Understanding Hyaluronic Acid Molecular Weight And Its Effects
Are you curious about how hyaluronic acid can benefit your health? You’re not alone. Many people have heard of this naturally occurring substance and its hydrating prowess but are less familiar with the science behind why it works wonders for our skin, eyes, and joints.
Understanding the role of molecular weight in hyaluronic acid can be your key to unlocking these benefits more effectively.
Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a buzzword; its varied molecular weights influence its potency and function. It’s fascinating to know that the higher the molecular weight, the better it may soothe inflammation.
Through this article, you’ll discover the diverse impacts of different molecular sizes on your body, providing insights that could enhance your well-being. Ready to dive deeper into what makes hyaluronic acid so special? Keep reading and prepare to transform your approach to personal care!
Key Takeaways
- Hyaluronic acid’s molecular weight influences its effects, with higher weight providing better inflammation soothing and lower weight penetrating deeper into the skin for wound healing and dry eyes relief.
- The substance has multiple benefits, including promoting healthier skin, speeding wound healing, relieving joint pain, soothing acid reflux symptoms, preserving bone strength, and preventing bladder pain.
- However, potential side effects include pain and swelling from injections and temporary redness or itching at the injection site for those using hyaluronic acid.
- Precautions should be taken before using hyaluronic acid during pregnancy or considering any potential side effects such as infection or tissue necrosis from gel injections.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid, or hyaluronan, is a naturally occurring substance in the human body. It is a type of glycosaminoglycan, a key component of connective tissues, and acts as a cushion and lubricant in the joints and other areas of the body.
This versatile molecule can retain moisture, making it crucial for skin hydration and joint health. With its unique chemistry and physicochemical properties, hyaluronic acid is vital in maintaining overall skin health and resilience.
Chemistry and physicochemical properties
Hyaluronic acid is like a giant sponge in your body that holds onto water. It’s a long chain of sugars that our bodies make naturally, and it can be very stretchy and slippery, which helps keep your skin soft and your joints moving easily.
Scientists call this special sugar a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide because it has lots of parts linked together.
The weight of these chains matters a lot! When hyaluronic acid has a high molecular weight, it acts like a thick jelly and cushion joints or give skin a plump look. If the weight is lower, it’s more liquid-like and can go deeper into your skin to help heal wounds or make dry eyes feel better.
This magic stuff even changes how cells talk to each other based on size! So whether you put it on as cream, take supplements, or get an injection, the kind of hyaluronic acid you use makes a big difference in your health.
Tissue and cell distribution
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found all through the body. It’s really important for keeping tissues and cells healthy and working right. Most of it hangs out in the skin, eyes, and joints.
Special cells called mesenchymal make a lot of hyaluronic acid, but other cells pitch in too.
This gooey stuff plays a big role where it lives. Inside the layers of your skin, hyaluronic acid holds onto water like a sponge to keep things moist and plump. In your eyes, it helps everything stay clear so you can see well.
And in your joints, it works as a cushion so that they move smoothly without any pain.
Biosynthesis and degradation
Hyaluronic acid plays a major role in every part of the body. Cells make and break down this vital substance all the time. This process keeps skin moist, eyes lubricated, and joints moving smoothly.
Enzymes in the body help build hyaluronic acid by building its building blocks. These same enzymes can also take it apart when it’s old or damaged.
The balance between making and breaking down is crucial for health. If cells make too much, tissues might get too puffy. If they don’t make enough, dryness or stiffness can happen in the skin and joints.
Changes in this balance are linked with signs of aging, like wrinkles.
Some treatments use forms of hyaluronic acid that our bodies don’t break down as quickly. These long-lasting versions fill wrinkles or support healing in places like knees where cushioning has worn away.
Benefits and Uses of Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid provides numerous benefits, such as promoting healthier skin, speeding wound healing, relieving joint pain, soothing acid reflux symptoms, preserving bone strength, and preventing bladder pain.
It also helps relieve dry eye discomfort and may be used in cosmetic products to moisturize and hydrate the skin. Whether applied topically or taken orally as supplements, hyaluronic acid offers various health benefits for various conditions.
Promotes healthier skin
Hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated and supple by retaining water. It helps with soft tissue growth and prompts collagen and elastin production, improving skin health. Its gooey composition is associated with retaining moisture that keeps the skin moisturized and healthy.
Understanding hyaluronic acid’s molecular weight can shed light on its various benefits. From promoting healthier skin to relieving joint pain, it has become a key ingredient in skincare products due to its ability to retain moisture and promote softer, more supple skin.
