{
  "id": 3302113,
  "title": "Why hyaluronic acid can leave skin feeling dry",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/why-hyaluronic-acid-can-leave-skin-feeling-dry",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-25T16:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/best-buys/why-hyaluronic-acid-can-leave-skin-feeling-dry-1.500646826"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Hyaluronic acid (HA) is often praised for its ability to attract and retain moisture, but its effects on skin hydration are more complex than commonly believed. As a naturally occurring substance in human skin, HA functions as a humectant, meaning it binds water molecules. However, its impact on the skin surface depends on the presence of other ingredients within a skincare routine.\n\nThe outermost layer of skin, known as the stratum corneum, is composed of dead skin cells and needs to retain moisture effectively. While HA helps keep water within the formulation and at the skin's surface, it does not create moisture on its own. The balance of water retention in the stratum corneum is influenced by a combination of natural humectants and lipids that form a protective barrier, preventing water loss from the deeper skin layers.\n\nThe misconception that HA \"sucks water out of your skin\" in dry conditions is an oversimplification. Instead, a more accurate understanding is that HA works best when integrated into a comprehensive moisturising system. A hydrating serum containing HA works best when supplemented by emollient and occlusive ingredients found in a moisturiser, which help to limit water evaporation from the skin.\n\nWhen using HA in a skincare routine, it is essential to treat the regimen as two distinct steps: hydration and moisturisation. Applying a HA serum to damp skin can enhance its water-binding capabilities. However, relying solely on the concentration of HA in a product does not guarantee optimal results. The overall formula, including other humectants and what follows the serum in the routine, plays a significant role in the effectiveness of the moisturising process.\n\nProducts such as the L'Oréal Paris Hyaluron Expert 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum, designed specifically as a humectant step, work well when followed by a moisturiser. The EltaMD Moisture Seal, an intensive occlusive moisturiser, complements HA by providing a protective barrier against water loss. The Dr. Althea Oasis Soothing Mist supplies water to the skin surface before applying HA, while the Face Shop Ceramide Moisturizing Cream offers a rich, finishing layer to seal in moisture.\n\nIn summary, the key takeaway is that HA alone cannot fulfill all the needs of a complete moisturising regimen. A balanced approach combining water-binding ingredients like HA with a barrier-supporting moisturiser is essential for maintaining optimal skin hydration, particularly in dry or air-conditioned environments. For those experiencing persistent dryness or irritation, consulting with a dermatologist can provide personalized guidance.",
  "summary": "Hyaluronic acid has become shorthand for hydration, but the chemistry is more interesting than the label suggests. It is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and binds water, and occurs naturally in human skin. Research describes topical HA as a humectant, with different molecular weights affecting how it behaves at and below the skin surface. Yet adding a water-binding ingredient is only half of a…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}