SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier is now SkinCeuticals Multi-Glycan: What changed and why it matters
If you've been a loyal user of SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier, you may have wondered why it isn’t available any longer. The reason is the brand has rolled out a reformulated version—the new SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan Multi-Dimensional Volumizing Serum. The original H.A. Intensifier has been discontinued, and this next-generation formula is its replacement. So what's actually different, and is it worth making the switch?
We're breaking down everything you need to know, including what changed, what stayed the same and why it matters for your skin. In this blog, we'll discuss:
- What made SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier a customer favorite
- Why SkinCeuticals reformulated it
- What are glycans and why do they matter?
- What's new about the Multi-Glycan formula
- New formula vs. old formula: key differences
- Clinical results: what to expect
- How to use SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan
- Who is it best for?
What made SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier a customer favorite
SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier earned its bestseller status for a simple reason: it worked. Rather than just moisturizing the surface of the skin, it was formulated to amplify the skin's own hyaluronic acid levels from within, making it a go-to for addressing volume loss, fine lines and dehydration without relying solely on in-office treatments.
The new HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan builds directly on that foundation. Think of it not as a replacement, but as a meaningful upgrade—the same trusted core technology, significantly enhanced.
Why SkinCeuticals reformulated it
SkinCeuticals discontinued the original H.A. Intensifier to introduce a more advanced approach to skin volumizing. Rather than focusing exclusively on hyaluronic acid, the brand's research pointed to a broader opportunity: stimulating multiple elements of the skin’s connective tissue (specifically, glycosaminoglycans) for more comprehensive, multi-dimensional results. The new formula is the result of that innovation.
What are glycans and why do they matter?
To understand what makes this new formula different, it helps to know a bit about glycans. Glycosaminoglycans, or glycans for short, are naturally occurring compounds in the skin that play a critical role in maintaining structural volume, hydration and firmness. Hyaluronic acid is actually a type of glycan and it's just one of several that contribute to a plump, youthful-looking complexion.
The problem is that glycan levels decline with age, just like collagen and elastin. As this happens, skin begins to lose volume, definition and its ability to retain moisture efficiently. That's where the new formula comes in.
What's new about the Multi-Glycan formula
The biggest update to HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan is that the formula now goes beyond simply supporting hyaluronic acid levels—it actively works to boost levels of multiple types of glycans in the skin, addressing volume loss on a more comprehensive level.
Here's a closer look at what's new:
More Proxylane. The new formula contains 20% more Proxylane than the original, increasing the concentration to 12%. This patented ingredient is designed to support skin's firmness and density by helping stimulate the production of glycans and restore fullness to skin over time.
A new post-biotic ferment extract. The addition of 2% Lactobacillus/soybean ferment extract is one of the most significant changes in the reformulation. This innovative ingredient helps stimulate the production of additional glycans, naturally occurring components of the skin's matrix, to support structural volume and a more youthful appearance. The original formula did not include this ingredient.
Three forms of hyaluronic acid. The new formula retains 1.3% pure hyaluronic acid but now incorporates three distinct molecular weights, high, low and acetylated, for more comprehensive coverage. The addition of acetylated hyaluronic acid in particular is optimized for deeper penetration, allowing the formula to work at multiple layers of the skin, making it a great option for those seeking a hyaluronic acid serum for oily skin, dehydrated skin and mature skin.
Licorice root and purple rice extracts. These two ingredients work synergistically to inhibit the enzyme responsible for breaking down hyaluronic acid in the skin, helping to preserve the HA levels that the serum works to build. They're also responsible for the formula's signature light purple color.
A fresher, lighter texture. One of the most immediately noticeable differences is the feel. The new formula has a lighter, less viscous texture compared to the original while still delivering the same level of hydration and efficacy. For those who found the original formula slightly heavy or prone to pilling, skinceuticals ha intensifier multi-glycan reviews for the new formula suggest this is a welcome improvement.
New formula vs. old formula: key differences
Here's a quick side-by-side look at how the two formulas compare:
| Feature | H.A. Intensifier (Original) | HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan NEW |
|---|---|---|
| Hyaluronic Acid | 1.3% | 1.3% (high, low & acetylated) |
| Proxylane | 10% | 12% |
| Post-Biotic Ferment | Not included | 2% Lactobacillus/soybean ferment |
| Texture | Thicker | Lighter, fresher feel |
| Glycan Stimulation | Hyaluronic acid focused | Multi-glycan stimulation |
Clinical results: what to expect
The new formula was evaluated in a twelve-week clinical study with over eighty participants across diverse skin types and tones. The results are impressive and worth noting for anyone on the fence about adding this enhanced formula to their daily routine.
Immediately upon application, skin appeared visibly plumped and radiance was improved. Hydration levels were also boosted for 24 hours after the first use. After twelve weeks of consistent use, the study found that fine lines were visibly reduced, hyaluronic acid levels in the skin were amplified by 30% and glycan content increased by 28%.
In fact, more than 90% of participants reported improved skin smoothness, softness and evenness of tone. While 97% said their skin felt more supple and 95% agreed the formula did not pill on the skin.
LovelySkin customers who have made the switch echo these findings. As one reviewer put it, "I had liked and used the previous formula of HA Intensifier for years, and was initially uncertain about the new formula. I used the new formula for two weeks before I realized my skin actually is plumper and firmer."
How to use SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan
Apply four to six drops to the face and neck once or twice daily, after cleansing. In the morning, apply after a SkinCeuticals antioxidant serum, such as SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Serum, and before moisturizer and sunscreen.
For enhanced anti-aging results, SkinCeuticals recommends pairing it with SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Wrinkle Modulating Peptide Serum, the brand's wrinkle-modulating peptide serum, for a comprehensive approach to fine lines, volume and hydration.
Who is it best for?
The newly enhanced HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan is formulated for all skin types and tones, making it a versatile option for a wide range of skin care concerns. It's especially well-suited for those experiencing early to moderate volume loss, fine lines, dehydration or a general lack of firmness and radiance.
It's also physician-tested to complement dermal filler injections, making it an excellent at-home maintenance option for anyone who receives in-office filler treatments and wants to extend and optimize their results between appointments. For longtime fans of the original H.A. Intensifier, the verdict is clear: the new formula delivers everything you loved about the original—and then some. The added glycan-stimulating technology, lighter texture and improved clinical results make it a meaningful upgrade, not just a repackage.
Ready to try it for yourself? Shop SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan Multi-Dimensional Volumizing Serum at LovelySkin with free U.S. shipping.
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