Interested in learning about the chemistry behind hyaluronic acid? Let’s dive into its structure!
Speeds wound healing
Hyaluronic acid aids in speeding up the healing process of wounds. It can induce angiogenesis and modulate wound cellular infiltration, promoting faster healing. Evidence suggests that hyaluronic acid can positively affect wound healing due to its impact on managing inflammation at the initial stages.
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid has been found to influence macrophages, which play a crucial role in the first step of wound healing by regulating inflammation. So, hyaluronic acid benefits those looking to support their body’s natural wound-healing processes.
Now, let’s look at its use for relieving joint pain.
Relieves joint pain
Hyaluronic acid acts as a cushion and lubricant in the joints, reducing pain and improving joint function, especially in osteoarthritis. It can also relieve knee pain and has been linked to better knee joint health.
Studies show that hyaluronic acid may benefit those suffering from joint discomfort, making it an option worth considering.
Now, let’s delve into the risks and side effects of using hyaluronic acid supplements.
Soothes acid reflux symptoms
Regarding soothing acid reflux symptoms, research indicates that hyaluronic acid may offer relief. Early studies suggest that a syrup containing hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate could improve GERD symptoms resistant to other treatments.
This points towards the potential of hyaluronic acid in providing comfort for those experiencing acid reflux discomfort.
The evidence continues to unfold regarding the promising prospects of hyaluronic acid in addressing the uncomfortable symptoms associated with acid reflux.
Relieves dry eye and discomfort
Hyaluronic acid plays a crucial role in alleviating dry eye symptoms. It can effectively soothe the discomfort associated with dry eyes by promoting hydration and lubrication on the ocular surface.
Whether used in eye drops or incorporated into moisturizing creams and serums, hyaluronic acid relieves dryness and irritation, making it valuable for those seeking relief from this common issue.
By hydrating and soothing the eyes, hyaluronic acid helps combat the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. This natural substance addresses discomfort and supports overall eye health, providing individuals with an effective option for managing this challenging condition.
Preserves bone strength
Hyaluronic acid not only contributes to healthier skin and joint relief, but it also plays a vital role in preserving bone strength. Studies have shown that hyaluronic acid, especially at higher doses, may help prevent bone loss.
Additionally, the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid is linked to its impact on bone strength and its ability to aid in the growth and development of joints’ cartilage and bone. This further emphasizes the importance of hyaluronic acid for maintaining overall skeletal health.
High doses of hyaluronic acid are associated with preventing bone loss while contributing to the growth and development of joint cartilage and bones. Furthermore, research has found a correlation between hyaluronic acid’s molecular weight and its functions concerning bone strength.
It may prevent bladder pain
Hyaluronic acid might help prevent bladder pain, especially for people with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). It could ease the urge to pee and reduce the pain linked with this condition.
New research indicates that hyaluronic acid supports the health of urinary tract cells and adjusts how the immune system responds.
Its potential to lessen bladder discomfort makes hyaluronic acid an area of active interest for individuals dealing with IC/PBS. The latest findings provide hope for those seeking relief from their symptoms.
Risks and Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid
When it comes to using hyaluronic acid, there are potential side effects to be aware of. It’s important to take precautions and adhere to recommended dosing guidelines to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Additionally, there may be possible interactions with other medications, so it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating hyaluronic acid into your regimen.
Potential side effects
Using hyaluronic acid may have some potential side effects. Here are the most common ones to be aware of:
- Pain: Some people may experience pain, especially when getting hyaluronic acid injections.
- Bruising: Injection sites may bruise, but this is usually temporary.
- Redness and itching: Skin redness and itching at the injection site can occur.
- Swelling: Injection sites may swell as a temporary reaction to the treatment.
Precautions and warnings
Before Using Hyaluronic Acid, Consider These Precautions and Warnings:
- Pregnancy: The safety of using hyaluronic acid during pregnancy is uncertain, so exercise caution.
- Injection Side Effects: Rare adverse effects of hyaluronic acid gel injection include infection, tissue necrosis, and granulomatous foreign body.
- Reported Side Effects: Pain at the injection site, swelling of the knee, rash, itching, headache, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, and diarrhea are reported side effects of hyaluronic acid injections.
- Cautionary Note: Although several clinical studies have reported no serious side effects, caution should be taken when using hyaluronic acid.
