Hyaluronic Acid: How to Hydrate Facial Skin the Right Way

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance the body makes naturally. It is found in large amounts in the skin, tears and joints. Its key feature is the ability to attract and hold water in the skin: a single HA molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, which makes it a popular ingredient for hydrating the skin. In this article, a dermatologist explains the benefits of HA and how to use it for the best results.

How does hyaluronic acid work?

HA is a humectant, meaning it draws water from the air and from the deeper layers of the skin up to the upper layers, leaving skin plump and looking firmer. Because it is not an occlusive, it hydrates without clogging pores and suits almost every skin type.

Benefits of hyaluronic acid for the skin

• Deep hydration: Draws water from the air and deeper skin layers into the upper layers, hydrating without clogging pores the way occlusives can.

• Suitable for all skin types: The texture is light and non-comedogenic, so it can be used safely even on acne-prone or sensitive skin.

• Temporarily softens the look of wrinkles: When skin is fully hydrated it looks firmer, and fine lines appear noticeably reduced.

• Supports skin recovery after procedures: Skin that has just had a treatment or dermatological procedure can use HA to help recovery and ease stinging or dryness afterwards.

How to use hyaluronic acid for the best results

The key is to lock moisture into the skin so that HA does not pull water out of the skin in dry weather.

• Apply to damp skin: Apply HA to skin that is still damp after cleansing, so there is water for HA to draw into the skin.

• Follow with a moisturizer: Apply a moisturizer right afterwards to hold the moisture in the skin.

• Add an occlusive in dry weather: If the weather is very dry, finish with an occlusive moisturizer to seal in moisture and prevent HA from drawing water out of the skin instead.

Frequently asked questions

Is hyaluronic acid suitable for oily or acne-prone skin? Yes. HA is lightweight, non-comedogenic and does not clog pores, so it can be used safely even on oily or acne-prone skin.

Why is my skin still dry after using HA? HA is a humectant that draws water into the skin. If the air is dry and you do not finish with a moisturizer, HA may draw water out of the skin instead. Always apply it on damp skin and follow with a moisturizer.

Does HA really reduce wrinkles? It makes fine lines look temporarily reduced because the skin is plumper and firmer, but it does not permanently change skin structure the way retinoids do.

When do I use HA in my routine? Use it after cleansing on damp skin, before your moisturizer. It can be used both morning and evening.

If your skin is dry or dehydrated, or you have a skin concern that needs personalized advice, consult a dermatologist at Siam Dermatology. Call +66 61 448 7000 or LINE @siamderm

Written by Dr. Patara Voravutinon, Dermatologist · Last reviewed July 16, 2026