4 Surprising Facts About Hyaluronic Acid You Might Not Know

Hyaluronic acid has become a buzzword in the skincare and health industry, often lauded for its remarkable benefits. But what exactly is this compound, and why is it so essential? Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the human body, predominantly found in the skin, connective tissue, and eyes. It plays a crucial role in retaining moisture, thereby keeping tissues well-lubricated and moist. This unique property has made it a staple ingredient in numerous skincare products.

The science behind hyaluronic acid is fascinating. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an incredibly effective moisturiser. However, the benefits of hyaluronic acid extend far beyond hydration. From protecting the skin to enhancing wound healing and improving oily skin, hyaluronic acid offers a range of unexpected benefits. In this article, we share four surprising facts about hyaluronic acid that you might not know, supported by scientific evidence.

1. Skin protectant extraordinaire

Hyaluronic acid is more than just a moisturiser. In fact, it acts as a potent skin protectant. The skin is constantly exposed to environmental stressors such as UV radiation, pollution, and harsh weather conditions, which can lead to premature ageing¹ and skin damage. Hyaluronic acid forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, shielding it from these harmful elements.

Research has shown that hyaluronic acid can significantly reduce the damaging effects of UV radiation. A study² demonstrated that HA can inhibit UVB-induced skin damage and inflammation, highlighting its protective properties. This makes hyaluronic acid an excellent addition to sunscreens and other protective skincare products.

2. Speeding up wound healing

One of the lesser-known benefits of hyaluronic acid is its ability to accelerate wound healing. When the skin is injured, the body naturally produces more HA to aid in the repair process. Hyaluronic acid facilitates the migration and proliferation of skin cells to the wound site, promoting faster healing.

A clinical study³found that hyaluronic acid significantly enhances wound healing by regulating inflammation and tissue regeneration. The study concluded that HA not only speeds up the healing process but also improves the overall quality of the healed skin. This property is particularly beneficial for treating skin injuries, post-surgical wounds, and even burns.

3. Enhancing the lipid barrier

The skin’s lipid barrier is crucial for maintaining moisture and protecting against external irritants. A compromised lipid barrier can lead to dryness, sensitivity, and an increased risk of infections. Hyaluronic acid plays a vital role in enhancing and maintaining this lipid barrier.

Hyaluronic acid helps to fortify the skin’s natural lipid barrier by providing deep hydration and supporting the structure of the skin. According to a study⁴, HA significantly improves skin elasticity and hydration, which in turn strengthens the lipid barrier. This enhancement is particularly important for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, as it helps to lock in moisture and protect against environmental aggressors.

4. Balancing oily skin and reducing acne

Contrary to what many might think, hyaluronic acid is also beneficial for those with oily skin and acne⁵. HA provides lightweight hydration that doesn’t clog pores or add excess oil to the skin. This is crucial for maintaining a balanced moisture level, which is often disrupted in oily skin types.

Moreover, HA’s anti-inflammatory properties help to calm the skin and reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne. By promoting a healthy balance of oil and moisture, hyaluronic acid can help to minimise acne outbreaks and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. This makes it an excellent addition to the skincare routine of anyone struggling with oily skin and acne issues.

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid is a powerhouse ingredient that offers far more than just hydration. Its protective, healing, and balancing properties make it a must-have in any skincare routine. Whether you are looking to enhance your skin barrier, speed up wound healing, or balance oily skin, HA has you covered.

If you are seeking expert advice and treatments tailored to your skin and hair concerns, Angeline Yong Dermatology Clinic is your go-to dermatology clinic. Specialising in comprehensive skincare solutions, including not only medical and aesthetic dermatology treatments but also skin cancer screening in Singapore, Dr Angeline Yong offers personalised care to help you achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful skin. Don’t wait to experience the myriad benefits of hyaluronic acid and professional dermatological care – schedule your consultation today.

References

Papakonstantinou, E., Roth, M., & Karakiulakis, G. (2012). Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermato-endocrinology, 4(3), 253–258. https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.21923

Oe, M., Sakai, S., Yoshida, H., Okado, N., Kaneda, H., Masuda, Y., & Urushibata, O. (2017). Oral hyaluronan relieves wrinkles: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study over a 12-week period. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 10, 267–273. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S141845

Marinelli, L., Cacciatore, I., Costantini, E., Dimmito, M. P., Serra, F., Di Stefano, A., & Reale, M. (2022). Wound-Healing Promotion and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Carvacrol Prodrugs/Hyaluronic Acid Formulations. Pharmaceutics, 14(7), 1468. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14071468

Pavicic, T., Gauglitz, G. G., Lersch, P., Schwach-Abdellaoui, K., Malle, B., Korting, H. C., & Farwick, M. (2011). Efficacy of cream-based novel formulations of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights in anti-wrinkle treatment. Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD, 10(9), 990–1000.

Is hyaluronic acid good for oily skin? (n.d.). https://www.cetaphil.com.ph/skincare-tips/is-hyaluronic-acid-good-for-oily-skin-updated.html

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4 Surprising Facts About Hyaluronic Acid You Might Not Know