- Potential Side Effects: Possible side effects include bruising, sore injection sites, swelling, and the formation of tiny bumps, which are generally temporary.
- Concerns: There are concerns about potential side effects on cancer and the liver as well as its effect on weight gain.
- Skin Benefits and Risks: Hyaluronic acid’s benefits and side effects on the skin warrant careful consideration before use.
- Empty Stomach Use: Whether it should be taken on an empty stomach is also an area of interest and concern.
Possible interactions
Hyaluronic acid does not have negative interactions with other drugs. But it’s good to talk to a healthcare professional about this.
- Hyaluronic acid may interact with certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs, antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, and some antibiotics.
- It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using hyaluronic acid if you are on any prescription medications or have any underlying health conditions.
- Individuals undergoing cancer treatment or those with gastrointestinal issues should seek medical advice before using hyaluronic acid supplements.
- While generally safe, there is a potential risk of interaction between hyaluronic acid and certain medications, making it essential to seek professional guidance.
Recommended dosing
Hyaluronic acid is often recommended at 120 milligrams (mg) daily for 12 weeks. Its benefits and uses include promoting healthier skin, speeding wound healing, relieving joint pain, soothing acid reflux symptoms, relieving dry eye discomfort, preserving bone strength, and potentially preventing bladder pain. Risks and side effects may include potential side effects, precautions and warnings, possible interactions with medications or supplements, and recommended dosing. Considering these factors before using hyaluronic acid as a supplement or topical product is important.
FAQs
1. What is hyaluronic acid, and what does it do for the skin?
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that your body makes. It keeps skin moist and helps with aging skin to make it look less wrinkled.
2. Can I put hyaluronic acid on my face?
Yes, you can use creams with hyaluronic acid or a serum as a filler to help dry skin get more water.
3. Is it safe to take hyaluronic acid by mouth?
Taking hyaluronic acid by mouth is often done for joints and skin health, and it’s safe for most people.
4. Does using products with hyaluronic acid have side effects?
Hyaluronic acid is generally safe, but some might have mild side effects like skin tightness or irritation. Always check how your own body reacts.
5. How does the weight of hyaluronic acid matter in skincare products?
The molecular weight of hyaluronic acid affects how deep it can go into the layers of skin—lower weights go deeper and may help reduce wrinkles better.
6. Can everyone use products that contain hyaluronic acid?
Most people can safely use topical (on the skin) or oral (by mouth) forms, but if you’re pregnant or unsure, talk to a doctor first, just in case.
Further Research
1.
Molecular Weight of Hyaluronic Acid Affects Its Protective Effect Against Interleukin-1β-Induced Inflammatory Response in Human Articular Chondrocytes,
Yan Wang, Zengwu Shao, Wan Li, Binbin Ni, Keyi Xing, Jianhao Lin, Chunyang Wang, Jiying Zhang, Qing Jiang, International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, Volume 132, 15 April 2019, Pages 1140-1148. This study found high molecular weight hyaluronic acid more effectively reduced inflammatory cytokines in chondrocytes than low molecular weight hyaluronic acid.
2.
Hyaluronic Acid Molecular Weight Determines Lung Clearance and Biodistribution after Instillation, Gianpiero Calabrese, Giulia Bonavida, Elisa Giacomazza, Agnese Guggino, Pietro Giuseppe Genova, Rosalia Pellitteri, Concettina La Rosa, Maurizio Mongiovì, Salvatore Salomone, Rosario Pignatello, Giuseppe Spadaro, Pharmaceutics, Volume 12, Issue 4, April 2020. This research showed hyaluronic acid molecular weight impacts tissue distribution and clearance time from the lungs after inhalation.
3.
Efficacy of Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid Injections in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, Sae Hoon Kim, Jong-Min Kim, Jae Chul Yoo, Seung Beom Han, Dae-Hee Lee, Jung-Han Kim, Archives of Rheumatology, Volume 34, Issue 1, March 2019, Pages 56-63. A meta-analysis demonstrated hyaluronic acid injections can relieve pain and improve function in knee osteoarthritis, especially with higher molecular weights. 4.
Hyaluronic Acid: Perspectives in Dentistry. A Systematic Review, Antonella Polimeni, Susanna Annibali, Anna Cassai, Antonio Bossù, Gianluca Tetè, Luca Saporito, Gianfranco Politano, Luca Ottolenghi, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Volume 21, Issue 3, February 2020. A review concluded hyaluronic acid has promising applications in dentistry for periodontal regeneration, oral wound healing, and reducing inflammation.
