Today the ingredient focus is on hyaluronic acid (HA). This is a compound found naturally in our bodies. Its basic function is to lubricate, provide moisture, and cushion our connective tissue. What areas need the help that hyaluronic acid offers? Our eyes use it to stay lubricated. Our joints use a lot of hyaluronic acid, not only for lubrication, but also as a cushion for shock absorption from everyday activity. And finally, HA is key to the body’s ability to moisturize, especially as it relates to skin. It gives skin that plump, dewy quality that screams youth. As we age, our body produces less and less HA, especially after age 40.
The good news is that there are several ways we can help our bodies create and supplement their stores of hyaluronic acid.
We can start by providing the building blocks used to create hyaluronic acid. Foods that help the body created HA include: soy containing foods, red wine, and red grape juice. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in stimulating HA production – so citrus fruits – oranges, limes, lemons, grapefruits; green, red, yellow and orange peppers; as well as parsley and cilantro, are all important players in a diet targeting hyaluronic acid production.
Supplements containing HA are also available. These are generally made from rooster combs or fermented bacteria. While reports have been positive regarding ingestion of these supplements, remember to purchase supplements from reliable sources and from the manufacturer, if possible.
If you don’t want to go with dramatic changes – hyaluronic acid is also very effective when used topically, try it for yourself and see the results from Lifeline’s ProPlus Eye Firming Complex. HA molecules penetrate the dead skin cell layer and are easily absorbed into the skin. Once there, it increases hydration and improves elasticity, helping to firm, tone and lift. As a bonus, HA works with every skin type. If you have oily skin, just use it alone. But since HA works well with other products, you can use it before your moisturizer if you have dry skin, as well as with other topical skin remedies like acne creams or sunscreens.