What Is Hyaluronic Acid - Uses, Side Effects, Benefits
Dry skin. Fine lines. A tight, uncomfortable feeling that no moisturiser seems to fix.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
Millions of people struggle to keep their skin hydrated and smooth, especially with age, sun exposure, or harsh skincare products. But there’s good news. A naturally occurring molecule called hyaluronic acid might be the hydration hero your skin has been waiting for.
At Clarion Medical and Aesthetics, we understand how confusing it can be to choose the right treatment for your skin. That’s why we offer personalised care using cutting-edge technology, including targeted solutions like hyaluronic acid-based treatments that support real results, not just hype.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule your body makes naturally. It’s found in your skin, eyes, joints, and connective tissues.
Its main job? Holding onto water. And lots of it.
In fact, just one gram of hyaluronic acid can retain up to six litres of water. That’s what makes it so effective at keeping skin plump, elastic, and glowing. Think of it as your body’s internal moisturiser, only smarter.
But as we age, natural hyaluronic acid levels drop. That’s when the fine lines, dullness, and dryness start creeping in. With less water content in the skin, you might also notice a change in skin tone and elasticity.
How Does Hyaluronic Acid Work? (It’s More Than Just a Moisture Magnet)
Think of hyaluronic acid like a sponge. It absorbs water and holds it close. This boosts the water content of your skin and keeps it from evaporating too quickly.
Depending on the molecular weight of the product used, HA can penetrate different levels of your skin:
High molecular weight HA sits on top of the skin and delivers fast hydration.
Low molecular weight HA reaches deeper layers for longer-lasting benefits.
Fragmented forms are sometimes used in professional treatments for targeted effects.
That’s why you might see different results from different products. Not all hyaluronic acids are created equal. At Clarion, we work with advanced formulations to ensure you're getting the correct form of hyaluronic acid for your specific concern.
Why Everyone’s Talking About It
The hype around hyaluronic acid isn’t just clever marketing. It’s earned. Because it delivers real, visible improvements to skin health and more.
Hydrated Skin That Feels Comfortable
Forget tightness and flaking. Hyaluronic acid helps attract and lock in moisture in the deeper layers of your skin. That means your face stays soft, bouncy, and healthy-looking all day long.
It’s especially powerful for dehydrated skin, where the surface looks dull but also feels parched underneath. Thanks to its water-binding abilities, this molecule provides intense hydration while keeping water loss to a minimum. Your skin feels better—and looks better too.
Smoother Skin Texture
Using hyaluronic acid products regularly can help minimise the look of fine lines and nasolabial folds by temporarily plumping the skin. This gives the surface a more refined, smoother texture.
And smoother skin doesn’t just look younger. It also helps makeup apply better and reduces the need for heavy foundation.
Balanced Skin Tone
Dry or dehydrated skin can make your complexion look patchy or uneven. Hyaluronic acid serums improve your skin tone by hydrating all areas evenly—no flaky zones, no greasy patches. The result is a more uniform appearance.
Over time, regular use of hyaluronic acid helps your skin regain its natural glow. It also makes other skincare ingredients work better because hydrated skin is more receptive to treatments.
Gentle Care for Sensitive Skin
Thanks to its gentle nature, hyaluronic acid is often well tolerated, even for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions like rosacea. It doesn’t clog pores or cause flare-ups. It doesn’t sting. It simply hydrates.
That makes it an excellent choice if you’ve had bad reactions to skincare ingredients in the past. Many Clarion patients with reactive skin find relief using our carefully formulated hyaluronic acid-based treatments.
Support for Collagen Production
Some studies suggest that HA may indirectly help boost collagen production by keeping the skin moist and elastic. This can result in improved firmness and structure over time.
Collagen is key to youthful skin. While hyaluronic acid doesn’t produce collagen itself, it helps create the ideal environment for collagen to thrive.
Healing and Repair Benefits
Wound healing? Yes, that too. Hyaluronic acid supports tissue repair, making it useful after treatments like lasers, chemical peels, or microneedling. It also plays a role in soothing inflammation.
At Clarion, we often use HA-based gels post-procedure to calm the skin, speed recovery, and lock in moisture when it’s needed most. It’s one of the reasons our patients see such great results after advanced aesthetic treatments.
Beauty Boost or Medical Must-Have?
While it’s a superstar in skincare routines, hyaluronic acid isn’t limited to cosmetic use.
