What is Hyaluronic acid?
Humectant
Hyaluronic acid is a long chain sugar molecule used as a humectant, the part of a formula that binds water. Molecular weight changes how the raw material behaves in a mix, so a single label often lists several forms of it at once. On Korean ingredient lists it shows up as hyaluronic acid, as sodium hyaluronate, or as a crosspolymer version of either.
Ingredient lists write this family more than one way, and this page counts them together: hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, sodium acetylated hyaluronate, hydroxypropyltrimonium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate, potassium hyaluronate and the hyaluronic acid copolymer.
What can you expect from it?
Dry skin gets more surface moisture, most with small-size hyaluronic acid.
4 weeks of use
What won't it do?
Claims you often see, and what is actually true.
Large hyaluronic acid won't plump deep skin.
High molecular weight HA plumps or hydrates the deep skin
It won't repair the barrier.
Topical HA improves or repairs the skin barrier
A serum won't work like a filler.
A topical HA serum works like a filler
Holding 1000 times its weight in water doesn't mean far better moisture.
HA holds 1000 times its weight in water, therefore it hydrates skin far better
Anything to watch out for?
- Animal studies showed no allergy signal, and wide use has shown no notable reactions.
- It is one of the lower risk ingredients here.
What does it pair well with?
Hyaluronic acid raised surface moisture but did not cut water loss, so pairing it with a sealing or softening layer makes sense for what it did not do. That pair hasn't been tested directly.
Fine to use together
How much, and for how long?
Products use it at up to 2%. A higher number on the label is a formulation choice, and more hasn't been shown to work better.
Which products feature it?
651 of the 2320 products we've checked feature this as a key ingredient. Products that disclose a concentration or list it near the top of the ingredient list come first.
Showing 1 to 12.
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#2 on the ingredient list · 10.0207%), Panthenol, Allantoin
1 claim checked
claims, checked
*Ion Hyalu™
partly backed
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#3 on the ingredient list · 10.0207%), Madecassoside, Asiaticoside
2 claims checked
claims, checked
*Ion Hialu™
partly backed[Fast Moisture/Cooling Soothing]
overstated
퓨로피엘
마이크로핏 액티브 톤업패치 (Korean)This brand publishes no English name for this product. The name above is as printed in Korean.
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#1 on the ingredient list), Niacinamide, Adenosine
16 claims, summarized
- Don't count on:
- better hydration
See each claim
claims, checked
1) Tear open the individual packaging and take out one product at a time. 2) Attach to the desired area and press gently for 5 seconds. 3) Remove the patch after at least 4~10 hours.
backed by evidence* Limited to the characteristics of the raw material.
backed by evidence280μm uniform height
plausible, not tested4.5kgf high compressive strength
plausible, not testedThe key is precisely from 'spacing, not quantity'.
plausible, not testedClean region Jeonnam Goheung yuja extract 5,000ppm
partly backed920 high-quality microdots
partly backedLighten dark spots, brighten skin tone / Natural vita energy infused into the skin / Vita C Microfit Active Tone-up Patch
partly backedGoheung yuja, grown in the clean natural environment of Goheung, the best yuja-producing region, has 3 times higher vitamin content than lemon, helping with blemish improvement and whitening care.
overstatedThe polyphenols and minerals in fig extract, a naturally derived moisturizing ingredient, help care for smooth and radiant skin texture.
no supporting source found800μm optimal spacing
no supporting source foundPyuropiel's proprietary method that enhances absorption with high strength and precise spacing design.
no supporting source foundPyuropiel, a high-quality/functional cosmetics brand incorporating Medical Grade manufacturing/quality control know-how.
no supporting source foundPyuropiel | Vita C Microfit Active Tone-up Patch. Complete a clear and radiant skin tone with the vitality of vitamins. A tone-up solution that adheres without lifting with a microfit sheet for easy care anytime, anywhere. Add a glowing mood to your daily life with an MD-curated item.
