You’ve probably seen it before on the back of your beauty products, but do you know the science behind this magical moisturizer known as hyaluronic acid?

Our body is composed of molecules like enzymes and proteins, but the major and key component of our bodies is simply water. Human beings are made up of 60% of this vital fluid. Essentially, water diffuses into the blood, it’s circulated towards the dermis, and then through the different cell layers of the epidermis before evaporating at the surface.

To preserve the water content, the skin acts as a waterproof cover thanks to its mechanical structure. The most external sublayer of the epidermis—called stratum corneum—is formed by layers of flat cells (corneocytes), which bound to each other through an intercellular lipidic cement. This cohesive structure forms a barrier ensuring partial waterproofing of the skin.

MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE

Moisturizing the skin is the basic mechanism to preserve water content and maintain smoothe skin and tone. When the skin is dehydrated, the balance between transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and the skins’ ability to retain water is disrupted, leading to skin discomfort. The lack of water within the skin also creates a visible negative appearance (dry, wrinkled skin).

GIVE YOUR SKIN A DRINK

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring molecule found in the body. Its main function is to retain water to keep your body lubricated, primarily around the eyes, connective tissues, and of course, the skin. But due to the effects of aging and certain environmental factors, your internal levels inevitably take a hit. Cue our holi(water) and holi(glow) ageless eye serum, two products that implement the highest quality of hyaluronic acid to give you next-level moisture and plumpness.

Here’s why this ingredient is the *holi* grail of skincare:

Our high molecular weight hyaluronic acid is a biomimetic polymer that forms a film at the surface of the epidermis. Its water retention ability comes from this “ball structure,” in which the main part of the water is mechanically captured, but not bound to the molecule. HA retains 1,000 times its weight in water. Its effects last for 24 hours.

Here are some of the benefits:

-Plumps the skin to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles

-Firms and tones

-Restores moisture and strengthens the integrity of the skin

-Revitalizes dull skin delivering a radiant glow

-Protects skin from harmful environmental pollutants

-Stimulates skin cell regeneration

-Minimizes pigmentation and prevents age spots

Now let’s get into how we source our hyaluronic acid and why quality is key.

If you are familiar with Agent Nateur and if you follow us on Instagram, you know first hand the intensity and passion we put into each and every product. Our range is made with the best quality ingredients. You’ll find HA in your standard mainstream beauty brands, but the form that we use has a higher molecular weight, which is critical. The larger the molecule, the more water it can carry, which naturally amounts to greater hydration. When our HA comes in contact with the skin, it forms a film that captures water and keeps it at the surface, almost like a reservoir. Not only is it actively bringing water into the skin, but it’s also preventing the expulsion of water that’s found deep in the dermis.

Hyaluronic acid also works its magic from the outside in and the inside out. Plus, the protective layer that’s formed lasts for up to 24 hours, which results in around-the-clock moisture and leaves your skin with a velvety, smooth-to-the-touch feeling.

It’s also important to note that we could source hyaluronic acid for 10% of our cost, but we purposely chose to spend more money to maintain high-quality ingredients for our customers. After all, that’s the DNA of Agent Nateur.

By Jena Covello and Amy Anisgarten