Hyaluronic acid is like the kombucha of the beauty world. It’s been around for yonks and it’s really good for you, but we’ve only just started talking about it. Hyaluronic acid, or HA as it is sometimes abbreviated, has probably been on the ingredients list of your skincare products for years but it’s only recently been proclaimed as the miracle molecule, stamped onto packaging and included in product names.

Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the body, lubricating our eyeballs and joints, and as such it is able to carry up to 1,000 times its weight in water… Which makes it especially good at moisturising. Only recently has development of the molecule progressed to make it small enough to penetrate the skin, which is why it’s now being added to such a large array of skincare products. It plumps the skin, helping older skins that are losing moisture to appear more dewy and hydrated. And we love what hyaluronic acid is doing to our dry, dull, lacklustre complexions. For a quick punch of moisturising goodness, hyaluronic acid is best applied as a serum but for midday top-ups or to incorporate it into your makeup routine, we’ve assembled our pick of the hyaluronic best.

Susanne Kaufmann Hyaluron Serum, 30ml, £107, Liberty

F
orever fans of Susanne Kaufmann’s skincare line, our favourite hyaluronic serum is made from plant-based hyaluronic acid. Unlike many serums, this one is packed with the molecule, listing it first on the ingredients and indicating its high concentration. We love this silky, smooth but never clogging or heavy formula.

By Terry Hyaluronic Summer Bronzing Hydra-Veil, £45, Harrods

For a glowing, golden natural face tan, try By Terry’s Hydra-Veil. Apply a small amount to the face – and, of course, neck – for a matte, non-glittery bronzed boost for all skin tones that is as hydrating as it is glamorous.

Suqqu Creamy Glow Lipstick Moist in “Hyaku Daidai” coral, £27, Selfridges

We’re forever walking the lipstick tightrope between pigment and moisture – a pillar-box red lipstick is too drying while a sheer lip balm slides off our lips in minutes. Cue Suqqu
Creamy Glow Lipstick Moist, a balmy lipstick with staying power. We love this summery coral shade – exclusive to the UK – containing hyaluronic acid for a hydrating top-up with a zing.

Inika Certified Organic Liquid Foundation with Hyaluronic Acid, £29.50, Inika

This natural and vegan foundation from Inika is fortified with jojoba seed, aloe vera leaf, argan and rosehip oil, as well as, of course, hyaluronic acid. This lightweight foundation is packed with goodness and adds a radiant glow to the skin.