Hyaluronic Acid

INCI: Hyaluronic Acid

Sodium Hyaluronate (most commonly used salt form in skincare)

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer (cross-linked form for longer hydration)

Category: Humectant
Used in: Skincare, supplements

Typical Usage Levels (Topical):

• 0.1% – 2% in leave-on skincare (serums, moisturizers)
  
• Most effective formulations combine multiple molecular weights within this range
  

Typical Usage Levels (Oral Supplements):

• 120 mg – 240 mg per day, depending on formulation and duration of use
  

Hyaluronic Acid at a Glance

• Naturally present in skin and connective tissue
  
• Attracts and retains moisture within the skin
  
• Helps support barrier function and skin dewyness
  
• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  

What This Ingredient Does

Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule naturally found in the skin, joints, and connective tissue. Its primary role is to attract and hold water, helping maintain hydration and tissue flexibility.

In skincare, synthetic or bio-fermented forms of hyaluronic acid are used to replenish moisture, soothe dryness, and reduce transepidermal water loss. Hyaluronic acid can bind up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, making it one of the most effective hydrating ingredients available.

In addition to hydration, hyaluronic acid helps protect skin against environmental stress by supporting barrier integrity and providing indirect antioxidant support.

Benefits

• Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin
  
• Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration
  
• Supports a healthy skin barrier
  
• Improves skin smoothness and comfort
  
• Suitable for acne-prone, dry, and sensitive skin
  

Who It’s Suitable For

• All skin types
  
• Dehydrated or dry skin
  
• Oily skin lacking water
  
• Sensitive or barrier-compromised skin
  

Things to Know

Hyaluronic acid works best when applied to slightly damp skin and sealed with a moisturizer to prevent water loss. Different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid provide hydration at varying skin levels.

Oral hyaluronic acid supplements have also been studied for their ability to support skin hydration and elasticity, though results depend on dosage, duration, and overall skin health.

How It’s Commonly Used

In skincare, hyaluronic acid is commonly used in serums, moisturizers, and masks, either alone or in combination with barrier-supporting ingredients.

Related forms include sodium hyaluronate and cross-linked hyaluronic acid, which offer different stability and hydration profiles.

Note by Dr. Su (M.D. Dermatologist)

Hyaluronic acid is a foundational hydrating ingredient. It does not change skin structure, but when used consistently, it significantly improves skin hydration, plumpness and overall skin health.

References

• Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, October 2017, pages 816–823
  
• Journal of Medicinal Food, October 2016, pages 1172–1179
  
• Nutrition Journal, July 2013, ePublication
  
• Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011, Issue 9, pages 990–1000
  
• Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, March 2009, pages 38–43