Hyaluronic acid is a popular ingredient used in skincare regimens today that can be found in products ranging from serums to sheet masks. It is a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan molecule that occurs naturally in the skin in the extracellular matrix molecules. Hyaluronic acid is an important component in skin moisture because of its ability to retain water molecules therefore acting as a humectant. Skin aging is affected by both intrinsic and extrinsic processes. Intrinsic processes are unpreventable and include hormonal changes as you age such as decreased estrogens and androgens leading to less collagen. Extrinsic processes include ultraviolet radiation exposure which causes skin damage. As you age, hyaluronic acid polymers shrink and the epidermis loses hyaluronic acid which leads to dehydration, atrophy, and loss of elasticity of the skin. There was a double blind, randomized study done to evaluate the effectiveness of a hyaluronic acid based product to decrease aging signs and improve face volume in wrinkles. The tested product was called Fillerina and the study was done with 40 female subjects with 20 divided into the 2 groups. The subjects’ loss of volume of their face contours, cheekbones and lips as well as wrinkles depth and volume were measured before the start of the study and after day 7, 14, and 30. Compared to the placebo group, the treatment group had an improvement in skin sagging and decreased wrinkle depth and volume. The placebo group had a slight worsening of their skin sagging but this can be due to normal differences in how much a person's skin sags. Overall, it was shown that the use of hyaluronic acid can improve skin moisturization and the appearance of aged skin.
References
Nobile V, Buonocore D, Michelotti A, Marzatico F. Anti-aging and filling efficacy of six types hyaluronic acid based dermo-cosmetic treatment: double blind, randomized clinical trial of efficacy and safety. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2014;13(4):277-287. doi:10.1111/jocd.12120
Papakonstantinou E, Roth M, Karakiulakis G. Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermatoendocrinol. 2012;4(3):253-258. doi:10.4161/derm.21923
Salicylic acid is a widely used compound in various skincare products and medications, known for its ability to treat acne, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is derived from willow bark and other plants. It is a colorless, crystalline organic acid that is soluble in alcohol and ether but only slightly soluble in water. Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory, keratolytic, and antimicrobial properties, making it an effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions.
One of the primary uses of salicylic acid is in the treatment of acne. It works by penetrating the skin and dissolving the dead skin cells and oil that can clog pores, leading to acne breakouts. Salicylic acid is often found in acne cleansers, toners, and spot treatments. Salicylic acid is also used to treat other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and keratosis pilaris. It is effective in these conditions because it helps to soften and loosen dry, scaly skin, allowing it to be shed more easily. In addition to its skincare uses, salicylic acid is also used in medications to treat pain and reduce fever. It is a common ingredient in over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin.
One of the key benefits of salicylic acid is its ability to exfoliate the skin. By dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, salicylic acid helps to unclog pores and improve the texture and tone of the skin. This can lead to a smoother, clearer complexion. Salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne and other skin conditions. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties make it effective at killing the bacteria that can contribute to acne breakouts.
While salicylic acid is generally considered safe for most people, there are some risks and considerations to be aware of. Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using products containing salicylic acid. It is important to patch test any new skincare products and discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions. Salicylic acid can also increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, so it is important to use sunscreen when using products containing salicylic acid to protect the skin from sun damage.