Hyaluronic acid has been the most popular skincare ingredient of the last 10 years. Advertisements describe it as "holding X times more moisture than a glass of water." This is true, but it's a half-truth.

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan, a natural component of the skin. It has a high capacity to bind water molecules; depending on its molecular weight, it can hold an average of 100-1000 times its weight in water.

What Most People Get Wrong

HA does NOT add WATER to the skin. It DRAWS existing water.

HA is like a moisture magnet. It draws moisture from the surroundings into the skin – this environment can be either the humidity in the air or water from the deeper layers of the skin.

Result of Incorrect Use

In a dry environment – for example, in heated rooms during winter or air-conditioned rooms during summer – someone who only applies HA serum can actually dry out their skin more by drawing water from the deeper layers of the skin to the surface.

Correct Use: 3 Rules

1. Apply to damp skin. After toner or thermal water, apply while the skin is still damp. If the skin is dry, HA will not find moisture to draw.

2. Always apply an emollient or occlusive over it. Cream is the most common option. Think of HA not as a moisture magnet, but as an intermediary layer that draws moisture into the skin and traps it under the cream.

3. Prefer products with multi-layered HA. Low, medium, and high molecular weight HA in the same formula – reaches different layers of the skin.

Structure of Maxel JU Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Maxel JU Hyaluronic Acid Serum contains HA in three different molecular weights. It also includes Panthenol, Centella Asiatica, and Pentavitin® (Saccharide Isomerate) – this combination ensures that HA works by "locking" existing water into the skin, rather than "drawing water out."

Conclusion

HA is a very capable moisture magnet, but it doesn't work alone. Correct layering + emollient on top + multiple molecular weights = true hydration.