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No ingredient has a hold on the skincare market quite likehyaluronic acid.

Photo: Delmaine Donson/Getty Images
These days, youd be hard-pressed to find a product that doesnt have it in its formulation.
But what is hyaluronic acid exactly?
And why is it so commonly used?

But dont just take our word for it.
Below, the experts break down everything you’re gonna wanna know about this do-it-all ingredient.
Read on to see what makes hyaluronic acid such a staple in skincare.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is one of the mostif not the mostpopular skincare ingredients.
In cosmetic treatments, it is also most commonly found in temporary dermal fillers.

You want to ensure you are knowledgeable about what is being injected into your face, he says.
Have an injector with experience and a busy practice who has performed thousands of injectable treatments.
It can also contribute to the skins plumpness and elasticity and help reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Filler has similar hydrating properties while also adding volume and firmness to sagging and aging skin.
Dr. Shafer adds that filler can also be reversible if youre unhappy with the results.
This is the only category of filler that has an effective antidote, he says.

Its a game changer and an important safety consideration.
The Possible Side Effects
There are a few downsides to using hyaluronic acid topically.
She even recommends opting for other ingredients that have similar benefits.

And if youve experienced an allergic reaction to the ingredient, then its best to avoid it altogether.
Because of the popularity of hyaluronic acid, it is in almost every other product on the market.