One of the most common skincare woes is enlarged pores. If you are looking for the ultimate solution to achieve smooth, seemingly poreless skin, you might be wondering if hyaluronic acid can help. Let’s discuss the role hyaluronic acid plays in skincare, and whether it can help reduce the appearance of pores. 

Different Pore Sizes

Before we talk about hyaluronic acid’s effects on pores, it’s important to understand why people have different pore sizes. Pore size is ultimately determined by genetics, just like skin type. Typically, if your skin is more oily, you are likely going to be more prone to larger pores. On the other hand, those with dry skin generally have less prominent pores. 

Pores can also start to appear larger as we age, especially in skin that has been chronically exposed to damaging UV rays from the sun. This is due to losing elasticity in the skin, which can make pores more noticeable. 

Now, here’s the bad news: you can’t actually shrink your pores. There’s a common misconception that you can open and close your pores, but there is little you can do to actually alter their size. There are some things that can help reduce theappearanceof your pores. This includes using targeted leave-on exfoliants and purifying masks to decongest the skin, and avoiding pore-clogging formulas. However, there aren’t topical products that can actually change the size of your pores. 

Purpose of Hyaluronic Acid in Skincare

Hyaluronic acid is frequently used in skincare formulas. You’ll often find it in moisturizers, face washes, and serums – including our  Hyaluronic Pure Boost Serum. 

The primary role hyaluronic acid plays in skincare is as a hydrator. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it pulls water to the skin and locks it in, increasing its overall hydration. In fact, it’s able to hold approximately 1000 times its weight in water. By boosting hydration levels, hyaluronic acid helps smooth and soften the skin, affecting both the overall look and feel of the complexion. Since it enhances the suppleness of the skin, it can also help soften the appearance of fine lines for a more youthful appearance. 

So, what does this all mean for your pores? Ultimately, topical hyaluronic acid isn’t going to directly change the size of your pores (because, as mentioned above, you unfortunately can’t shrink your pores!). That said, by plumping the skin, hyaluronic acid can help with texture issues. This may in turn make the pores look less prominent, and the complexion appear smoother. 

Hyaluronic Acid & Collagen Synthesis

Beyond its hydrating benefits and effects on texture, there are some additional ways in which hyaluronic acid may support the skin.

Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body, where it helps with moisture retention (in the skin, joints, eyes, and more), supports wound healing, and more. It works alongside collagen, which is responsible for skin structure and strong, healthy joints. Both hyaluronic acid and collagen levels naturally decrease as we age, leading to a loss in firmness, elasticity, and plumpness in the skin. 

Early research has indicated that using hyaluronic acid topically may help stimulate collagen production in the skin. By doing this, it may help counteract the natural decline of collagen as we age, supporting a youthful, firm complexion. Furthermore, injections of hyaluronic acid have been shown to boost collagen synthesis within the body. 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Additionally, hyaluronic acid is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown that, when used topically, this humectant can help reduce levels of inflammation in the skin while repairing wounds and supporting tissue repair. This means it may help promote a calmer and more comfortable complexion over time. It may also reduce redness in the skin. 

Importance of Product Formulation

While it may not have a dramatic effect on pore size, hyaluronic acid is a highly beneficial skincare ingredient that can support all skin types. If you’re thinking of adding a hyaluronic acid serum to your routine, it’s crucial that you pay close attention to the formula. 

First and foremost, you’ll want a serum that puts hyaluronic acid front and center. This means finding a product that includes hyaluronic acid (or sodium hyaluronate, which is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid and affects the skin in the same way) in the first few ingredients. Additionally, if you’re prone to clogged skin and enlarged pores, you’ll want to make sure you are choosing a formula that doesn’t contain ingredients that will congest the skin. 

For the ultimate hydrating solution that will help you achieve smooth, plump skin, take a look at the Hyaluronic Pure Boost Serum. This fragrance-free formula has a simple yet effective ingredients list that puts hyaluronic acid front and center, allowing it to do its best possible work. Designed to be gentle and suitable for all skin types, the lightweight formula deeply hydrates without contributing to clogged skin. With consistent use, you’ll be on the way to a supple, youthful complexion.