The Difference Between Expensive and Affordable Hyaluronic Acid Serums

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the human body that helps keep skin hydrated and plump. It can also be found in skincare products as a hero moisturising ingredient to improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

HA serums are popular in skincare because they provide intense hydration to the skin, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and youthful complexion. HA works by attracting water molecules to the skin, helping to plump and smooth the skin's surface. This can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the overall texture of the skin. HA serums are also lightweight and absorb quickly, making them ideal for all skin types. Additionally, they can be used in conjunction with other skincare products to enhance their effectiveness.

The Growth of Hyaluronic Acid Serums

The market for hyaluronic acid serums in skincare is rapidly growing, with increasing demand from consumers seeking effective anti-aging and hydrating skincare products. It is a product that can benefits almost all skin types.

HA serums are now widely available from various brands and at different price points. The market is also seeing a trend towards multi-functional products that offer additional benefits beyond hydration, such as brightening and firming. As the demand for effective and innovative skincare products continues to rise, the market for hyaluronic acid serums is expected to continue its growth trajectory.

growth of hyaluronic acid serums

The key difference lies within the serums formulation

When it comes to hyaluronic acid serums, you’ll be quick to notice that they can come a varying price points. You can find hyaluronic acid serums for under £10 in some stores, and others at a much higher cost.

Here are some of the key influences in price points:

Molecular Weight

Hyaluronic acid molecules come at different weights. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (LMW-HA) and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA) differ in their molecular size and weight.

LMW-HA has a smaller molecular size, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin and provide hydration at a cellular level.
HMW-HA, on the other hand, has a larger molecular size and forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface, preventing moisture loss.

The difference in effectiveness and benefits between LMW-HA and HMW-HA can affect their price points.

LMW-HA is considered more effective due to its ability to penetrate the skin and provide hydration at a deeper level. Therefore, serums that contain LMW-HA tend to be more expensive compared to those with HMW-HA. Additionally, the process of extracting and producing LMW-HA is more complex and expensive than HMW-HA, which can also contribute to the price difference.

However, it's important to note that the price of a product is not always an indicator of its effectiveness, and it's essential to consider other factors such as brand reputation and ingredients in the product before making a purchase.

Concentration

The concentration of hyaluronic acid in a serum can directly affect its effectiveness and price point. A higher concentration of hyaluronic acid generally means more hydration and improved skin texture, which can result in a more effective serum. However, higher concentrations of hyaluronic acid may also be more expensive due to the increased cost of production and formulation.

Serums with a lower concentration of hyaluronic acid may still provide some hydration and improve skin texture, but may not be as effective as serums with a higher concentration. Lower concentrations of hyaluronic acid are typically less expensive, making them a more affordable option for consumers.

Additional Ingredients

Hyaluronic acid is such a versatile ingredient that works well when combined with other skincare ingredients such as niacinamide, retinoids, vitamin C, and ceramides.

When a hyaluronic acid serum is formulated to target specific skincare concerns such as lack of radiance, you may notice that the hyaluronic acid would then be combined with ingredients like vitamin C. As a result, the serum would usually be at a higher price point.

Effectiveness of Affordable Hyaluronic Acid Serums

Are affordable hyaluronic acid serums affective?

Yes, affordable hyaluronic acid serums can still be effective. Although these serums are likely to contain a higher molecular weight and a smaller concentration of hyaluronic acid, they can still make a visible difference in plumping and hydrating the skin.

However, there are several affordable hyaluronic acid serums available that contain high-quality hyaluronic acid and are effective at hydrating and plumping the skin.

Choosing the right hyaluronic acid serum

You should consider all the above factors when selecting a hyaluronic acid serum that fits their individual skincare needs and budget. A more affordable serum does not necessarily mean that the formulation is bad. Likewise, expensive serums does not necessarily guarantee that they will be more effective than more affordable options. This is where you would consider the reputation of the brand.

If you are looking for a serum that has the ability to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin to plump fine lines and wrinkles, and obtain all the benefits of hyaluronic acid, search for a high-quality serum that can do this.

Recommendations

We have a wide range of some fo the best hyaluronic acid serums. Here are a few serums that are all well formulated:

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

A hydrating hyaluronic acid serum combined with 3 essential ceramides and vitamin B5 to repair and nourish the skin.

Avene Hyaluron Activ B3 Plumping Serum

A 1.5% hyaluronic acid serum that is formulated with both low and high weight molecules to target all layers of the skin. Paired with niacinamide to reduce signs of ageing.

Lancome Advanced Genifique Serum

A formula developed after 20 years of research. This powerful hyaluronic acid serum is combined with vitamin C and 7 pre- and probiotic derived extracts.