If you are not fully familiar with the benefits of hyaluronic acid for healthy looking skin then you arent alone; hyaluronic acid remains a well kept secret among experts within the skin-care industry. Of course, there is good reason behind the shroud of secrecy hyaluronic acid gets great results and could potentially cut into the profits of those trying to sell more expensive surgical procedures for fine lines and other routine damage that responds beautifully to the healing effects of hyaluronic acid.

Results by Any Other Name

Hyaluronic Acid is a rather unfortunate name since it evokes images of harsh chemicals or excessively strong substances typically known to irritate skin. Nothing could be further from the facts; although coined an acid, this substance actually occurs naturally in the skin and joints of the body itself making it the perfect solution for those with known allergies or sensitivities. No painful recuperation, no stiff smiles and no big bills just a simple healthy smile without the smile lines!

Plump Up the Volume

The secret to hyaluronic acid is actually simple once you understand how it works. Because it is a naturally occurring substance found in skin, collagen and other areas of the body there is little irritation or risk of allergy, unlike other popular skin care products. However, don't confuse gentle with a lack of efficacy. Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds water within the cells of the skin and tissue underneath, literally acting like a sponge to retain a supple, firm skin tone and youthful appearance. In fact, HA excels in this area and is actually able to absorb approximately 1,000 times its own weight inside the extracellular spaces within the matrix of the skin. It plumps skin and enhances the volume to create that same firm yet soft and supple skin associated with youth. Changes can be seen in as little as 30 minutes and last up to six months or even longer depending upon the method of delivery, duration of use and formulation.

Additionally, hyaluronic acid is able to effectively penetrate the skin and assist in the delivery of other important ingredients to aide in the healing and restoration required in the maintenance of supple skin.

Going, Going, Gone

Unfortunately, the naturally occurring levels of hyaluronic acid produced by the body tend to decline over time. As we age, the body begins to produce less and less hyaluronic acid while the cumulative environmental impact of radiation, chemicals, poor nutrition and other hazards continue to take their toll. Delicate facial tissue tends to show it first as the impact of dehydration, loss of collagen and reduction of elastin form fine lines, wrinkles and loss of supple skin tone.

It is possible to replace or enhance the body's own production of hyaluronic acid through diet, injections or just the regular application of a topical cream; however, there are some tactical considerations to keep in mind. Injections are effective for three to six months but require the use of needles and have a tendency to fade over time leading to an inconsistent facial appearance as well as gradual onset of new wrinkles.

The most consistent hyaluronic acid approach is the use of a daily serum or topical but unfortunately, few cosmetics use hyaluronic acid in their formularies due to the significant cost in comparison to inferior ingredients. Not only does it provide consistent results but delivers a steady supply of hydration and other important elements required to fight fine lines and wrinkles on a regular basis.

Regain Your Smile Without the Smile Lines

They start to appear before you even realize what is taking place; first a subtle crease across the forehead or perhaps a deeper than normal imprint left on your face after a long nights sleep, sooner or later they simply can't be ignored. What started out as a harmless little line is soon to become a full blown wrinkle without a little boost from Mother Natures own anti-aging serum. We offer a selection of Hyaluronic acid formulations that come in a variety of brands designed to meet your every need:

Kinerase HydraBoost Intensive Treatment. With 25 percent Hyaluronic Acid combined with Lipomoist, this moisture magnet locks in the water long after other mere moisturizers have completely evaporated making it a sensational solution for those suffering from dry skin or in need of a little TLC.

Peter Thomas Roth VIZ-1000. This super concentrated complex contains 75 percent Hyaluronic Acid to form a shield of moisture to protect from even the most harsh conditions and arid climates.

Cellex-C Hydra 5 B-Complex. Finally, an oil-free clear gel that contains just the right amount of Hyaluronic Acid to obtain the same great results and supple firm skin tone.

Viscontour Serum. This topical serum is gentle yet effective in restoring a youthful radiant appearance to all skin types without risk of irritation or sensitivities associated with most anti-aging products. Treat skin hydration needs at the source rather than stripping away the outer layer and important hydration protection.

The One-Two Knock-Out! For those in need of just a little additional help, VitaMedica HA + A Serum and Supplement duo is the perfect combination for treating skin needs both internally and externally. Designed for all skin types, the serum combines the effectiveness of HA with antioxidants for maximum healing, hydration and skin health. The VitaMedica HA + A Supplement picks up where the serum left off by providing the body with the ingredients it needs to restore the internal function and health required for proper skin health.

Comparing Hyaluronic Acid Products

Not all products that use hyaluronic acid are the same; quality, consistency and concentration percentages are critical concerns when evaluating the efficacy of HA in topical solutions.

Potency. Don't be fooled by inferior products that claim to use HA. Actually take the time to compare the percentage of HA in the product by volume. Some manufacturers use as little as 1 percent HA in a product simply to be able to put the claim on the package or charge extra.

Active & Inactive Ingredients. If the product contains other active ingredients be sure they are right for your skin type. Remember, HA not only restores moisture levels to your skin matrix but actually increases the absorption of other substances into your skin. Avoid products that contain HA in conjunction with inferior fillers or other potential irritants; instead, insist upon only the most pure ingredients that enhance the effectiveness of HA in delivering the nutrients your skin needs.

Your Personal Skin Type. Finally, select the appropriate level of HA serum for your skin type. Those who are simply trying to preserve an already youthful appearance may require a lightweight topical for daily use while others with more pronounced lines or the beginning of wrinkles would benefit from a higher concentration. Those with special needs such as long term sun exposure, extremely harsh weather conditions or advanced aging concerns may require the combination approach of HA serum and supplementation. We carry the best products available for all skin types and specialized needs.

Put a Smile Back on Your Face

Hyaluronic Acid is the non-surgical solution used by millions of women to preserve that youthful appearance and reverse those less than complementary smile lines and other fine wrinkles without the irritation and side effects associated with other products. No need to worry about an unappealing stiff smile, the use of painful needles or the potential side effects of other anti-aging solutions; instead, Hyaluronic Acid plumps the skin while rejuvenating and restoring a healthy complexion through the use of the same substance produced by your own body in its youth. Best of all, its simple, safe and effective to obtain consistent results in the privacy of your very own home without having to schedule appointments before the last treatment wears off and your face begins to show new signs of aging.

Simple, safe, effective- now that is a real reason to smile!

Shannon Perez
DERMAdoctor Staff Writer

(Any topic discussed in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please check with your doctor.)

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