acid Helps Acne-Prone Skin?
Hydrates & Balance Sebum Production
Hyaluronic acid is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. It offers lightweight hydration, balances oil production, and soothes irritation. By giving your skin the hydration it needs, hyaluronic acid helps restore balance, so your skin barrier is less likely to overproduce oil, cause your complexion to become greasy, or overproduce sebum. Incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum into your skincare routine supports a healthier barrier for clearer skin.
Soothes Irritation From Acne Treatments
Many acne fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids can dry out your skin or irritate it. While they work together to exfoliate and target bacteria, they can also weaken your skin barrier, causing red, flaky, and sensitive skin. For best results, apply hyaluronic acid after acne treatments and before moisturizing to soothe, calm irritation, and restore balance.
Supports a Healthier Skin Barrier
A strong, healthy skin barrier is your skin’s first line of defense against acne-causing bacteria. “The bacteria that is most strongly linked [to the cause of] acne” is Cutibacterium acnes. Dehydration, acne treatments, and over-exfoliation can all take a toll on your skin’s barrier, and hyaluronic acid helps repair and strengthen it by locking in moisture. A hydrated and healthy skin barrier is better equipped to heal current blemishes, prevent new ones, and maintain a clear complexion.
Shop the Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Add HPPY’s hydrating Plump + Renew Hyaluronic Acid Serum to your skincare routine to help with acne-prone skin. Let the serum absorb fully and then apply your favorite HPPY moisturizer. If used consistently, you’ll notice smoother, plumper, and healthier-looking skin!
Hyaluronic Acid FAQs
Is hyaluronic acid suitable for all skin types?
Yes, hyaluronic acid is gentle, non-irritating, and suitable for all skin types. It helps hydrate the skin by attracting and holding moisture, making it especially effective when paired with a moisturizer.
Can I use HA with other skincare products?
Yes, hyaluronic acid works well with most skincare ingredients, including vitamin C, retinol, and peptides. It helps keep your skin hydrated, which can boost the effectiveness of your other products.
How long will it take to see results?
Many see smoother, more hydrated skin within just a few days. For noticeable improvements in plumpness and texture, consistent use over several weeks is key.
Can hyaluronic acid help with wrinkles and fine lines?
Yes, hyaluronic acid helps plump and smooth the skin, temporarily reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Are there any side effects?
Hyaluronic acid is generally well-tolerated. Very sensitive skin may experience mild irritation, but reactions are rare.