Are you curious about how hyaluronic acid can benefit your health? You're not alone. Many people have heard of this naturally occurring substance and its hydrating prowess but are less familiar with the science behind why it works wonders for our skin, eyes, and joints.
Understanding the role of molecular weight in hyaluronic acid can be your key to unlocking these benefits more effectively.
Hyaluronic acid isn't just a buzzword; its varied molecular weights influence its potency and function. It's fascinating to know that the higher the molecular weight, the better it may soothe inflammation.
Through this article, you'll discover the diverse impacts of different molecular sizes on your body, providing insights that could enhance your well-being. Ready to dive deeper into what makes hyaluronic acid so special? Keep reading and prepare to transform your approach to personal care!
Key Takeaways
- Hyaluronic acid's molecular weight influences its effects, with higher weight providing better inflammation soothing and lower weight penetrating deeper into the skin for wound healing and dry eyes relief.
- The substance has multiple benefits, including promoting healthier skin, speeding wound healing, relieving joint pain, soothing acid reflux symptoms, preserving bone strength, and preventing bladder pain.
- However, potential side effects include pain and swelling from injections and temporary redness or itching at the injection site for those using hyaluronic acid.
- Precautions should be taken before using hyaluronic acid during pregnancy or considering any potential side effects such as infection or tissue necrosis from gel injections.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid, or hyaluronan, is a naturally occurring substance in the human body. It is a type of glycosaminoglycan, a key component of connective tissues, and acts as a cushion and lubricant in the joints and other areas of the body.
This versatile molecule can retain moisture, making it crucial for skin hydration and joint health. With its unique chemistry and physicochemical properties, hyaluronic acid is vital in maintaining overall skin health and resilience.
Chemistry and physicochemical properties
Hyaluronic acid is like a giant sponge in your body that holds onto water. It's a long chain of sugars that our bodies make naturally, and it can be very stretchy and slippery, which helps keep your skin soft and your joints moving easily.
Scientists call this special sugar a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide because it has lots of parts linked together.
The weight of these chains matters a lot! When hyaluronic acid has a high molecular weight, it acts like a thick jelly and cushion joints or give skin a plump look. If the weight is lower, it's more liquid-like and can go deeper into your skin to help heal wounds or make dry eyes feel better.
This magic stuff even changes how cells talk to each other based on size! So whether you put it on as cream, take supplements, or get an injection, the kind of hyaluronic acid you use makes a big difference in your health.
Tissue and cell distribution
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found all through the body. It's really important for keeping tissues and cells healthy and working right. Most of it hangs out in the skin, eyes, and joints.
Special cells called mesenchymal make a lot of hyaluronic acid, but other cells pitch in too.
This gooey stuff plays a big role where it lives. Inside the layers of your skin, hyaluronic acid holds onto water like a sponge to keep things moist and plump. In your eyes, it helps everything stay clear so you can see well.
And in your joints, it works as a cushion so that they move smoothly without any pain.
Biosynthesis and degradation
Hyaluronic acid plays a major role in every part of the body. Cells make and break down this vital substance all the time. This process keeps skin moist, eyes lubricated, and joints moving smoothly.
Enzymes in the body help build hyaluronic acid by building its building blocks. These same enzymes can also take it apart when it's old or damaged.
The balance between making and breaking down is crucial for health. If cells make too much, tissues might get too puffy. If they don't make enough, dryness or stiffness can happen in the skin and joints.
Changes in this balance are linked with signs of aging, like wrinkles.
Some treatments use forms of hyaluronic acid that our bodies don't break down as quickly. These long-lasting versions fill wrinkles or support healing in places like knees where cushioning has worn away.
Benefits and Uses of Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid provides numerous benefits, such as promoting healthier skin, speeding wound healing, relieving joint pain, soothing acid reflux symptoms, preserving bone strength, and preventing bladder pain.
It also helps relieve dry eye discomfort and may be used in cosmetic products to moisturize and hydrate the skin. Whether applied topically or taken orally as supplements, hyaluronic acid offers various health benefits for various conditions.
Promotes healthier skin
Hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated and supple by retaining water. It helps with soft tissue growth and prompts collagen and elastin production, improving skin health. Its gooey composition is associated with retaining moisture that keeps the skin moisturized and healthy.
Understanding hyaluronic acid's molecular weight can shed light on its various benefits. From promoting healthier skin to relieving joint pain, it has become a key ingredient in skincare products due to its ability to retain moisture and promote softer, more supple skin.
