Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan — a long-chain sugar molecule — produced naturally by the body. It is found throughout the body, most abundantly in the skin, joints, and eyes, where its primary role is to retain moisture and maintain structural integrity. In skin, HA acts as a sponge, binding water to keep the dermis hydrated, plump, and elastic.

Production of hyaluronic acid in the body peaks in childhood and declines progressively with age. By your 40s, the skin retains significantly less moisture than it did at 20 — which is one of the key reasons skin loses volume, firmness, and the dewy quality associated with youth.

Not all hyaluronic acid in skincare is the same — the size of the HA molecule determines where in the skin it acts. High molecular weight HA (large molecules) sits on the surface of the skin, forming a film that prevents moisture evaporation and creates an instant plumping effect. It gives that immediate 'my skin looks better' result after application.

Low molecular weight HA (small fragments) can penetrate deeper into the epidermis and upper dermis, providing deeper, longer-lasting hydration. The best HA serums and moisturisers combine multiple molecular weights to hydrate at every level. NeoStrata's HA Serum uses this multi-weight approach.

There is an important distinction between topical hyaluronic acid in serums and creams, and hyaluronic acid used in dermal fillers. Topical HA hydrates the skin — it cannot replace lost facial volume. Injectable HA fillers are cross-linked (chemically bonded) to remain stable in tissue, where they physically restore volume, lift, and contour.

Both have their role. Topical HA maintains daily skin hydration and plumpness. Filler treatments at Star Aesthetic Centre replace volume loss in areas like the cheeks, lips, tear troughs, and jawline that topical products cannot reach. Dr Bangalee uses premium HA fillers selected for specific treatment areas.