Index
- Introduction
- What is hyaluronic acid and what is its function in the skin?
- Main myths about hyaluronic acid in facial aesthetics
- 1. Hyaluronic acid deforms the face
- 2. It is a treatment exclusively for older people
- 3. It can cause allergies or serious reactions
- 4. It has permanent effects
- Hyaluronic acid: scientific truths you should know
- 1. High affinity with the skin
- 2. Stimulates cell regeneration
- 3. Personalized results
- 4. Can be combined with other regenerative treatments
- Types of facial treatments that use hyaluronic acid
- Who are ideal candidates for hyaluronic acid?
- Hyaluronic acid and sensitive skin: key recommendations
- Side effects, risks, and aftercare
- Possible side effects
- Rare risks
- Aftercare
- Conclusion
- Frequently asked questions
Introduction
Hyaluronic acid has established itself as one of the most widely used active ingredients in aesthetic medicine and skincare due to its powerful ability to hydrate, plump, and improve skin texture. However, its growing popularity has also given rise to a number of misconceptions and false beliefs that can lead to unrealistic expectations or ill-informed decisions.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive and professional overview of what hyaluronic acid actually does, debunking common myths and clearly explaining its benefits, risks, and most effective applications.
What is hyaluronic acid and what is its function in the skin?
Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide molecule that occurs naturally in the human body, especially in the skin, connective tissue, and joints. Its main function is to retain water, acting as a “reservoir” of moisture in the skin.
Each molecule of hyaluronic acid can retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent moisturizing agent. Over time, the natural production of this substance decreases, causing dehydration, loss of elasticity, wrinkles, and sagging.
Thanks to its molecular structure, it can be applied in different ways:
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- Topical (serums, creams)
- Injectable (dermal fillers)
- Mesotherapy (superficial microinjections)
- Combined with technologies such as microneedling or exosomes
Main myths about hyaluronic acid in facial aesthetics
1. “Hyaluronic acid distorts the face.”
FALSE. This myth arises from excessive or improper application by unqualified personnel. When used correctly, hyaluronic acid offers natural results, restoring lost volume without exaggeration.
2. “It is a treatment exclusively for older people.”
This is also untrue. Although it has traditionally been associated with mature skin, its preventive use is now recognized from the age of 25, when collagen and water production in the skin begins to decline. Even young people use it to prevent wrinkles and keep their skin firm and hydrated.
3. “It can cause allergies or serious reactions.”
FALSE. The hyaluronic acid used in aesthetics is biotechnological in origin and not derived from animals, which minimizes the risk of allergies. It is a biocompatible and non-immunogenic substance. Adverse reactions are extremely rare.
4. “It has permanent effects.”
False. One of the advantages of hyaluronic acid is that it degrades naturally over time. Depending on the type of product and the area treated, its effect can last between 6 and 18 months.
Hyaluronic acid: scientific facts you should know
Now that we have debunked some myths, it is essential to understand why hyaluronic acid is so highly valued by dermatologists and facial aesthetics specialists.
1. High affinity with the skin
Its chemical structure is practically identical to that produced by the human body, which facilitates its natural integration without altering the skin’s balance.
2. Stimulates cell regeneration
Although it does not stimulate collagen directly like other active ingredients, by maintaining optimal hydration of the extracellular matrix, it promotes an ideal environment for cell renewal and collagen and elastin synthesis.
3. Personalized results
Its application is highly customizable. It can be used to fill fine lines, define contours, deeply hydrate, or even reduce dark circles.
4. Can be combined with other regenerative treatments
One of the most innovative approaches is microneedling with exosomes and hyaluronic acid, a technique that not only rehydrates the skin but also activates cell regeneration mechanisms. You can read more about this powerful combination in this article on microneedling with exosomes.
Types of facial treatments that use hyaluronic acid
Depending on your aesthetic needs and skin type, there are different ways to incorporate hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine or facial treatment:
| Type of treatment | Application | Duration of effect | Main objective |
| Injectable dermal filler | Deep in the dermis | 6 to 18 months | Wrinkle filling, facial volume |
| Mesotherapy | Superficial microinjections | 3 to 6 months | Deep hydration and revitalization |
| Serums or topical creams | Daily application at home | Requires continuous use | Hydration and texture improvement |
| Combined with microneedling | Aesthetic clinic, monthly sessions | Cumulative results | Rejuvenation, firmness, and tone |
Table 1. Types of facial treatments that use hyaluronic acid.
Each method has its specific function, and ideally, a specialist should determine which one is best for you.