nothing specific to checkThrough daily care, not a temporary improvement, but an experience of skin becoming clear on its own. We develop perfect and gentle skincare by meticulously incorporating pure natural ingredients and rigorous, scientific expertise.
nothing specific to checkVita C patch, tone-up patch, microfit, skin vitality, vitamin care, daily home care, adherence patch, Pyuropiel recommendation
nothing specific to check
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#1 on the ingredient list), Centella Asiatica Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
5 claims, summarized
- Only partly backed:
- calmer skin
- Tests passed:
- non-comedogenic · skin irritation
See each claim
claims, checked
Non-comedogenic (number of facial lesions, skin sebum amount) / Core Derm / 2022.1.17~2.18 / 23-person human skin primary irritation test / 2022.1.25~1.28 / 31 people
backed by evidencePatented micro technology delivers natural-derived active ingredients directly into the skin for a fast soothing effect. Micro patch suitable for acne-prone skin/skin irritation test completed.
partly backedWith plant-derived patented micro shot<br> without irritation, fast and deep soothing
partly backedWith natural-derived patented micro shot, skin concerns one-shot one-kill.
overstatedEmergency spot partner item, fast and deep soothing, patented micro shot, suitable for acne-prone skin
nothing specific to check
Wellage
Real Hyaluronic 100 Toner
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#1 on the ingredient list), Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans, Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate
7 claims, summarized
- Don't count on:
- better hydration
See each claim
claims, checked
Ultra-low molecular weight hyaluronic water 93%
partly backedA product that contains 93% of Wellage's proprietary ingredient 'Hial水™' to provide abundant moisture to the skin.
partly backed#InnerDrynessSolved
overstatedThe product's inner dryness improvement effect was also confirmed through a human application test at a professional clinical institution. Upon product use, △skin surface moisture increased by 201.52%, △inner stratum corneum moisture up to 20 layers increased by 85.99%.
no supporting source foundIt was recognized as a non-irritating (non-stimulating) product through the human skin primary irritation test.
no supporting source foundWhen this product is used together with Wellage 'Real Hyaluronic 100 Ampoule', it showed a high moisture improvement rate of 116.56% with approximately 1.5 times more moisture compared to using the ampoule alone.
no supporting source found#InnerMoistureToner
nothing specific to check
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#1 on the ingredient list)
1 claim checked
claims, checked
The beginning of high-performance derma, Wellage.
nothing specific to check
DERMAFIRM
Vita Active Micro Crystal Patch Plus
It's registered in Korea as a functional cosmetic for brightening and wrinkle improvement.
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#1 on the ingredient list), Ascorbyl Glucoside, Niacinamide
7 claims, summarized
- You can expect:
- less visible dark spots · softer-looking fine lines
- Only partly backed:
- a brighter skin tone · better hydration
- Don't count on:
- firmer skin
See each claim
claims, checked
Functional cosmetics review (or reporting) completed in accordance with the Cosmetics Act / Whitening, wrinkle improvement functionality
backed by evidenceThis product contains 817,091 ppm (80%) of low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, which enhances skin moisture retention. The hyaluronic acid has been broken down into smaller fragments, with an average molecular weight of 50kDa
plausible, not testedContains Dermafirm's patented Glutathione Nano Brightening (4,300 ppm of Glutathione). Patent Status(Application No. 10-2587666)
partly backedDual (brightening & anti-wrinkle) functional product approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety
partly backedThe ultra-fine needles (thinner than hair) directly deliver active ingredients to the skin
overstatedClinically proven results after just one use. Eye Bag Lifting: Improved by 14.17%. Fine Lines Around the Eyes: Reduced by 17.55%. Melanin Levels: Reduced by 26.31%. Dark Spots: Reduced by 17.27%. Nasolabial Volume: Improved by 12.50%. Nasolabial Wrinkles: Reduced by 16.46%
no supporting source foundContaining "Botox-like peptides" with mechanisms similar with Botox : Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide
no supporting source found
It's made for better hydration.
