What it is:
Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium hyaluronate) is a natural substance found in human connective tissue whose function is to cushion and lubricate.
What it does:
Hyaluronic acid regulates the moisture balance of the skin. It has the highest capacity to hold water (can bind water up to 1000 times its volume) than any other substance known, and is effective in both high and low humidity conditions. This plums the skin and makes it appear smooth, reducing flaking, wrinkles and fine lines.
In 2003, DDA approved it to to be injected under the skin. Hyaluronan injections temporarily smooth wrinkles by adding volume under the skin. The effects last about 6 months.
It also stimulates hair growth.
Hyaluronic Acid s invisible, not sticky and doesn’t obstruct the skins ability to breath.
Side effects:
While Hyaluronic Acid has no side effect when applied topically, the same can’t be said for facial injections. These are painful because the hyaluronic acid gel that is injected doesn’t contain lidocaine, an anesthetic. In addition, there usually is temporary inflammation. This produces swelling and redness especially in the lip area. People who have been on any blood medication within the last five years should not inject this drug until the five year span is over.
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Ah, thanks for this post! I had seen that name in one of my magazines recently, but I hadn’t looked it up yet. Have you seen this in any products around in stores?
You’re welcome Elena. Hyaluronic acid is used in many skincare and cosmetic products like Skinceuticals Hydrating b5 gel, DermAvance Hyalogy P-effect night cream, Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Eye Treatment and lots more.
Nice! I’ll check and see if I can find those and if I can use them. Do you use any special treatment products on your skin normally? I’m just using a normal BHA/AHA treatment three times a week after cleansing. Works pretty well so far.
I’m glad that’s working for you. I’m always testing out new products. At the moment I’m using an organic face mask and an exfoliator, both once a week. They seem to work ok so far, esp the mask.