What is sodium hyaluronate in skincare?
Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid – the form most commonly used in cosmetic formulation. It is more stable, less prone to oxidation and has a smaller molecular size than pure hyaluronic acid.
That smaller size is the practical difference: sodium hyaluronate penetrates the upper epidermis rather than sitting entirely on the surface, so it hydrates within the skin as well as on it.
What skin concerns does sodium hyaluronate treat?
It relieves dehydration, tightness and flakiness in any skin type, and because it is weightless and non-comedogenic it suits oily and acne-prone skin that heavy creams would congest.
Well-hydrated cells sit plumper, which immediately softens fine lines and improves how light reflects off the face. It also makes retinoids and acids more comfortable to use alongside, by keeping the barrier supple.
What ingredients are best paired with sodium hyaluronate?
It draws water in but cannot hold it, so seal it with ceramides, squalane, shea butter or any decent moisturiser applied immediately after, ideally onto slightly damp skin.
It layers with essentially everything – vitamin C, niacinamide, retinoids, peptides, acids. In very dry air, always cover it with an occlusive so it draws moisture from the air rather than from deeper skin. Take our Skin Quiz.
What are clogged pores?
A clogged pore is a hair follicle blocked by a mix of sebum, dead skin cells and debris. Left open to the air the plug oxidises and darkens into a blackhead; sealed over by skin it becomes a whitehead or closed comedone.
Clogged pores are the starting point of nearly all acne – the microcomedone forms first, and inflammation follows only if bacteria and immune response get involved.
What causes clogged pores?
Excess sebum and abnormal keratinisation are the two mechanics. When the follicle lining sheds cells faster than they can clear, they bind with oil and form a plug.
Comedogenic products (heavy oils, some silicones and waxes), thick makeup worn for long stretches, humidity, sweat left on the skin, hormonal shifts and insufficient cleansing all contribute. So does over-cleansing, which damages the barrier and drives oil production up.
What ingredients are best for clogged pores?
Salicylic acid is the first choice because it is oil-soluble and works inside the pore rather than just on the surface. Glycolic and lactic acid clear the surface layer, and clay masks absorb excess oil weekly.
Retinoids are the most effective long-term fix, because they change how the follicle sheds in the first place. Add niacinamide to regulate sebum and keep the barrier intact, and switch to non-comedogenic, lightweight hydrators. Take our Skin Quiz to find products that will not re-clog you.
