SKINCARE DIARIES: Hyaluronic Acid Is a Glorified Scam. Here’s Why You Don’t Need It

As someone uber obsessed with skincare, I'd shout to the top of my lungs why one would need a hyaluronic acid serum incorporated into their skincare routine. Backing my theories up were loads of scientists, dermatologists and skininfluencers that could speak to the many benefits of the buzzy ingredients. However, it turns out we overly glorified it and that you don't need hyaluronic acid.

The tea is that HA is naturally found in the skin, which is why it's well tolerated and regarded for many skin types across the board. In short, the ingredient is a "humectant," so it attracts natural moisture from the environment and locks into the skin. Beauty enthusiasts and writers who've done the research will tell you this helps calm many of the environmental stressors our skin takes on — especially when you're not in your natural-born climate.

If you're still following us, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereen Idriss' viral " Beauty Products We Do Not Need" video zoomed in on "dedicated hyaluronic acid serums," leaving everyone in a state of genuine confusion — but wanting to know more.

@shereeneidriss No, no, no, no #skintok #dermdoctor #beautytips #facescrub #makeupwipes #hyaluronicacid #collagen #pillowtalkderm #shereeneidriss @shereeneidriss #singingtexttospeech ♬ Game Show - The Burnsland Orchestra

When asked the golden question, "Why is HA sh-t?" Dr. Idriss responded, "It's in every product on the market." The short form of it all is that HA is not doing what we thought it was marketed to do: Plumping, volumizing or even anti-aging.

It's just doing just enough, which in theory is a waste of money if you're happy with your current skin.

@shereeneidriss Reply to @crypticmuch Tip: Read the ingredient lists - we don’t need more of it ?‍♀️ @shereeneidriss #skintok #dermatologist #hyaluronicacid #skincaretips #pillowtalkderm #shereeneidriss ♬ About Damn Time - Lizzo

Click here to view full gallery at Hypebae