Ingredient Glossary · H
INCI: Hyaluronic Acid / Sodium Hyaluronate
Hyaluronic acid is the standard moisturizing ingredient in skincare: It binds many times its own weight in water and instantly and visibly plumps up dry skin. To be honest: The effect is temporary—permanently "filled-in" wrinkles are a marketing promise, not a cosmetic reality.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule that occurs naturally in the skin, where it stores water. Its levels decrease with age. When applied topically, it acts as a humectant, binding water to the skin's surface. Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form: it is more stable and has a smaller molecular size, which is why it is most commonly found in serums.
Molecular sizes explained briefly: High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid remains on the surface, smoothing the skin and forming a moisturizing film. Low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid penetrates the upper layers of the skin and provides deeper hydration. Good serums combine several molecular weights.
Effects: What's Proven
It has been proven to provide an immediate, short-term increase in skin moisture levels and a visibly plumper complexion—dryness lines appear reduced as long as the moisture is present. There is no evidence of permanent wrinkle filling from serums or creams: once use is discontinued, the effect wears off. Four out of five bars: a reliable active ingredient with honest, but temporary, results.
Application & Combination
Apply to slightly damp skin and follow with a cream—it seals in the moisture. Hyaluronic acid fits into any routine, morning or night, and is compatible with virtually all active ingredients.
Good Combinations
✓ Retinol & exfoliants — helps prevent irritation
✓ Vitamin C & niacinamide — no interactions
✓ Polyglutamic acid — enhances moisture retention even further
Note
! In very dry air, without a moisturizer applied on top, hyaluronic acid can draw moisture out of the skin
! "Fills in wrinkles" is only temporary — not comparable to filler treatments
Hyaluronic Acid in the BONSANA Line
Right in the store
Hydration You Can See
Serums, essences, and creams with hyaluronic acid—available immediately and shipped from our Swiss warehouse.
Discover moisturizing care →Frequently Asked Questions About Hyaluronic Acid
Does hyaluronic acid permanently fill in wrinkles?
No. Serums and creams temporarily plump the skin as long as moisture remains locked in. The effect wears off when you stop using the product—this is not comparable to filler treatments.
High- or low-molecular weight—which is better?
Both serve their own purpose: high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid smooths the skin's surface and forms a moisturizing film, while low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid nourishes the upper layers of the skin. A combination of several molecular weights is ideal.
How do I apply hyaluronic acid correctly?
Apply it to slightly damp skin, then follow with a cream. Without a final layer of skincare, hyaluronic acid can actually draw moisture out of the skin in very dry environments.
What does "10%" mean on a hyaluronic acid serum?
This specification usually refers to a hyaluronic acid complex or solution, not to pure hyaluronic acid—which is used in significantly lower doses. The overall formulation is what matters.


