What should you know about hyaluronic acid for wrinkles?

Topical hyaluronic acid is a water-binding skincare ingredient. It can improve the feel of dry skin and make fine surface lines look less prominent while the skin remains hydrated. It does not replace sun protection or change the muscles that create expression lines.

Injectable hyaluronic acid filler is placed under selected lines or areas of volume loss. It can alter facial contours and may suit some static creases, while movement-related wrinkles may need a different approach. A medical consultation should consider skin type, facial anatomy, previous procedures, allergies, active infection and medicines that affect bleeding.

For skincare, patch-test a new product when appropriate, apply it as directed and use a moisturiser and broad sun protection. Stop if you develop persistent burning, swelling or a rash. For injections, choose a qualified medical practitioner and ask which product, depth and treatment area are planned, along with alternatives and follow-up.

After an injection, tenderness, redness, swelling or bruising can happen. Keep the area clean, avoid rubbing or pressing it unless instructed, and follow the clinic's advice while it settles. Do not expect the same result from a topical serum and a filler injection.

Contact the clinic promptly for worsening pain, spreading redness, warmth, drainage or fever after an injection. Seek urgent help for vision changes, severe headache, unusual skin colour change, weakness, trouble speaking or rapidly increasing pain. A severe reaction to a topical product with facial swelling or breathing difficulty also needs urgent care.

Ask whether your wrinkles are mainly caused by dryness, expression, sun-related texture or volume change; which option addresses that cause; and what aftercare and warning symptoms apply. Ask how the result will be reviewed.