Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid is now widely used in cosmetics and cosmetic procedures. It is a slippery substance present in significant amounts in the eyes, joints, and skin. It is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan, a high molecular weight polysaccharide, a kind of structural carbohydrate.
Hyaluronic Acid is among the FDA-approved molecules for many usages in cosmetology. Thus, it is one of the most commonly used fillers in cosmetic procedures, where it is used as a subcutaneous injection. Hyaluronic Acid is also known to help manage osteoarthritis when injected directly into larger joints. Even Hyaluronic Acid-based topical gels and creams are widely used.1
Health Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
Below are some of the health benefits of Hyaluronic Acid:
- Skin Health
Hyaluronic Acid is a powerful humectant, meaning it can retain significant moisture. It helps keep the skin hydrated, plump, and smooth by attracting and holding water molecules. It means that it also has a potent anti-aging effect on the skin. Further, it is known to promote skin healing and repair. One can also use it topically to improve skin texture. Hyaluronic is widely used to reduce skin wrinkles and improve its elasticity and appearance.2
- Joint Health
Hyaluronic Acid is one of the major components of synovial fluid and thus plays an important role in joint lubrication. Its higher intake is associated with lower joint pain scores. Hyaluronic Acid has been found to be especially good for osteoarthritis. However, it may also help reduce joint inflammation and thus benefit in a range of joint disorders. Clinical studies confirm oral Hyaluronic Acid intake effectively reduces joint pain and inflammation.3
- Eye Health
Hyaluronic Acid use is quite common in ophthalmology. It is an excellent lubricant. Thus, both its topical use and oral intake may help manage dry eye. One of the most extensive systemic reviews found sound evidence that it is good for eye health and managing dry eye disease.4
- Gum Health
Hyaluronic Acid can support gum health by promoting tissue repair and maintaining hydration. It helps reduce inflammation and can aid in healing gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. It is quite good for controlling gum bleeding and may be especially good for those prone to such issues.5
- Wound Healing
Hyaluronic Acid nourishes skin and promotes healing in multiple ways. It helps lower inflammation levels, signalling the body to build more blood vessels in the damaged area. It can speed up the recovery process for wounds and burns. What is good is that it Hyaluronic Acid is helpful both as a topical therapy and oral intake.6
- Bone Health
While not as extensively studied, Hyaluronic Acid is believed to support bone health by contributing to bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis, especially when used in conjunction with other treatments. It is thought to be especially good for postmenopausal women.7
- Bladder Health
Hyaluronic Acid can help alleviate symptoms of interstitial cystitis (a chronic condition causing bladder pain and pressure) by repairing the bladder lining and reducing inflammation. It can also be especially good for women prone to recurrent urinary tract infections. Studies suggest that its prolonged use may reduce cystitis frequency and enhance sexual function.8
Hyaluronic Acid Side Effects
Hyaluronic Acid is unlikely to cause side effects when taken orally. However, some people may experience bloating or other gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, some might also report allergic reactions.
Properties
- Anti-Inflammatory3
- Arthritis1,3
- Bladder Support8
- Bone Strengthening7
- Cystitis8
- Eye Health4
- Joint Health3
- Oral Health5
- Osteoporosis7
- Skin Issues2
- Urinary Tract Issues8
- Wound Healing6
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482440/
- Papakonstantinou E, Roth M, Karakiulakis G. Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermatoendocrinol. 2012 Jul 1;4(3):253–8.
- Oe M, Tashiro T, Yoshida H, Nishiyama H, Masuda Y, Maruyama K, et al. Oral hyaluronan relieves knee pain: a review. Nutr J. 2016 Jan 27;15:11.
- Hynnekleiv L, Magno M, Vernhardsdottir RR, Moschowits E, Tønseth KA, Dartt DA, et al. Hyaluronic acid in the treatment of dry eye disease. Acta Ophthalmol. 2022 Dec;100(8):844–60.
- Dahiya P, Kamal R. Hyaluronic Acid: A Boon in Periodontal Therapy. N Am J Med Sci. 2013 May;5(5):309–15.
- Della Sala F, Longobardo G, Fabozzi A, di Gennaro M, Borzacchiello A. Hyaluronic Acid-Based Wound Dressing with Antimicrobial Properties for Wound Healing Application. Applied Sciences. 2022 Jan;12(6):3091.
- Stancíková M, Svík K, Istok R, Rovenský J, Velebný V. The effects of hyaluronan on bone resorption and bone mineral density in a rat model of estrogen deficiency-induced osteopenia. Int J Tissue React. 2004;26(1–2):9–16.
- Vita DD, Madonia M, Coppola E, Sciorio C, Giordano S, Dessole S, et al. Long-term efficacy of intravesical instillation of hyaluronic acid/chondroitin sulfate in recurrent bacterial cystitis: 36 months’ follow-up. CEOG. 2018 Apr 10;45(2):224–8.