Who are ideal candidates for hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid treatments are safe for most people, but some profiles may benefit more, especially those with:
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- Chronic dehydration or loss of radiance
- Fine or moderate wrinkles
- Loss of facial volume (cheeks, chin, lips)
- Pronounced or sunken dark circles
- Dull tone or sun-damaged skin
It is also useful in young patients with active lifestyles, exposure to harsh environmental factors, or stress, who wish to maintain firm, hydrated, and healthy-looking skin.
Hyaluronic acid and sensitive skin: key recommendations
The use of hyaluronic acid on sensitive or sensitized skin can be very beneficial if done correctly. These skin types require special care to avoid inflammation, irritation, or imbalances.
Some key tips:
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- Use low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, which penetrates better without saturating the surface.
- Avoid formulas with fragrances, alcohols, or parabens.
- Consult a specialist to assess whether a topical or injectable presentation is best.
- Combine them with soothing active ingredients such as allantoin, centella asiatica, or panthenol.
To learn more about how to identify if you have sensitive or sensitized skin and how to treat it correctly, we recommend reading this specialized guide on delicate skin types.
Side effects, risks, and aftercare
Although hyaluronic acid is a safe and widely used active ingredient, there are important considerations to ensure that the treatment is effective, comfortable, and free of complications. The success of its application depends not only on the product, but also on the experience of the professional, the clinical environment, and aftercare.
Possible side effects
In general, adverse effects are mild, temporary, and localized to the treated area. Some of the most common include:
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- Mild redness that disappears within a few hours.
- Slight inflammation or swelling, especially in areas with fillers (lips or cheekbones).
- Sensitivity to touch for 24 to 48 hours.
- Bruising from puncture of small blood vessels, more common in thin areas such as the eye contour.
Rare risks
In inexperienced hands or under unhygienic conditions, the procedure can present more serious complications:
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- Subcutaneous nodules due to poor application of the product.
- Infections if proper antiseptic measures are not followed.
- Vascular compression, a serious but rare event, when the filler obstructs a blood vessel.
For this reason, it is crucial to only go to certified clinics and specialized medical personnel, especially when it comes to dermal fillers or deep injection techniques.
Aftercare
To ensure a good recovery and long-lasting results, it is advisable to follow these guidelines:
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- Do not wear makeup or apply cosmetic products for at least 12 hours after the procedure.
- Avoid sun exposure, extreme heat, saunas, and intense exercise for 24 to 48 hours.
- Do not massage or press the treated area unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
- Sleep on your back the first night to avoid accidental pressure on your face.
- Stay well hydrated to enhance the effect of hyaluronic acid.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid has gone from being a promising laboratory discovery to becoming a versatile, effective, and scientifically validated tool in facial care. Its ability to retain water, restore volume, improve texture, and deliver natural results has positioned it as one of the pillars of modern aesthetics. Demystifying its supposed risks and exaggerations is key to making informed decisions. Far from being an invasive treatment, hyaluronic acid works in harmony with the body, respecting the biology of the skin and adapting to individual needs.
Whether in rejuvenation, prevention, or intensive hydration treatments, this active ingredient can transform the health and appearance of your skin with minimal intervention, provided it is applied responsibly and professionally.
Frequently asked questions
- Can hyaluronic acid be used if I have acne? Yes, but with caution. In cases of mild or controlled acne, hyaluronic acid is ideal for moisturizing without clogging pores. However, if there are active breakouts or inflammatory acne, it is best to opt for light serums and avoid injectable procedures until the skin is more stable. A dermatological evaluation is always recommended.
- Can hyaluronic acid be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding? In general, creams and serums containing hyaluronic acid are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, provided they do not contain potentially irritating ingredients. However, injectable treatments should be avoided as a preventive measure, as there are insufficient studies on their safety during this stage.
- Does hyaluronic acid eliminate wrinkles permanently? No. Hyaluronic acid temporarily smooths and fills wrinkles, but since it is a substance that the body reabsorbs, its effects last between six months and a year. To maintain the results, it is necessary to repeat the treatment as recommended by the specialist.
- What is the best age to start using hyaluronic acid? It depends on the objective. From the age of 25, it can be used for preventive purposes in the form of serums or light treatments. From the age of 35, many patients begin to use it in injectable treatments to restore volume and reduce wrinkles. The important thing is to personalize the treatment according to the condition of the skin.
- Can it be combined with other facial treatments? Yes, it is very common to combine hyaluronic acid with other procedures such as microneedling, radiofrequency, or pulsed light. These combinations enhance hydration, cell regeneration, and skin firmness, provided they are performed under professional supervision.
