We, as humans, are not immortals. We all age at some point in time, and as we age, our skin loses its elasticity and suppleness. Leading to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dryness.
But there is one naturally occurring magical elixir that can help you combat the signs of aging — introducing “Hyaluronic Acid”.
It has kind of become a buzzword in the beauty industry these days, and for good reason.
In this article, we will learn about the science behind hyaluronic acid and how it’s a beneficial addition to your skincare routine.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
It is the slippery, gooey substance that your body produces naturally on a daily basis. It can usually be found throughout the body, especially in your eyes, joints, and skin.
FUN FACT!
One gram of Hyaluronic Acid can bind up to six liters of water.
What Can Hyaluronic Acid Do for You?
Subtitle: What does hyaluronic acid treat?
As stated earlier, it is a kind of magical elixir that can do wonders for your body. Here is a list of things that hyaluronic acid can do for your body:
- It helps move things smoothly.
It works as a lube for your joints and prevents them from grinding together and causing you pain.
- It keeps things hydrated.
It’s very good at retaining water. A quarter teaspoon worth of hyaluronic acid can help your body hold about half a gallon of water. This is why it is usually used to treat dry eyes, as well as many kinds of moisturizing creams, lotions, and serums.
- It can make your skin flexible.
It can also make your skin stretchy and flexible. This can effectively help reduce the wrinkles and fine lines on your skin. It can also help your skin heal faster from injuries and reduce scarring.
How is it Made?
Certain bacteria from plant sources, such as wheat, corn, or soy, are fermented to produce hyaluronic acid.
For example, wheat grains are fermented with the help of lactic acid bacteria and then undergo a series of purification steps without any added chemicals.
It is then finally dehydrated to obtain a powder. Then it is mixed in with water and other substances to produce your choice of beauty products.
Is Hyaluronic Acid Safe?
Some research shows that it is pretty safe to use. But, though rare, there are some cases where people get reactions from using products containing hyaluronic acid.
Still, it’s relatively safe, and many dermatologists would probably even recommend using it for nursing and pregnant women.
DID YOU KNOW?
Hyaluronic acid can help improve bone density and protect against osteoporosis.
How Do You Take Hyaluronic Acid?
There are many ways to take hyaluronic acid. It can be by food, OTC medicines, lotions, and some with the help of a medical professional.
To make it more simple, we have compiled a list of ways you can take hyaluronic acid:
- By Mouth: It comes in many forms, but the most common ways of taking hyaluronic acid are oral supplements, pills, and foods.
- On the Skin: Many beauties, cosmetics, personal care, and skin products oftentimes contain hyaluronic acid. These may include shampoos, lotions, gels, ointments, patches etc. You can also buy a powder to mix with water and apply it to your skin.
- Eye Drops: Many kinds of eye drops may contain hyaluronic acid because of its water retention properties.
- By Injections: Hyaluronic acid injections are usually used to treat joint pains caused by arthritis. It is also commonly used with medications given in IV.
- Under the Skin: It is also used by many dermatologists and plastic surgeons to treat skin with collagen and fillers to restore natural skin shape and appearance. It is also used in treating scars.
- By Inhaler/Nebulizer: It is also used to treat breathing problems like asthma or infections.
Remember that some of the things in this list may only be performed by medical professionals (like injections, under the skin, and inhalers).
While hyaluronic acid is relatively safe, but, you need to know that even medicine can become poisonous if used improperly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Long-term use on the skin or as an oral supplement has been shown to improve overall skin health. It’s great to improve the flexibility and elasticity of the skin.
Ans: Yes, it is usually used as the main ingredient in fillers that are used to repair or conceal scars left behind by acne.
Ans: Yes, depending on how it is used, it is relatively safe to use. OTC serums, lotions, and skin creams are very safe and are widely used. Even many of the cosmetics and other beauty products contain hyaluronic acid.
Ans:Yes, depending on how it’s used. Right now the most common uses include skin, joint pain, eye, and scar treatment.
