Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in skin that holds water, keeping skin hydrated and plump. In skincare it is used topically as a hydrating ingredient, and it also appears in injectable dermal fillers, two quite different uses under the same name.
As a topical hydrating ingredient, hyaluronic acid has good support for improving skin hydration and the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness. As an injectable filler, it is well established in aesthetic medicine for volume, and is a medical procedure rather than a skincare step.
Topical use is very low risk and well tolerated. Injectable filler use carries the risks of any injectable procedure (bruising, infection, and rarely, more serious vascular complications) and should be performed by a trained, qualified practitioner.
Topical hyaluronic acid needs no medical oversight for most people. For injectable fillers, use only a trained, insured medical practitioner, and discuss any history of allergic reactions or immune conditions beforehand.
Topical serums are moderately priced; injectable filler treatments are priced per session and considerably more expensive.
Dermatology research on topical hyaluronic acid hydration. Aesthetic medicine literature on hyaluronic fillers. Educational information only.