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#3 on the ingredient list), Sodium PCA, Beta-Glucan
3 claims, summarized
- Only partly backed:
- better hydration
See each claim
claims, checked
Made with a super mild, silky feel to be gentle and comfortable.
plausible, not testedPerfectly suited for moisture-deficient oily, oily, and greasy sebum concerns, cleanliness itself!
plausible, not testedComfortable, fresh moisture barrier care for various skin types stressed by multiple basic skincare routines.
partly backed
Nightingale
DAILY DERMA CLEANSING WATER DEEP
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#4 on the ingredient list), Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract
1 claim checked
claims, checked
Cleanly removes makeup and even pore waste!
plausible, not tested
I'm From
Fig Enzyme Powder Cleanser
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#4 on the ingredient list), Papain, Ficin
Isntree
Hyaluronic Acid Toner
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#4 on the ingredient list), Sodium PCA, Beta-Glucan
It's made for a brighter skin tone and better hydration.
Key: Hyaluronic Acid (#4 on the ingredient list), Sodium PCA, Niacinamide
32 claims, summarized
- You can expect:
- a brighter skin tone · better hydration
See each claim
claims, checked
A product for customers who prefer the natural scent of raw ingredients.
backed by evidenceWhen you first use it, the raw ingredient scent feels unfamiliar, and you may perceive it as a dull scent? a musty scent.
backed by evidenceColor feel: A milky and translucent color, as no synthetic colorants are used.
backed by evidenceFeel of moisturization: A moisture lotion that provides hydration / If dryness is severe, use together with an oil-based moisturizing product.
backed by evidenceCeramide 3 and Ceramide NP are the same ingredient.
backed by evidenceThe ingredient name has been changed and is displayed as Ceramide NP.
backed by evidenceMoisturizing lotion for inner-dry skin troubled by facial tightness.
plausible, not testedClean application feel and moisture.
plausible, not testedOily skin also experiences dryness that pulls from within.
plausible, not testedViscosity feel: A thin and silky cream texture.
plausible, not testedUltra Lotion: It has a scent similar to Madariale Cream, with a raw-ingredient scent.
plausible, not testedFeel of spreadability: Full of moist hydration, and after application, a thin film forms / Good feel even for oily skin.
plausible, not testedEven oily skin needs oil-water moisturization.
plausible, not testedMoisture for inner-dry skin and combination skin.
plausible, not testedWe provide a comfortable feel for all skin types, including male customers.
plausible, not testedThe more refreshing the application feel, the better the absorption seems.
plausible, not testedSeedmul is making cosmetics free from concerns about bacteria, fungi, and microorganisms through microbial testing, so you can use them with confidence.
partly backedUltra Facial Moisturizing Lotion is for sensitive and all type of skins. Hyaluronic Acid and moisturizing factors deliver nutritions, hydrate skins and protect against environmental irritants for healthier-looking skin.
partly backedpH about 6.6, mildly acidic product.
overstatedSeedmul cosmetics free from worries about bacteria, fungi, and microorganisms.
overstatedThis product applies a stabilization system using plant ingredients and is prepared with sensitive skin in mind.
no supporting source foundSkin irritation test completed.
no supporting source foundPregnant women, nursing mothers.
no supporting source foundAnimal-free.
no supporting source foundHigh repurchase rate.
no supporting source foundSeedmul, the hometown of skin, holds 110 domestic and international patents related to products and trademarks, and develops various products together with customers.
no supporting source foundThe two products have no difference in ingredients except fragrance-related components.
contradicted by sourcesEnds inner dryness.
nothing specific to checkPraise from numerous customers.
nothing specific to checkUltra moisture lotion recognized for its results.
nothing specific to checkThis product is prepared with all sensitive skin in mind.
nothing specific to checkTo care for such skin with a good feel and moisture, we have composed it with ingredients infused with Seedmul's heart.
nothing specific to check
Are the claims about it backed up?
