BENEFITS OF HYDRAULIC ACID

Hydraulic acid (HA) is making headlines as the magic ingredient in over-the-counter beauty products worldwide. And for good reason too! It is naturally found in the body (about 15g), and lends itself to moisturising the skin and staying youthful. However, as one ages, it doesn’t help to have that boost of HA from an external source and apply it topically.

Using it regularly on your skin helps enhance tissue function. As the skin ages, and loses moisture and elasticity, HA helps hold in water and aids skin health and longevity. The skin is smoother and more supple. Microscopic studies across the world have shown a delay in the onset of wrinkles. Applying HA ensures that the moisture is locked in, and the layer of serum or cream on your skin means that harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun don’t damage your skin.

Worried that you might be getting too much moisture? HA is considered a ‘smart’ ingredient. It adjusts itself according to each body and skin type’s need, the weather conditions, humidity and so on. Taken only on the advice and prescription of your dermatologist, and as an oral supplement, HA can enhance collagen production, keeping the skin cell structure intact for longer. Collagen is one of the most effective proteins that makes the skin firmer and more supple, and HA boosts the synthesis of this protein. Certain HA creams are not meant for the face. Instead they are used on the joints topically to repair damaged tissue, and are particularly useful in cases of osteoarthritis.

However, you need to watch out for a few things. Make sure that the serum or cream you’re opting for does not contain alcohol, parabens or sulfates, since these ingredients will counter all the good being done by HA, and could backfire. Consult your skin specialist before you make any choices.