Can You Replace Hyaluronic Acid With Aloe Vera? Know Which One Is Best For You

With approaching summers, the main aim of skincare routine becomes to make the skin look hydrated, rather than appearing greasy and heavy. For skin's hydration, two most popular skincare actives include hyaluronic acid (HA) and aloe vera, but when it comes to deciding between these two, it is quite debatable. Talking about aloe vera replacing hyaluronic acid, let us delve into this topic to know more!

Hyaluronic acid - The most potent hydrating ingredient 

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture, holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This makes it ideal for keeping the skin plump, smooth and hydrated.

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Advantages of hyaluronic acid usage in summers -

• Deep skin hydration - The function of hyaluronic acid is to extract moisture from the environment to deal with dehydrated skin caused by sun's exposure.
• Lightweight in nature - When applied onto the skin, hyaluronic acid is quite light and gets absorbed quickly into the skin. This makes it a great agent for individuals possessing oily and combination skin.
• Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles - The signs of premature aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, get reduced with the regular usage of hyaluronic acid. When the skin is well-hydrated, it looks more firm and smooth too.
• Strengthened skin barrier - Hyaluronic acid is potent enough to strengthen the skin's protective barrier, reducing water loss.

However, hyaluronic acid works best in humid conditions. In dry climates, it may pull moisture from deeper skin layers, leading to dehydration unless sealed with a moisturizer.

Aloe vera - The nature's solution to soothe the skin

Aloe vera is a natural gel-based moisturizer rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. It provides an instant cooling effect, making it a summer favorite.

Advantages of aloe vera usage in summers -

• Relief from sunburn - Aloe vera is constituted of certain phytochemicals that aim to reduce skin redness and inflammation.
• Skin's hydration without any greasiness - Aloe vera is great for individuals possessing oily and acne-prone skin and also those with sensitive skin type.
• Acne-fighting properties - Aloe vera is naturally aided with antibacterial compounds that help to prevent acne and breakouts.
• Loaded with antioxidants - Aloe vera is potent enough to protect the skin from the damage caused by free radicals.

However, aloe vera doesn't penetrate as deeply as hyaluronic acid and may not provide long-lasting hydration.

Choosing the best ingredient for summers -

If your skin is very dry, hyaluronic acid may be the better choice for deeper hydration. But if your skin is oily, acne-prone, or sun-sensitive, aloe vera can be a lightweight, soothing alternative.

Replacing hyaluronic acid with aloe vera -

Aloe vera can temporarily hydrate and soothe, but it cannot fully replace hyaluronic acid's deep moisture-binding properties. The best approach is to use both! Apply hyaluronic acid first to hydrate, then follow with aloe vera for a soothing and cooling effect.

This summer, pick what suits your skin best and stay hydrated naturally!

(Dr. Ameesha Mahajan, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Founder, Eden Skin Clinic)

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