Hyaluronic Acid and the Sun: What You Absolutely Need to Know
Hyaluronic acid and the sun: find out the truth about their compatibility
Hyaluronic acid, a molecule naturally present in our body, plays a key role in hydration and volume of the skin. It is commonly used in aesthetic medicine to fill wrinkles, restore lost volume and improve facial contour. However, a recurring question arises: what is the compatibility between hyaluronic acid and the sun?
Key points to consider:
- Effects of UV rays : UV rays from the sun can degrade the injected hyaluronic acid, thus reducing its effectiveness and duration of action. Exposure to the sun can also cause redness, swelling or bruising, particularly after an injection.
- Precautions to take : after a hyaluronic acid injection, it is recommended to avoid direct exposure to the sun for at least 48 hours. Using sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50+), wearing a hat and sunglasses are essential measures to protect the treated area.
- Hydration : Drinking enough water helps maintain skin hydration and optimize the effects of hyaluronic acid .
The interaction between hyaluronic acid and the sun is complex but manageable with the right precautions. You can get the full benefits of your injections while enjoying the sun, as long as you follow these recommendations carefully."
Hyaluronic acid: what is it and how does it work?
Hyaluronic acid is a natural molecule present in our body, mainly in the skin, eyes and joints. Its main role? Ensure skin hydration and maintain its elasticity. Each hyaluronic acid molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a key component for plump, hydrated skin.
How hyaluronic acid works
Hyaluronic acid acts like a sponge, attracting and retaining water. This helps to:
- Deeply moisturize the skin
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Restore lost volume, especially to the cheeks and lips
- Improve overall skin texture
As we age, the amount of hyaluronic acid in our body decreases. This reduction leads to visible signs of aging such as wrinkles , loss of volume (or ptosis ), and less hydrated skin.
Aesthetic use
Hyaluronic acid injections have become very popular to combat these effects of aging. These injections allow:
- To fill in fine lines and wrinkles.
- To restore lost volume in certain areas of the face such as the cheeks or lips.
- Improve facial contour, including areas around eyes and mouth.
The results are immediate and can last between 6 to 18 months depending on the area treated and the product used.
Safety and precautions
The hyaluronic acid used for injections is often derived from plant sources and comes in a biodegradable gel form. This means that it is compatible with our body and does not pose major health risks when administered by a qualified professional.
However, it is crucial to take certain precautions before and after injections:
- Avoid exposure to the sun the day before and the same day of the session.
- Apply an SPF50+ sunscreen after the injections to protect the treated area from UV rays .
- Drink enough water to maximize the hydrating effect of hyaluronic acid.
Following these recommendations helps prolong the effects of the injections and minimizes the risk of side effects such as redness or swelling.
The complex compatibility between hyaluronic acid and the sun
Hyaluronic acid is widely used to rejuvenate facial features , but its interaction with the sun often raises questions. Understanding this compatibility is essential to maximizing the benefits of treatments while minimizing the risks.
Potential side effects of sun exposure
Hyaluronic acid injections are generally safe and effective, but sun exposure can cause some side effects:
- Redness : After an injection, the skin may be more sensitive. Exposure to the sun can make redness worse.
- Swelling : Heat and UV rays can accentuate post-injection swelling.
- Discoloration : The sun can cause hyperpigmentation around treated areas, especially if they are already prone to irritation.
Importance of sun protection
To protect your skin and prolong the results of hyaluronic acid injections, it is crucial to follow certain precautions:
- SPF 50+ sunscreen : Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect skin against UVA and UVB rays.
- Protective accessories : Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and covering clothing to minimize direct exposure to the sun.
- Avoid the sun for 48 hours after the injection : This period is critical to allow the skin to recover without additional stress.
Maintenance sessions and post-injection maintenance
Regular maintenance sessions are necessary to maintain the rejuvenating effects of hyaluronic acid. However, how you take care of your skin between these sessions plays an equally important role:
- Hydration : Drinking enough water helps maintain your skin's natural hydration, complementing the effects of hyaluronic acid.
- Avoid activities that increase body heat : Saunas, steam rooms and strenuous exercise can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment by increasing the metabolism of the injected product.
- No facial massage : Avoid facial massages or harsh cosmetic treatments for about a week after the injection.
Compatibility with other cosmetic products
Using cosmetic products compatible with hyaluronic acid injections can also help:
- Moisturizing serums : Opt for serums containing hyaluronic acid to enhance its hydrating effects.
- Soothing Creams : Use creams that contain soothing ingredients like aloe or chamomile to reduce any irritation.
- Kósmopellis Patch: Use Kósmopellis microneedle patches for intense hydration.
The judicious combination of these practices ensures not only effective protection against the sun but also a prolonged duration of the beneficial effects of your hyaluronic acid injections.
How to protect your skin and hyaluronic acid from sun damage
To maximize the beneficial effects of hyaluronic acid injections and protect your skin against UV rays , it is crucial to follow certain precautions. Exposure to the sun can reduce the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid, cause inflammation and accelerate skin aging. Here are some essential tips to preserve the quality of your treatment and the health of your skin:
Using sunscreen
Regular application of sunscreen is essential, especially after an injection of hyaluronic acid. Opt for a sunscreen with a high protection factor, ideally SPF50+ :
- Apply sunscreen generously to all treated areas.
- Reapply every two hours and after each swim or excessive sweating.
- Make sure the cream provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
Avoid the sun immediately after the injection
The first 48 hours following an injection are particularly critical:
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight during this period.
- Wear protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and use umbrellas or parasols to create shade.
Adequate hydration
Well-hydrated skin resists external aggressions better:
- Drink enough water throughout the day to maintain good skin hydration.
- Use moisturizers appropriate for your skin type to complement the benefits of hyaluronic acid injections.
Additional Precautions
Certain additional measures can help minimize risks:
- Avoid activities that increase body heat (saunas, steam rooms) for at least 10 days after treatment.
- Limit artificial tanning (UV) sessions until the skin is completely restored.
- Do not massage the treated areas for the first 48 hours after the injection.
By taking these precautions, you can not only prolong the aesthetic results of hyaluronic acid injections, but also effectively protect your skin from sun damage.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid, a molecule naturally present in our skin, is widely used in aesthetic medicine to fill wrinkles and restore lost volume. However, the compatibility between hyaluronic acid and the sun requires specific precautions to maximize results and avoid harmful effects.
To ensure the effectiveness of your hyaluronic acid injections and protect your skin:
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 48 hours after injection.
- Apply sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50+).
- Wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses when outdoors.
- Hydrate your skin regularly by drinking enough water.
It is important to understand that the effects of the sun on hyaluronic acid can reduce the duration of action of the treatment. Following these precautions after a hyaluronic acid injection not only prolongs the aesthetic benefits, but also preserves the general health of your skin.
By following these simple but essential tips, you will be able to take full advantage of the benefits of hyaluronic acid while minimizing the risks associated with sun exposure.