Benefits of hyaluronic acid
BENEFITS OF HYALURONIC ACID
The beneficial functions of HA in skincare and health are wide and varied. Found in our skin, joints, eyes and connective tissue, the most important function of HA is its very high capacity for retaining water. (46,50-52)
In our skin, HA is present in large quantities in the extracellular matrix (ECM). Because of its significant ability to attract and bind water molecules, HA is important for maintaining structure and volume in the skin. Together, collagen, elastin, and HA form the scaffold of the skin, providing structure, and texture. (53,54)
Hyaluronic acid also plays a role in tissue and wound repair. In the joints, HA is present in cartilage and synovial fluid, acting as both a lubricant and shock absorber. (52,54)
HYALURONIC ACID IN SKINCARE
As we age, our skin tissue becomes dehydrated and the collagen and elastin fibres lose their structure, resulting in a loss of skin volume and the formation of the facial wrinkles and folds that are common characteristics of aged skin. (46,53,55)
HA helps reduce wrinkles and improves skin health
Hyaluronic acid provides continuous moisture to our skin by binding up to 1000 times its weight in water. It is the only biological substance that can retain this amount of water. Indeed, one of the hallmarks of youthful skin is its moisture content that helps keep the skin looking smooth, plump and healthy.
With age, the ability of our skin to produce HA decreases: our skin loses moisture, resulting in a loss of firmness and elasticity. (45,46,53,55-57)
Hyaluronic acid also plays a significant role in reducing oxidative damage to our skin caused from both internal and external factors, such as UV irradiation (also referred to as photoageing). (45)
The primary way in which HA helps improve the appearance of photoaged skin is by reducing water loss from the epidermis.
Skin ageing is also influenced by hormonal changes: decreased production of sex hormones like oestrogen can lead to collagen degradation, which results in dryness, loss of elasticity and wrinkling of our skin. (57)
Newer generation HA dermal fillers have been specifically developed to adapt the movements and dynamism of our faces.
They offer an immediate volume-boosting effect and are designed to create or restore facial volumes and resculpt facial contours. (49)
Thanks to its ability to stimulate collagen production and its excellent capacity to retain water, hyaluronic acid also keeps our skin smooth, plumped up and well hydrated. (54)
HYALURONIC ACID IN HEALTH
Due to its presence in so many structures throughout the body, numerous medical applications have already been discovered for hyaluronic acid.
Some important applications include: (58)
- Scar formation in surgical wounds can be prevented by the administration of HA during surgery
- Produces beneficial wound healing outcomes
- Treatment of osteoarthritis, the knee and rheumatoid arthritis
- Treatment of cataracts
- Drug delivery agent for various routes of administration, including ophthalmic, nasal, pulmonary, parenteral, and topical
