Hyaluronic acid has become the beauty world's favorite buzzword, celebrated for its skin-plumping, ultra-hydrating powers that promise a dewy, youthful glow. A quick search at a popular beauty store for "hyaluronic acid" resulted in over 1,600 beauty products with this powerhouse ingredient. Store-bought jars of hyaluronic acid start at about $25. With this recipe you can make about 10-15x the amount of serum for the same price!
One molecule of hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Which means it keeps things super hydrated and helps give your skin and hair a plumped, healthy look. It's also gentle on sensitive skin and, when applied to your hair, can help reduce frizz and give you that glossy, swoon-worthy shine.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Skin
Deep Hydration
- Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture to the skin and holds it there. This leads to improved hydration, which helps the skin feel soft, plump, and smooth.
Plumping Effect
- By locking in moisture, it creates a plumping effect that helps to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful appearance.
Improved Skin Elasticity
- Consistent use can help maintain skin elasticity, leading to firmer, more resilient skin.
Reduced Appearance of Fine Lines
- Proper hydration minimizes the appearance of fine lines and dryness-induced wrinkles, resulting in smoother skin over time.
Lightweight & Non-Comedogenic
- Unlike heavier moisturizers, hyaluronic acid is lightweight and won’t clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Hair
Moisture Retention
- Hyaluronic acid helps draw moisture into the hair shaft, reducing dryness and brittleness and adding softness.
Reduced Frizz
- When hair is well-hydrated, it’s less prone to frizz. Hyaluronic acid’s moisture-boosting properties can help manage frizz, leaving hair smoother and more manageable.
Boosted Shine
- Hydrated hair reflects light better, giving it a natural, healthy shine.
Strengthening
- Moisturized hair is less prone to breakage, so by locking in moisture, hyaluronic acid can help reduce breakage and promote stronger hair over time.
Lightweight and Non-Greasy
- Since hyaluronic acid is so lightweight, it won't weigh hair down or leave it feeling greasy, making it suitable for all hair types.
Bonus: Great for All Types of Hair & Skin
Whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin—or any hair type—hyaluronic acid fits right in, offering hydration without causing irritation or greasiness.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Super Hydrating
- Say goodbye to dry patches and hello to dewy, soft skin!
Non-Greasy Formula
- It sinks in fast, so you’re not left feeling oily.
Affordable
- Making it yourself is way cheaper than store-bought serums.
- Store-bought jars of hyaluronic acid start at about $25. With this recipe you can make about 10-15x the amount of serum at the same cost!
Customizable
- You can tweak the formula, use your favorite essential oils, and even adjust the texture.
Low vs. High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid
I have seen hyaluronic acid serum recipes with low molecular weight and with high molecular weight hyaluronic acid. I prefer high molecular weight.
- Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid does penetrate the skin better however it has been linked to inflammation.
- High molecular weight hyaluronic acid has been shown to accelerate healing.
- Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
DIY Hyaluronic Acid Serum Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoons High Molecular Weight Cosmetic Grade Hyaluronic Acid Powder
- 1/4 teaspoons Leucidal Liquid SF Preservative
- 2 tablespoons Distilled Water or Rose Water
- 5-10 drops skin-friendly essential oils
- My favorites are Purification, Lavender, and Frankincense
- Get the best deal on essential oils & the latest promo code here
Directions:
- Mix all the ingredients in your 2 oz jar or dropper bottle
- Work quickly - the hyaluronic acid will clump up quickly. That's ok! Just work quickly and start shaking immediately.
- Close the lid on your container and shake vigorously.
- It will be a little clumpy. That's ok! The hyaluronic acid will absorb the water as it sits and will become a gel consistency.
Storage:
- 2 oz jar or dropper bottle
- Your hyaluronic acid serum will last for several months at room temperature with the addition of the Leucidal Liquid SF Preservative
How to Use Your Hyaluronic Acid Serum:
For Skin:
- Apply a couple of drops to clean, damp skin.
- Gently pat it in and follow up with your favorite moisturizer to lock in the hydration.
For Hair:
- Take a few drops of serum and massage it into the ends of damp hair. Avoid the roots unless you want a little extra hydration there.
- Style as usual, and enjoy your shiny, bouncy hair!