Hyaluronic acid (HA) is one of the most popular skincare ingredients, thanks to its incredible ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. But even though it’s known for delivering hydration, many people aren’t using it correctly—and it could be why you’re not seeing the results you expect. Here’s why 95% of people are applying hyaluronic acid wrong, and how to fix it for maximum skin benefits.


1. Skipping Moisturiser After? You’re Missing a Key Step

What You’re Doing Wrong: Hyaluronic acid alone isn’t enough to keep your skin hydrated. Many people think applying an HA serum is the last step, but HA needs to be sealed in with a moisturizer. If you skip this step, the water it attracts can evaporate, leaving your skin feeling dry again.

How to Fix It: After applying HA to damp skin, follow up with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration. Choose a cream that works for your skin type—lighter for oily skin and richer for dry skin. This step will prevent the moisture from escaping and ensure long-lasting hydration.

2. Using Too Much Product? Less Is More

What You’re Doing Wrong: Some people use more hyaluronic acid than necessary, thinking that more products will mean more hydration. However, HA is highly effective in small amounts and using too much can leave your skin feeling sticky or even cause pilling under makeup.

How to Fix It: A few drops are all you need. Apply a thin layer of hyaluronic acid to your damp skin, then move on to the rest of your skincare routine. This will give you the right amount of hydration without the sticky residue.

3. Not Layering It Correctly? It’s All About the Order

What You’re Doing Wrong: Hyaluronic acid should be applied in the right order to work effectively. If you apply it after heavier products, like oils or thick creams, it won’t penetrate the skin properly and will sit on top, leaving your skin feeling tacky.

How to Fix It: Apply HA after cleansing, but before thicker serums, oils, and moisturisers. Think of it as a base layer for hydration, allowing other products to absorb better and work more efficiently.

5. Using It Without a Humidifier? Environmental Factors Matter

What You’re Doing Wrong: Hyaluronic acid works best in humid environments where it can pull moisture from the air into your skin. If you’re in a dry climate, HA may pull moisture from your skin instead of the air, potentially drying your skin out.

How to Fix It: If you live in a dry climate or spend a lot of time in air-conditioned or heated rooms, consider using a humidifier. This will create a moisture-rich environment, allowing your HA serum to do its job effectively. Alternatively, always ensure you’re applying it to damp skin and sealing it with a good moisturiser.


Hyaluronic acid is a powerful skincare ingredient, but only if you use it correctly. Apply it to damp skin, seal it with a moisturiser, and use the right amount in the proper order to get the full hydrating benefits. Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll be on your way to plumper, more hydrated skin in no time!