TikTok has played host to some weird and wonderful beauty trends in recent months. We've seen TikTokers whitening their teeth with purple shampoo, vacuuming their pores to extract ward off breakouts and even contouring with SPF. Just for the record, we wouldn't recommend any of the above. The latest TikTok beauty craze? Applying hyaluronic acidface serums to hair.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a skincare ingredient that's now firmly embedded in today's beauty lexicon. Most know it for its ability to hold moisture onto the surface - and in some cases deeper into the epidermis - of the skin. One particle of hyaluronic acid can hold up to one thousand times its weight in water. When it comes to hydration, this ingredient seriously packs a punch in skincare. But does the same principle apply when it comes to hair care?
Does applying hyaluronic acid serum to your hair really work?
One of the glorious things about TikTok is just how accessible it has made the expert opinions of both dermatologists and experts to the masses. @Dermdoctor- or, Dr Shah - has 11.6m followers. He's shot to TikTok fame for 'dueting' videos - that's providing a response to the original - with a no-nonsense approach.
Dr Shah makes a convincing case in this TikTok. One thing that @dermdoctor doesn't mention, though, is that you should be applying hyaluronic acid to damp or wet hair or alongside other ingredients that offer hydration. The hyaluronic acid needs to be able to pull moisture from either the dampness of the hair, or the other moisturising ingredients you'll use alongside it to have any real benefit.
But what do the rest of the dermatology jury on TikTok have to say? @dr.ljmaxfield and @skinbydrazi share their thoughts.
In the market for a new hyaluronic acid product? Here's our pick of hyaluronic acid serums and products for the skin and hair. Thank you, TikTok.
SHOP NOW: The Hyaluronic Acid Edit for Skin and Hair
1 of 5The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Hair Treatment
As usual, The Inkey List is one step ahead, having already launched a hair treatment with hyaluronic acid sitting front and centre. This has two different weights of hyaluronic acid, meaning deeper, more intense hydration.
Site review: "Very good for fine hair, use a little on the ends it gives volume without weighing down and leaves hair shiny."
2 of 5L'Oréal Elvive Hydra Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Re-plump and give your hair a new lease of life with L'Oréal's Moisture Plump Serum. The weightless formula gently coats the hair to hydrate and detangle. Apply on wet or dry hair whenever you're in need of some TLC.
Site review: "This stuff is amazing, I've been diagnosed with an underactive thyroid and my hair was like straw. This plumps it up and restores glossiness. I would highly recommend."
3 of 5Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Ultra Rich Hyaluronic Treatment Lotion
This leave-in conditioner combines hyaluronic acid with six fortifying oils. Expect not only hydration but also added smoothness and shine.
Site review: "This stuff smells amazing and makes my hair so soft."
4 of 5The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum
An affordable, no-frills hyaluronic acid serum that does an effective job at delivering hydration. The accessible price point makes you feel a tad less bad about putting it on your hair too if you're keen to hop on the TikTok craze.
Site review: "This serum is one of my most repurchased products from The Ordinary. The value is pretty good for the price, and it always leaves my skin feeling hydrated and plump. My favourite way to use this is on my damp face after a shower, before moisturising."
5 of 5Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum
With three weights of hyaluronic acid, this super hydrating serum instantly plumps dry or dehydrated-looking skin.
Our review: "A lightweight yet moisturising serum that sits comfortably under make-up. My skin felt instantly soothed, soft and hydrated after the first application. It's slightly scented, which may aggravate those who prefer to use fragrance-free skincare."