It’s also used medically in:
Injectable dermal fillers for volume restoration
Hyaluronic acid gels to ease joint pain (like in osteoarthritis)
Eye drops for dry eye syndrome
Post-surgery wound care and healing treatments
This makes it one of the most versatile skincare and health ingredients available. Whether you're improving skin hydration or addressing pain and inflammation, the benefits of hyaluronic acid extend far beyond beauty.
Does Hyaluronic Acid Suit Everyone?
Generally, yes. It’s safe and effective across a wide range of skin types, ages, and concerns.
It works well for:
Dehydrated skin that needs moisture
Dry skin with a damaged barrier
Oily or acne-prone skin that reacts poorly to thick creams
Ageing skin with fine lines and sagging
Post-treatment skin recovering from peels, lasers, or microneedling
Not sure if it’s right for you? Our Clarion specialists can assess your skin condition and tailor a plan—whether that’s topical products, injections, or a combination of ingredients for the best results.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Side effects are rare, but it’s smart to be aware. Topical products are usually well tolerated. But in rare cases, some people experience:
A slight allergic reaction or irritation (especially if the product contains added fragrances or alcohol)
Breakouts if used with incompatible products
Redness or swelling with injectable acid fillers (usually temporary)
That’s why we always recommend speaking with a qualified professional. At Clarion, your safety is our top priority. Our personalised treatments are designed to reduce risks and boost benefits.
How to Pick the Perfect Product
With so many hyaluronic acid products out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Here’s a breakdown:
Hyaluronic acid serums: Best for daily skin hydration. Lightweight and fast-absorbing. Often combined with vitamin B5 or other humectants.
Creams and moisturisers: Great for sealing in hydration. Works well in dry climates or winter.
Injectables: Also known as dermal fillers. Used for adding volume or contouring facial areas like lips, cheeks, or under the eyes.
Supplements and HA powders: Still under research. Some believe they help with joint and skin health internally.
The key? Choose based on your skin goals and your skin’s natural production of HA. At Clarion, we guide you through this selection with expert advice and professional-grade options.
Common Hyaluronic Acid Skin Care Myths
Myth 1: It’s Only for Dry Skin.
False. Even oily skin can be dehydrated. Hyaluronic acid works by adding water, not oil. That means it hydrates without making your skin greasy, which is actually ideal for oily and acne-prone types.
Myth 2: The More You Use, the Better.
Nope. Using too much product won’t boost results. In fact, it could backfire. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the environment, and if your skin is dry or the air lacks humidity, it may pull water from your deeper skin layers instead, leaving you drier. A pea-sized amount is usually enough.
Myth 3: It Replaces Moisturiser.
Wrong again. HA hydrates, but doesn’t seal in moisture. You need a moisturiser to lock that hydration in, especially if you're in a dry climate or using active ingredients in your routine.
Myth 4: It Stretches Your Skin Over Time.
This one’s just not true. Used correctly, hyaluronic acid actually supports skin elasticity by creating a plump, hydrated environment—ideal for collagen production.
Myth 5: It's Only a Trend.
Hyaluronic acid has been used in medicine and skincare for decades. It’s not a passing fad—it's backed by research, clinical use, and real-world results. What’s trendy now is simply wider awareness of what it can do.
Should You Try Hyaluronic Acid?
Absolutely, but make it personal. Hyaluronic acid is a versatile ingredient that works best when used in the correct form, the right amount, and with the proper support. That’s where we come in.
At Clarion Medical and Aesthetics, we don’t just hand you a bottle and send you on your way. We assess your skin health, listen to your concerns, and create individualised treatment plans that work with your skin’s natural rhythms.
Ready for softer, smoother, healthier skin? Book a consultation with us today. Your face will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Hyaluronic Acid Help With Acne?
Indirectly, yes. It hydrates without clogging pores, which helps balance oily skin and reduce irritation.
Can I Use It with Retinol or Vitamin C?
Yes. In fact, it works even better when paired with actives that might cause dryness or irritation. Hyaluronic acid helps cushion your skin and enables it to tolerate stronger ingredients.
How Long Before I See Results?
You may notice smoother, more hydrated skin within hours. For more noticeable changes in skin texture and fine lines, expect visible results in 2 to 4 weeks with regular use.
Is It Okay for Mature Skin?
Definitely. In fact, mature skin often benefits the most because of its lower natural hyaluronic acid levels. Regular application improves elasticity, plumpness, and hydration—all crucial for ageing skin.
Should I Get a Serum or Go for Injections?
It depends on what you need. Serums are great for daily upkeep and surface hydration. Injections provide volume and structural support, ideal for deeper lines and facial contouring. We offer both options, and our team can guide you toward the right fit based on your goals.