Hyaluronic Acid Could Be the Solution to Your Dry, Brittle Hair

Dry, brittle hair is no fun, which is partly why we spend so much time looking for moisture-boosting masks and shine serums. However, it can become demoralizing when nothing you try works. In cases like those, try looking to your skincare heroes for tips on how to care for your hair. Case in point: hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic acid is touted as an MVP in the skincare world for being able to absorb up to 1,000 times its weight in water, therefore helping the skin absorb and retain hydrating ingredients to keep it healthy. Well, it turns out that it does the same for hair.

"It hydrates the cuticle when applied to hair," explains Caroline Robinson, MD, a Chicago-based dermatologist. "Adding hyaluronic acid into your hair routine, especially hair that tends to be drier, creates softer strands and controls frizz."

RELATED: Hyaluronic Acid Is The Anti-Aging Ingredient You Need For Glowing Skin

In addition to that, a study found that there was "as much as a tenfold increase in bound hyaluronic acid on hair after water rinsing," which led to an increase in moisture in both the hair and scalp. "When the scalp is healthy, hair growth will improve, which creates a fuller, healthier head of hair," adds Dr. Robinson. Remember, scalp health is hair health.

While people with all hair types can benefit from hyaluronic acid-infused hair products, Dr. Robinson says it's those with dry and damaged hair who are the ones who will benefit the most as "these hair types have a more difficult time retaining water."

The best way to reap the benefits of hyaluronic acid haircare starts in the shower. Dr. Robinson recommends using Neutrogena's Healthy Scalp Hydro Boost Shampoo ($9, amazon.com) and Conditioner, ($9, amazon.com) as they "boost scalp's hydration level, moisturize hair, are gentle enough for daily care, and will not strip strands." If you have extra-dry or damaged hair, she says to incorporate leave-in products for an added boost of hydration. We like Kérastase Chronologiste Leave-In Treatment ($52, kerastase-usa.com) as it protects hair from heat styling products and binds in moisture.