What is Hyaluronic Acid (HA) and Why We Use It
I often get asked about hyaluronic acid (HA)… what it is, how it works, and why it’s used in both skincare and injectable treatments. I want to break it down simply, so you know exactly what’s happening when you choose a treatment or product.
Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in our bodies. It’s a sugar molecule found in connective tissues, especially abundant in your skin, joints, eyes, and around your organs. Its main role is to retain water, and it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This makes it essential for keeping tissues plump, flexible, and well-lubricated.
In the Skin…
HA is concentrated in the dermis, the layer beneath the surface, where it helps maintain firmness, elasticity, and volume. It also supports collagen and elastin fibers, which give the skin its structure and resilience. In the joints, HA is a key component of synovial fluid, the lubricating liquid that allows smooth, pain-free movement while cushioning cartilage and reducing friction. HA also plays a vital role in wound healing, helping regulate inflammation, supporting cell migration, and promoting tissue repair. As we age, natural HA levels decline, contributing to thinner, drier skin, loss of volume, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
In skincare…
HA is a hydration powerhouse. Topical serums and creams draw water into the skin, helping it feel soft, smooth, and refreshed. Different types of HA penetrate at different levels—some stay on the surface for immediate hydration, while smaller molecules reach deeper layers for longer-lasting moisture. While HA in skincare won’t actually fill wrinkles from the inside, it can dramatically improve skin texture, softness, and radiance.
In injectables….
HA can be a game-changer. In this context, it’s been specially modified to stay in place after injection. HA fillers restore lost volume, smooth lines, and give areas like lips, cheeks, or under the eyes a natural lift. Because HA is already in your body, the risk of allergic reactions is very low, and treatments can be reversed if needed with hyaluronidase. That said, it’s important to remember that fillers are not risk-free. Injecting into inflamed or compromised tissue can sometimes cause lumps, nodules, or granulomas, which can take months to resolve.
Our priority is always safe, informed treatments. Understanding what HA is and how it works can help you make confident choices about both your skincare and aesthetic treatments.
Rewa Aesthetics 2025
Disclaimer: Blog posts are for educational purposes only.
All aesthetic treatments come with risks and potential side effects, and not all treatments are suitable for everyone. A thorough consultation is essential to determine what is safe and appropriate for each individual.