Pictured above: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5; Endota Ceuticals Hyaluronic Serum

Look for these names in an ingredients list

• hyaluronic acid
• sodium hyaluronate - this is the salt form of hyaluronic acid. It penetrates skin better but it binds water of up to 1000 times (as opposed to 6000 times) its weight
• sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer - this is a modified form of sodium hyaluronate to allow it to work longer on the skin for enhanced hydration

How do I use hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is a rather common ingredient and you can find serums, masks and moisturisers with this ingredient. You will be able to find a higher concentration hyaluronic acid in specialised hydration serums. However, the maximum concentration that should be used is approximately 2%. At a higher concentration, the ingredient's high affinity for water may draw water back out from the skin, rather than providing hydration.

One tip for using hyaluronic acid is to use it on moist or wet skin, so to provide the water for the hyaluronic acid to "bind to". Hyaluronic acid itself without water does not provide as much benefit as it can be when used with water.  After using hyaluronic acid, "seal" the moisture in with an occlusive (a moisturiser or a facial oil) to slow down the evaporation of water).

This article is part of our pre-wedding skincare crash course. Read more skincare tips for the beautiful skin that you want for your wedding day.