More and more cosmetic products contain hyaluronic acid, as this substance is known for its moisturizing effect. The truth is that hyaluronic acid plays a more important role in the human organism, and reducing wrinkles is hardly significant compared to the rest.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic Acid (also known as HA, hyaluronate or hyaluronan) is a polysaccharide naturally present in the human organism. HA is used and synthesized in the human body and binds to water, giving it a viscous consistency. One of the most important roles of HA is lubricating joints (it’s found in the synovial fluid), muscles, and the eyes (in the vitreous humor) but also skin and cartilage. However, HA is present in almost every cell of the body.
How does hyaluronic acid benefit the body?
Most of HA is found in the skin, providing continuous moisture, thus helping maintain the skin’s health and beauty.
Thanks to its tissue friendliness, HA is a very efficient moisturizer, and as a result, it’s found in many cosmetic products. There are also injectable tissue fillers containing HA that are used to reduce wrinkles, add volume to lips, and improve the aspect of scars.
HA’s role in lubricating joints got plenty of scientific interest and as a result, it is successfully being used to treat osteoarthritis-related joint pain in the form of sodium hyaluronate.
High concentrations of hyaluronic acid are present in the vitreous humor, the transparent, viscous liquid surrounding the eyeball. As a result, HA is being used as a lubricant during eye surgery and in prescription eye drops.
HA also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects in periodontitis and plaque-induced gingivitis.
The key benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
- Moisturization: HA can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent moisturizer. When applied topically, it helps to hydrate the skin and maintain its moisture balance.
- Anti-Aging Properties: As we age, the natural production of HA in our skin decreases, leading to dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Using HA-containing products can help reduce the appearance of these signs of aging.
- Wound Healing: Some studies suggest that hyaluronic acid can help with wound healing by regulating inflammation levels and signaling the body to build more blood vessels in the damaged area.
- Joint Health: HA is also found in the joints, acting as a lubricant. Oral supplements of HA are sometimes taken to support joint health.
- Eye Health: HA is used in eye surgeries as an injectable to help replace natural eye fluids and is also found in some eye drops for dry eyes.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid is currently tested as part of treatments for other health conditions, such as skin wounds and eye injuries, and as an anti-aging element. As a result, it plays an important role in the human organism. Hyaluronic acid is generally considered beneficial for various applications, especially in skincare. However, as with any product or ingredient, it’s essential to do your research, consult with professionals, and listen to your body’s reactions.
