1. WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycans (sugar molecule), present in our body, most predominantly in the skin (50%), but also in the eyes, joints, and other parts of the body. The hyaluronic acid content of the dermis is significantly higher than that of the epidermis.
2. HOW DOES HYALURONIC ACID WORK?
Hyaluronic acid is the key molecule involved in skin hydration. It attracts and binds to water and can hold up to 1000 times its molecular weight. This results in softer, plumper. It is a powerful antioxidant. It improves skin hydration and stimulates collagen and elastin in the skin.
3. “WHY” IS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU?
In the skin, photoaging or premature aging because of repeated and prolonged exposure to UV radiation results in diminished hyaluronic acid levels in the skin, particularly in the epidermis. This results in loss of skin moisture in the epidermis with results in dryness, wrinkles, and fine lines in the skin. The molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid is important. HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT HA does not penetrate the stratum corneum of the skin and so is useful for barrier protection and reduction on epidermal water loss and has anti-inflammatory effects but due to it being only on the surface, it is washed away when you wash your face. LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT HA can penetrate the stratum corneum and increase hydration in the skin and prevent signs of skin aging Hyaluronic acid is also used in dermal fillers in aesthetics. VERY LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT HA, however, has been showing to be pro-inflammatory.