Blog post provided by The Spa of Colonial Williamsburg and Babor US. 

Hyaluronic Acid Skincare

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Skincare

During the dry winter months, hydration is one of the most important needs of both female and male skin.

It is essential for the overall quality of the skin including – radiance, elasticity, youthful appearance, and skin comfort. Well-hydrated skin is supple, elastic, free of wrinkles, it is comfortable and does not feel tight or sensitive. Generally, well-hydrated skin looks more youthful.

Hyaluronic acid is the body’s critical and natural hydrator and plays a crucial role in the epidermal architecture. This hydrophilic (water-loving) molecule acts like a sponge to attract and retain 1,000 times its own weight in water, making it an excellent hydrating moisturizer when applied topically.

Recognized as one of the most effective hydrating ingredients in a skincare routine, hyaluronic acid is essential in maintaining skin’s moisture levels. In addition to providing surface hydration, high levels of hyaluronic acid are correlated with an improved appearance in skin firmness, smoothness, and plumpness thus reducing signs of aging.

All women and men, whatever skin type they have, at times can be affected by dehydration. This may be temporary and reversible, and balance can be restored regaining optimal skin heath.

Dehydrated skin is not necessarily dry skin. Dehydrated skin lacks water, whatever its type.

A change in the hydrolipidic protective film and a deficiency in water retention lead to trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin may lack water and suffer from dehydration. Dehydration affects all skin types: normal to combination skin, oily skin, dry skin, skin prone to diffuse redness or sensitive skin types.

Dehydrated skin has a slower metabolism, and its protective barrier is altered. The skin is more fragile, so the dermis is damaged, particularly its collagen and elastin fibers. The skin’s ability to preserve its moisture declines and the stratum corneum quickly becomes dehydrated.

Skin dehydration results in an imbalance that can shows itself in many ways:

*Discomfort, tightness, lack of suppleness and elasticity

*Appearance of dehydration wrinkles

*Uneven surface which appears dull, tied and lacks radiance

*Roughness, flaking skin

The barrier and mechanical and elasticity properties of the skin are changed, and it cannot hold perspiration, and subsequently cannot defend itself against external molecules and microorganisms.

We recommend DOCTOR BABOR Hyaluron Cream – A light textured cream with a multidimensional moisturizing effect or the DOCTOR BABOR Hyaluron Serum – A powerful active concentrate with triple-action hyaluronic acid and HY-3 peptides.  Both can be purchased at the Spa Boutique.