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Hyaluronic Acid

What Hyaluronic Acid is & what it does

A large-molecule humectant that holds many times its weight in water, forming a hydrating film on the skin surface for an immediate plumping, smoothing effect. It is well tolerated and a staple of hydrating formulas.

What is Hyaluronic Acid and what does it do in sunscreen?

Hyaluronic Acid is a humectant, a large molecule that holds many times its weight in water and forms a hydrating film on the skin surface. In a sunscreen it adds lightweight hydration and a smooth, plumped feel without greasiness, which helps the product sit comfortably under or instead of moisturizer. It is well tolerated and a staple of hydrating formulas.

Is Hyaluronic Acid safe?

Yes. It is one of the most widely used and best-tolerated hydrating ingredients in skincare. The body makes hyaluronic acid naturally, and the cosmetic version is well studied and gentle, suitable even for sensitive skin. It works on the surface to draw and hold water.

Does Hyaluronic Acid clog pores?

No. It is a water-binding humectant with no oil or wax, and it is not flagged as comedogenic in our data. It is commonly recommended for acne-prone and oily skin precisely because it hydrates without heaviness. It will not block pores.

Is Hyaluronic Acid fungal-acne safe?

Yes. Hyaluronic Acid is a water-binding humectant with no fatty components for malassezia yeast to feed on, so it is considered fungal-acne friendly. It is one of the safer hydrating choices for people prone to fungal acne. The texture of the rest of the formula matters more than this ingredient.

What else is Hyaluronic Acid called?

On a label it appears as "Hyaluronic Acid," and you may also see related forms like Sodium Hyaluronate, its salt, which behaves similarly. It is sometimes shortened to HA in marketing. All are humectants that bind water to the skin surface.

Sunscreens with Hyaluronic Acid

We rate 432 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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