Why Does The Beauty Industry Love Hyaluronic acid?

Have you ever wondered why when it comes to anti-aging ‘Hyaluronic Acid’ is at the top of the list??

Hyaluronic acid -is a molecule that is naturally found in our SKIN and connective tissue. This naturally occurring polysaccharide, acts as a hydrating and lubrication agent for our joints, hair, SKIN, nerves and eyes. The reason Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is so unique (and loved by the beauty industry) is because of its amazing ability to retain moisture. In fact in humans, Hyaluronic Acid is capable of holding 1,000 times its weight in water. This results in the binding of moisture in the skin. 

Unfortunately our skins naturally occurring HA starts to deteriorate over time. This is due to general ageing, sun damage and environmental factors. Also, with age molecules in our skin lose some of their ability to bind and retain water. This not only causes dryness, and wrinkles but also a decrease in the skin’s volume.

A decrease in our skins moisture level is one of the main culprits of aging skin. This is why HA (which attracts moisture)—is a must-have when it comes to repairing the skin’s moisture barrier, preventing epidermis water loss and also restoring volume loss. It also helps retain collagen, and provide elasticity and flexibility.

Today, HA is incorporated into different anti-aging beauty and health care products — you can now buy hyaluronic acid serums and specialist Registered Nurses, Doctors and Dermatologist even offer HA in injection form (dermal fillers / Beauty Boosters). 

Interestingly ….studies have shown that wrinkles and fine lines are usually more visible in low humidity compared to high humidity environments. This is because low humidity reduces the water-holding capacity and elasticity of the skin. 

Hyaluronic Acid Injections AKA Dermal Fillers

It is because of the depletion in HA (as we age) that specialists Registered Nurses or Doctors often inject hyaluronic acid fillers into the epidermis to replenish the loss of volume and structure. 

There are different types of HA filler’s ranging from ‘thicker / denser’ fillers which are used to mimic bone structure or restore volume to larger areas, and there are thinner / ‘softer’ fillers that are used to mimic softer tissue (such as lips). The longevity of a hyaluronic acid filler is determined by the amount of cross-linking of the gel molecules. The more cross-linked the product the ‘harder’ it can be and longer it will last. Typically Dermal Filler product longevity will range from 6 – 15 months.

There is also a more recent form of HA (which is combined with specific high quality skin nutrients) that can be injected more superficial into the dermis to hydrate and replenish. See here for more details.

Note:- All HA injections must be administered by specially trained experienced Doctors or Registered Nurses only.

Topical Serums

Different brands contain varying concentrations and types of HA molecules. Studies have found that daily topical application of good quality HA serums can lead to significant improvement in skin hydration, wrinkle appearance and elasticity.

Victoria Isherwood (Registered Nurse – Dermatology)

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