This Rx-Only Wound Cream Is Like Your Daily Moisturizer on Steroids

The quest for a hydrated, glowing complexion is a fairly universal skin care goal (is anyone naturally blessed with skin free from acne, dryness, or other kinds of inflammation?). Unfortunately, not every product that promises to calm, smooth, and nourish the skin is able to deliver those benefits, especially for those on the more sensitive side of the skin spectrum. But a prescription wound-healing cream, HyalO4Care, has dermatologists and plastic surgeons buzzing thanks to its intensive hydrating properties. Which is why some are prescribing it off-label as a daily moisturizer.

At first glance, a wound dressing might not seem like your next go-to product for clear, moisturized skin, but that’s exactly what’s happening in doctors’ offices across the country. “I’ve been loving this product for years,” says Bradley Glodny, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “I use HyalO4Care in many ways for both general dermatological considerations as well as cosmetic. But the best and most common way I used this product is as an insanely efficient moisturizer.”

As with any medical product that’s used off-label, it’s important to understand how exactly it functions, and in this case, why it might be worth obtaining a prescription. We spoke with three leading dermatologists who have prescribed the cream to their patients to learn why the trusted after-care cream for cuts, abrasions, post-operative incisions, and general skin irritation might be a new game-changing moisturizer.

What Is HyalO4Care?

Although it’s currently attracting attention as a moisturizer, HyalO4Care was originally formulated to regenerate tissue for skin lesions and acute or chronic wounds. “Hyalo4 is commonly prescribed for post-procedure care such as laser treatments and chemical peels,” says Dendy Engelman, M.D. a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at the Shafer Clinic in N.Y.C. She added that it can also be prescribed to manage chronic sensitive skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis. “Its primary function is to provide hydration and promote skin repair,” she says. But the most important thing to note about HyalO4Care is that its main ingredient is hyaluronic acid. This well-researched humectant ingredient binds to and retains water in the skin to increase hydration.

How Does HyalO4Care Work?

Hyaluronic acid appears in almost every over-the-counter moisturizer sold today, but the HyalO4Care formula utilizes nanotechnology to increase its absorption capabilities. “Hyalo4Care consists of small particles of hyaluronic acid allowing it to effectively penetrate the outer skin layers to act as an extremely effective humectant,” Dr. Glodny explains. “[It] then draws in moisture [to keep] your skin well hydrated without having to use a very heavy occlusive moisturizer.” This is particularly beneficial for anyone who dislikes the feeling of a thick formula on the skin, or who might want to avoid products that clog the pores.

Kimberly Lee, M.D., a board-certified facial and reconstructive plastic surgeon, notes that the hyaluronic acid in Hyalo4Care has anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe irritated skin and promote tissue regeneration, making it ideal for anyone struggling with skin sensitivity.

Dr. Engelman adds that Hyalo4 also contains silver sulfadiazine (SSD), which helps prevent microbial contamination and allows the hyaluronic acid to penetrate even deeper into the skin than it would on its own. Along with the additional vitamins, peptides, and antioxidants, you’re left with a highly effective moisturizer with an elegant texture—zero greasy or sticky finish.

Who Can Use HyalO4Care?

While it’s tempting to race to your dermatologist to try out any buzzy skin care product, Dr. Lee cautions anyone with “normal” or unproblematic skin from using HyalO4Care, noting that it may not be worth the cost of obtaining a prescription. “There are other high-quality, over-the-counter products that have hyaluronic acid [to] maintain healthy, hydrated skin without the need for a prescription,” she says. However, suppose you’re struggling with particularly dry skin or dealing with any kind of inflammation, from acne scars to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or you’re undergoing a series of in-office treatments like a chemical peel or ablative lasers. In that case, it’s worth asking for a prescription to speed up your healing process and boost your skin hydration.

Are There Any Risks to HyalO4Care?

Apart from the additional cost, there are no serious risks to using this product as a moisturizer. “It is generally safe for all skin types and tones, however, there are other factors that should be taken into consideration such as allergies and sensitivities,” says Dr. Lee. “It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider to evaluate whether this is an appropriate product for your skin care needs.” The worst a doctor can say is no. But if you get the prescription, luminous, supple skin might be a lot closer than you think.