What is hyaluronic acid good for?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has become a fundamental ingredient in modern cosmetic formulations. Cosmetic grade hyaluronic acid is usually produced by microbial fermentation or chemical synthesis, carefully purified to meet stringent safety and quality standards for topical and skin care applications.

 Key benefits of hyaluronic acid for the skin

1.Excellent moisturising properties

The main function of hyaluronic acid in cosmetics is its moisturising ability. Typically one gram of hyaluronic acid retains six litres of water, making it an excellent humectant. When applied topically, it forms a moisturising film on the surface of the skin, preventing transepidermal water loss while attracting moisture from the environment.

2. Anti-Aging Mechanisms

Hyaluronic acid specifications are differentiated by molecular weight. Low molecular weight HA can penetrate the epidermis, stimulate fibroblast activity and promote collagen and elastin synthesis. High molecular weight HA forms a protective barrier on the skin surface, plumping the skin and reducing fine lines.

A study in the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery in 2020 showed that topical HA combined with dermal HA injections reduced wrinkle depth by 40% after 12 weeks.

3. Enhance skin repair and barrier function

Hyaluronic acid plays a crucial role in wound healing and maintaining skin barrier function. It interacts with cell surface receptors, regulates inflammation and promotes epithelial cell migration, thus benefiting sensitive or damaged skin.

Products containing HA have been shown to accelerate the recovery of skin irritated by environmental stressors (e.g. UV radiation, pollution) or cosmetic procedures. The US National Library of Medicine (2019) highlights the immunomodulatory effects of HA, which helps to reduce skin redness and improve the skin's natural defence mechanisms.

4. Sunscreen and photoprotective adjuvants 

Although HA is not a stand-alone sunscreen, it works synergistically with UV protectants. By enhancing skin hydration, it strengthens the stratum corneum and reduces the penetration of harmful UV rays.

In addition, HA's antioxidant properties help to neutralise free radicals produced by sun exposure, minimising DNA damage and photoaging. Formulations combining HA with zinc oxide or octinoxate showed improved sun protection in preclinical trials (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021).