Topical hyaluronic acid typically comes in two forms: hyaluronic acid serum and hyaluronic acid cream. Hyaluronic acid serums tend to be lighter, while hyaluronic acid creams have a heavier consistency. The percentage of hyaluronic acid in a serum or cream varies by product, and many of those products have other skin-friendly ingredients added.

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the human body. It is known to hydrate and lubricate, and the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid in the human body are found in joint and eye fluids. It is necessary if heart valves are to function properly, and it also is necessary for the skin, which contains more than half of the body’s supply of the lubricant.

The body’s naturally occurring supply can be drained more quickly by exposure to viruses, too much riboflavin, and ultraviolet radiation. Hyaluronic acid also is known for its ability to bind moisture to skin and to regulate skin cell turnover. Thus, topical hyaluronic acid skincare products — both serums and creams — are shown to increase skin softness and elasticity.

Topical hyaluronic acid serums are generally vegetable glycerin-based or aloe-based, which accounts for their lighter texture. Topical hyaluronic acid creams are often oil-based, which accounts for the heavier consistency. Oils commonly used include jojoba, sunflower, and macadamia nut. The percentage of hyaluronic acid found in topical hyaluronic acid products can be as high as 65 percent, while others may have less than 15 percent hyaluronic acid. Added ingredients meant to further improve skin tone and texture include vitamin C, alpha lipoic acid and dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE).

Two different methods are used to create hyaluronic acid. One way is to grow it from bacteria in a laboratory, while the other is to extract it from cock's combs or chicken cartilage. Skincare products with bacteria-grown hyaluronic acid are often labeled vegetarian or vegan. Hyaluronic acid serums and creams labeled non-vegan frequently receive that tag because the cock's comb extraction method was used in its production.

Regardless of the type of topical hyaluronic acid product used, the benefits shown by applying hyaluronic acid preparations to one’s skin include improvement in skin elasticity, softness, and texture, and a decrease in fine lines. Research has shown that its benefits aren’t limited to the skin, however popular its use for that may be. It also has been shown to ease pain and, as a result, boost mobility in patients suffering from osteoarthritis, and its use in speeding wound healing and treating brain injuries also is under consideration.