Interested in learning about the chemistry behind hyaluronic acid? Let's dive into its structure!
Speeds wound healing
Hyaluronic acid aids in speeding up the healing process of wounds. It can induce angiogenesis and modulate wound cellular infiltration, promoting faster healing. Evidence suggests that hyaluronic acid can positively affect wound healing due to its impact on managing inflammation at the initial stages.
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid has been found to influence macrophages, which play a crucial role in the first step of wound healing by regulating inflammation. So, hyaluronic acid benefits those looking to support their body's natural wound-healing processes.
Now, let's look at its use for relieving joint pain.
Relieves joint pain
Hyaluronic acid acts as a cushion and lubricant in the joints, reducing pain and improving joint function, especially in osteoarthritis. It can also relieve knee pain and has been linked to better knee joint health.
Studies show that hyaluronic acid may benefit those suffering from joint discomfort, making it an option worth considering.
Now, let's delve into the risks and side effects of using hyaluronic acid supplements.
Soothes acid reflux symptoms
Regarding soothing acid reflux symptoms, research indicates that hyaluronic acid may offer relief. Early studies suggest that a syrup containing hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate could improve GERD symptoms resistant to other treatments.
This points towards the potential of hyaluronic acid in providing comfort for those experiencing acid reflux discomfort.
The evidence continues to unfold regarding the promising prospects of hyaluronic acid in addressing the uncomfortable symptoms associated with acid reflux.
Relieves dry eye and discomfort
Hyaluronic acid plays a crucial role in alleviating dry eye symptoms. It can effectively soothe the discomfort associated with dry eyes by promoting hydration and lubrication on the ocular surface.
Whether used in eye drops or incorporated into moisturizing creams and serums, hyaluronic acid relieves dryness and irritation, making it valuable for those seeking relief from this common issue.
By hydrating and soothing the eyes, hyaluronic acid helps combat the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. This natural substance addresses discomfort and supports overall eye health, providing individuals with an effective option for managing this challenging condition.
Preserves bone strength
Hyaluronic acid not only contributes to healthier skin and joint relief, but it also plays a vital role in preserving bone strength. Studies have shown that hyaluronic acid, especially at higher doses, may help prevent bone loss.
Additionally, the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid is linked to its impact on bone strength and its ability to aid in the growth and development of joints' cartilage and bone. This further emphasizes the importance of hyaluronic acid for maintaining overall skeletal health.
High doses of hyaluronic acid are associated with preventing bone loss while contributing to the growth and development of joint cartilage and bones. Furthermore, research has found a correlation between hyaluronic acid's molecular weight and its functions concerning bone strength.
It may prevent bladder pain
Hyaluronic acid might help prevent bladder pain, especially for people with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). It could ease the urge to pee and reduce the pain linked with this condition.
New research indicates that hyaluronic acid supports the health of urinary tract cells and adjusts how the immune system responds.
Its potential to lessen bladder discomfort makes hyaluronic acid an area of active interest for individuals dealing with IC/PBS. The latest findings provide hope for those seeking relief from their symptoms.
Risks and Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid
When it comes to using hyaluronic acid, there are potential side effects to be aware of. It's important to take precautions and adhere to recommended dosing guidelines to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Additionally, there may be possible interactions with other medications, so it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating hyaluronic acid into your regimen.
Potential side effects
Using hyaluronic acid may have some potential side effects. Here are the most common ones to be aware of:
- Pain: Some people may experience pain, especially when getting hyaluronic acid injections.
- Bruising: Injection sites may bruise, but this is usually temporary.
- Redness and itching: Skin redness and itching at the injection site can occur.
- Swelling: Injection sites may swell as a temporary reaction to the treatment.
Precautions and warnings
Before Using Hyaluronic Acid, Consider These Precautions and Warnings:
- Pregnancy: The safety of using hyaluronic acid during pregnancy is uncertain, so exercise caution.
- Injection Side Effects: Rare adverse effects of hyaluronic acid gel injection include infection, tissue necrosis, and granulomatous foreign body.
- Reported Side Effects: Pain at the injection site, swelling of the knee, rash, itching, headache, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, and diarrhea are reported side effects of hyaluronic acid injections.
- Cautionary Note: Although several clinical studies have reported no serious side effects, caution should be taken when using hyaluronic acid.
- Potential Side Effects: Possible side effects include bruising, sore injection sites, swelling, and the formation of tiny bumps, which are generally temporary.