We checked each claim that features this ingredient. Open the list below to see the result for each one.
See the results by claim
| Result | Claims |
|---|---|
| backed by evidence | 49 of 320 |
| plausible, not tested | 35 of 320 |
| partly backed | 148 of 320 |
| overstated | 47 of 320 |
| no supporting source found | 35 of 320 |
| contradicted by sources | 2 of 320 |
| nothing specific to check | 4 of 320 |
These are counts of claims, not products. One product can name the same ingredient in several claims, and we checked each one on its own.
Which articles cover it?
Posts on this site that take this ingredient as their subject.
Sources
We summarized the published studies and public records listed below, each with its DOI or PubMed number. Findings about treating medical conditions are outside what a cosmetics page covers, so we left them out.
What can you expect from it?
Dry skin gets more surface moisture, most with small-size hyaluronic acid.
The small size of HA raised the water sitting in the skin surface after 4 weeks; the large size did not raise it as much, and both read higher than the plain base.
A 4 week comparison in 36 people aged 60 to 80 with dry skin, each grade applied to a different patch of leg.
A double blind randomized controlled trial in 36 nursing home residents aged 60 to 80 with dry skin applied low molecular weight HA, high molecular weight HA, or vehicle to separate leg sites for 4 weeks.
Skin capacitance was higher for the low molecular weight arm than for the high molecular weight arm (56.37 vs 52.37 AU, p = 0.004) and than vehicle (56.37 vs 49.01 AU, p < 0.001).
What won't it do?
Large hyaluronic acid won't plump deep skin.
The large size did not get past the outermost layer in imaging of human skin, so it is working at the surface, not deep down.
A study that photographed a cross section of human skin to see how far each size travelled.
Directly contradicted: 1000 to 1400 kDa HA was impermeable to the stratum corneum in Raman imaging of human skin.
It won't repair the barrier.
In the same 4 week comparison the amount of water escaping through skin did not change in any group, even though surface water did.
The same 4 week leg comparison, reading the standard barrier measure next to hydration.
In the 4 week RCT, no group (low MW, high MW, or vehicle) showed a significant difference in transepidermal water loss, the standard barrier integrity measure, despite the significant hydration difference.
A serum won't work like a filler.
Filler results come from injections, and that is how HA is mostly used in that setting, so a serum smoothed on top is a different thing.
Read from the safety review's note on how HA is actually used, and from a cosmetic study that used a serum only alongside another procedure.
The filler evidence base is injection based; CIR notes widespread clinical use of HA is primarily by injection.
Holding 1000 times its weight in water doesn't mean far better moisture.
The 1000 times figure is water binding measured outside skin. On skin, the measured gain over the plain base at 4 weeks was a small hydration difference.
No source here carried that ratio over to a skin measurement.
The water binding figure is not a measured skin outcome in any source consulted here.
Citations
- 1Essendoubi M, Gobinet C, Reynaud R, Angiboust JF, Manfait M, Piot O. Human skin penetration of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights as probed by Raman spectroscopy. Skin Res Technol. 2016;22(1):55-62.DOI 10.1111/srt.12228PMID 25877232
- 2Muhammad P, Novianto E, Setyorini M, Legiawati L, Yusharyahya SN, Menaldi SL, Budianti WK. Effectiveness of topical hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights in xerosis cutis treatment in elderly: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Arch Dermatol Res. 2024;316(6):329.DOI 10.1007/s00403-024-03003-2PMID 38829483
- 3Becker LC, Bergfeld WF, Belsito DV, Klaassen CD, Marks JG Jr, Shank RC, Slaga TJ, Snyder PW; Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Final report of the safety assessment of hyaluronic acid, potassium hyaluronate, and sodium hyaluronate. Int J Toxicol. 2009;28(4 Suppl):5-67.DOI 10.1177/1091581809337738PMID 19636067
What each point on this page rests on, with full citations.