Is Neutrogena Hydro Boost good for aging skin?

What can it do for aging skin?

Skin becomes drier with age, and its natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it attracts and holds water. Applied to skin, it helps keep skin hydrated, flexible and supple.12

Topical hyaluronic acid has clinical support for improving hydration and some visible signs of aging. Expect a modest improvement in dryness and the look of wrinkles rather than a return to younger skin. General hyaluronic acid guidance suggests mild softening and a little more fullness after about a week; that is an ingredient expectation, not a Hydro Boost timetable.13

What should you look for in your moisturizer?

For dry skin, water retention matters as well as water attraction. Ingredients called occlusives help keep moisture from evaporating. Examples include petrolatum, mineral oil, shea butter and jojoba oil. Check your moisturizer's ingredient list for these rather than assuming a hyaluronic acid claim tells you everything about moisture retention. Follow the directions on your exact product for the amount and application.1

How should you use it?

1. 1Cleanse morning and evening with a mild cleanser and warm water. Avoid scrubbing, and gently pat dry.
2. 2Apply any medication or treatment after cleansing, following its directions.
3. 3Apply your Hydro Boost moisturizer according to its label. Use moisturizer every day rather than saving it for days when dryness becomes obvious.
4. 4Before going outdoors, apply sunscreen to exposed skin. Choose broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance.
5. 5Apply makeup afterwards, if you wear it.

Sun protection is the foundation of an aging skin routine because ultraviolet rays accelerate skin aging. Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and use protective clothing, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses. Moisturizer helps with water retention, but it cannot take over sunscreen's department.2

What if you already use aging skin treatments?

Retinol and glycolic acid can cause dryness and irritation. Hyaluronic acid can support hydration alongside these ingredients, but adding several aging skin products at once can irritate skin and make signs of aging more noticeable. Do not add more treatments to compensate for irritation. If you have concerns about your routine or how your skin is reacting, see a dermatologist.14