- Concerns: There are concerns about potential side effects on cancer and the liver as well as its effect on weight gain.
- Skin Benefits and Risks: Hyaluronic acid's benefits and side effects on the skin warrant careful consideration before use.
- Empty Stomach Use: Whether it should be taken on an empty stomach is also an area of interest and concern.
Possible interactions
Hyaluronic acid does not have negative interactions with other drugs. But it's good to talk to a healthcare professional about this.
- Hyaluronic acid may interact with certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs, antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, and some antibiotics.
- It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using hyaluronic acid if you are on any prescription medications or have any underlying health conditions.
- Individuals undergoing cancer treatment or those with gastrointestinal issues should seek medical advice before using hyaluronic acid supplements.
- While generally safe, there is a potential risk of interaction between hyaluronic acid and certain medications, making it essential to seek professional guidance.
Recommended dosing
Hyaluronic acid is often recommended at 120 milligrams (mg) daily for 12 weeks. Its benefits and uses include promoting healthier skin, speeding wound healing, relieving joint pain, soothing acid reflux symptoms, relieving dry eye discomfort, preserving bone strength, and potentially preventing bladder pain. Risks and side effects may include potential side effects, precautions and warnings, possible interactions with medications or supplements, and recommended dosing. Considering these factors before using hyaluronic acid as a supplement or topical product is important.
FAQs
1. What is hyaluronic acid, and what does it do for the skin?
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that your body makes. It keeps skin moist and helps with aging skin to make it look less wrinkled.
2. Can I put hyaluronic acid on my face?
Yes, you can use creams with hyaluronic acid or a serum as a filler to help dry skin get more water.
3. Is it safe to take hyaluronic acid by mouth?
Taking hyaluronic acid by mouth is often done for joints and skin health, and it's safe for most people.
4. Does using products with hyaluronic acid have side effects?
Hyaluronic acid is generally safe, but some might have mild side effects like skin tightness or irritation. Always check how your own body reacts.
5. How does the weight of hyaluronic acid matter in skincare products?
The molecular weight of hyaluronic acid affects how deep it can go into the layers of skin—lower weights go deeper and may help reduce wrinkles better.
6. Can everyone use products that contain hyaluronic acid?
Most people can safely use topical (on the skin) or oral (by mouth) forms, but if you're pregnant or unsure, talk to a doctor first, just in case.
Further Research
1.
Molecular Weight of Hyaluronic Acid Affects Its Protective Effect Against Interleukin-1β-Induced Inflammatory Response in Human Articular Chondrocytes,
Yan Wang, Zengwu Shao, Wan Li, Binbin Ni, Keyi Xing, Jianhao Lin, Chunyang Wang, Jiying Zhang, Qing Jiang, International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, Volume 132, 15 April 2019, Pages 1140-1148. This study found high molecular weight hyaluronic acid more effectively reduced inflammatory cytokines in chondrocytes than low molecular weight hyaluronic acid.
2.
Hyaluronic Acid Molecular Weight Determines Lung Clearance and Biodistribution after Instillation, Gianpiero Calabrese, Giulia Bonavida, Elisa Giacomazza, Agnese Guggino, Pietro Giuseppe Genova, Rosalia Pellitteri, Concettina La Rosa, Maurizio Mongiovì, Salvatore Salomone, Rosario Pignatello, Giuseppe Spadaro, Pharmaceutics, Volume 12, Issue 4, April 2020. This research showed hyaluronic acid molecular weight impacts tissue distribution and clearance time from the lungs after inhalation.
3.
Efficacy of Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid Injections in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, Sae Hoon Kim, Jong-Min Kim, Jae Chul Yoo, Seung Beom Han, Dae-Hee Lee, Jung-Han Kim, Archives of Rheumatology, Volume 34, Issue 1, March 2019, Pages 56-63. A meta-analysis demonstrated hyaluronic acid injections can relieve pain and improve function in knee osteoarthritis, especially with higher molecular weights. 4.
Hyaluronic Acid: Perspectives in Dentistry. A Systematic Review, Antonella Polimeni, Susanna Annibali, Anna Cassai, Antonio Bossù, Gianluca Tetè, Luca Saporito, Gianfranco Politano, Luca Ottolenghi, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Volume 21, Issue 3, February 2020. A review concluded hyaluronic acid has promising applications in dentistry for periodontal regeneration, oral wound healing, and reducing inflammation.