Hyaluronic acid is a natural carbohydrate produced by the cells in our body, and it is highly moisturizing. It is obtained by bio-fermentation, a process using lactic acid bacteria, and then collected, purified, and dehydrated to form a powder. Hyaluronic acid is of natural origin, has a good environmental profile, and is biodegradable. It is used in cosmetics to fill in wrinkles and to optimize its performance in cosmetics, it is used in a fragmented form. Hyaluronic acid can be found in cosmetic products under the names HYALURONIC ACID, HYDROLYZED HYALURONIC ACID, or SODIUM HYALURONATE.
Here are some positive aspects of hyaluronic acid:
- It is highly moisturizing.
- It can bind up to 1000 times its own weight in water.
- It hydrates and plumps the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- It works particularly well in a serum or sheet mask due to its low molecular weight.
Here are some negative aspects of hyaluronic acid:
- Ultra-low-molecular-weight-HA (<50kDa) is a controversial ingredient and might work as a pro-inflammatory signal molecule.
- Oral supplements that purport to hydrate by ingested hyaluronic acid don’t have much valid science behind them.
Here are some ingredients or materials that can be found in hyaluronic acid products:
- Sodium Lactate
- Sodium PCA
- Glycerin
- Sorbitol
- Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
- Xanthan Gum
- Phenoxyethanol
- Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
- Ethylhexylglycerin
