Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is a natural biopolymer and polysaccharide present in the body. It is a key component of the skin, connective tissue, and synovial fluid, where it works together with collagen and elastin.

Its unique feature is its ability to bind water, making it a powerful humectant. Hyaluronic acid:

• intensely moisturizes the skin,

• improves the density, smoothness, firmness, and elasticity of the skin,

• has anti-aging effects, firming the skin and visibly reducing wrinkles,

• has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,

• forms a protective barrier on the skin,

• supports skin regeneration and accelerates wound healing.

Its natural origin and biocompatibility make it a valuable and safe ingredient in cosmetics.

Hyaluronic acid occurs in several variants, which differ mainly in molecular weight and chemical structure. Due to the size of molecules, several basic forms of hyaluronic acid are distinguished:

• High molecular weight forms that create a protective barrier on the skin surface, effectively preventing water loss,

• Medium molecular weight forms that penetrate deeper due to smaller sizes, providing intensive hydration to the skin,

• Low molecular weight and ultralow molecular weight forms that work regeneratively from within,

• Triple hyaluronic acid, a combination of different molecule sizes, ensuring comprehensive action and optimal absorption by the skin.

Another classification, based on chemical structure, distinguishes further variants of this component. Non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid, with a looser structure, is used in mesotherapy and cosmetic products. On the other hand, partially crosslinked and fully crosslinked forms are much more durable—mainly used as fillers in aesthetic medicine procedures.

In cosmetic products, we often encounter derivatives of hyaluronic acid, such as sodium hyaluronate, potassium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, or acetylated sodium hyaluronate.

Hyaluronic acid is a versatile substance, valued for its ability to retain water, anti-inflammatory properties, and regenerative effects. It is widely used in medicine and cosmetology.

In cosmetics, hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient in creams and serums. The main effects of its action include:

• Intensive moisturizing and firming of the skin,
• Strong skin regeneration,
• Acceleration of wound healing,
• Alleviation of inflammatory conditions,
• Reduction of micro-damage to the skin.

In medicine, its applications include:

• Treatment of joint diseases (orthopedics),
• Moisturizing dry eyes (ophthalmology),
• Combatting intimate infections (gynecology),
• Support for anal disorders (proctology),
• Therapy for dental diseases (stomatology),
• Regeneration of vocal cords.

Cosmetics with hyaluronic acid, most commonly available as serums or elixirs, require proper application for maximum effectiveness. To fully harness their potential, apply them to lightly dampened skin, ideally after using a toner. This will allow the acid to be better absorbed and retain water, significantly increasing its moisturizing effects. Then, to retain moisture in the epidermis and strengthen the skin's protective barrier, apply your favorite cream. It will create an occlusive layer that effectively prevents moisture loss.

Hyaluronic acid is a versatile ingredient suitable for every skin type, including sensitive, combination, oily, or acne-prone skin. It is also exceptionally safe to use in combination with other active ingredients. You can confidently use it together with:

• vitamin C,

• niacinamide,

• retinol,

• panthenol,

• AHA acids,

• BHA acids.

If you are interested in making your own cosmetics, hyaluronic acid in powder form serves as an excellent base for them. You can precisely adjust such a product to the individual needs of your skin.

In aesthetic medicine, hyaluronic acid is widely used due to its versatility. Depending on the degree of cross-linking, it serves various functions. Cross-linked hyaluronic acid acts as an effective filler, helping to reduce wrinkles and fill folds, such as nasolabial folds. It also perfectly contours the face, restoring lost volume, particularly in the cheek area. Non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid is used in mesotherapy treatments.

Specific hyaluronic acid treatments, such as lip augmentation and tear trough correction, are also popular. Needle mesotherapy, using non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, is a way to hydrate and revitalize the skin. All of these procedures are performed by an experienced physician or esthetician, often using local anesthesia for maximum patient comfort. The effects are usually visible immediately: skin looks younger, is visibly refreshed, and gains healthy volume.

Numerous studies confirm that hyaluronic acid taken orally is effective. Regular intake significantly improves the condition of the skin, increasing its hydration and elasticity. Supplementation of this ingredient also supports joint health, providing better hydration and increased mobility.

After consumption, hyaluronic acid breaks down into smaller metabolites. The body effectively absorbs them and then uses them to build its own tissues.

When choosing a supplement with hyaluronic acid, always be cautious. Be sure to check the dose of the acid and its molecular weight. Make sure its effectiveness has been confirmed by reliable studies.

Cosmetics with hyaluronic acid are usually safe and rarely cause allergic reactions. However, in the case of injectable treatments, there are certain contraindications, which include:

• pregnancy,

• breastfeeding,

• autoimmune diseases,

• active skin infections,

• cancer.

After treatments with hyaluronic acid, mild adverse reactions may occur, which usually resolve spontaneously within a few days. These include:

• pain,

• burning sensation,

• itching,

• swelling,

• redness,

• bruising at the injection site.

Serious complications are rare, and if needed, the administered product can be quickly dissolved using hyaluronidase enzyme. Importantly, the recovery period after treatments with hyaluronic acid is very short, and this ingredient does not cause sun sensitivity.