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Hyaluronic acid: A cornerstone of skin health and aesthetics
Listen in as MD Amanda Palmér, Medical Science Liason at IBSA Nordic, shares her expertise on hyaluronic acid below.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring sugar molecule that plays a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration, elasticity, and overall skin health. Renowned for its moisture-retaining and anti-ageing properties, HA has long been a fundamental ingredient in both aesthetic and medical applications. Its ability to bind and retain water makes it fundamental for skin hydration, while also contributing to tissue regeneration and repair. HA plays a significant role in stimulating collagen production and enhancing skin firmness.
Key abbreviations
HA – Hyaluronic acid
H-HA – High molecular weight hyaluronic acid
L-HA – Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid
MW – Molecular weight
ECM – Extracellular matrix
The multifaceted role of hyaluronic acid in skin health
While HA is often associated primarily with hydration, its benefits extend far beyond that. The function of HA in the skin is largely determined by its molecular weight (MW):
- High molecular weight HA (H-HA): Known for its superior hydration capabilities, H-HA also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in skin repair and soothing irritation.
- Low molecular weight HA (L-HA): Possesses strong antioxidant activity and aids in wound healing.
Choosing the right HA-based products
With a lot of HA-based products available, selecting the right one can be challenging. Key factors to consider include the MW and the purity of the HA used. High-quality HA ensures better skin compatibility and efficacy.
IBSA is a leader in HA innovation and controls the entire production process of its HA – from raw material to final product. IBSA’ products, which are made with the patented SHYALT ultra-pure hyaluronic acid, not only meets but exceeds European standards for purity and safety, ensuring optimal results for skin health and rejuvenation.
The three worlds of hyaluronic acid (HA)
Linear HA
Linear HA consists of free chains of HA that naturally occur in the body. It is particularly effective for improving skin quality, brightness, and hydration. However, due to its susceptibility to enzymatic breakdown by hyaluronidase, its longevity in the skin is limited to approximately two days.
Cross-linked HA (HA-based fillers)
This form of HA undergoes chemical cross-linking to stabilize the molecule and alter its rheological properties. It is widely used in dermal fillers to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours.
Hybrid Cooperative Complexes (HCC)
HCC, the foundation of the PROFHILO® product line, represents a groundbreaking advancement in HA technology. Unlike cross-linked HA, HCC is stabilized without the use of chemical agents. By combining specifically selected L-HA and H-HA, HCC forms a new HA molecule that offers comprehensive skin benefits. This unique structure enables biomodelling action, stimulating the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) components and promoting cell viability, ultimately leading to significant improvements in skin quality, elasticity, and hydration.
Hyaluronic acid remains at the forefront of aesthetic and dermatological advancements, offering transformative benefits for skin health and rejuvenation. By understanding the various forms and applications of HA-based products, practitioners can make decisions on skin care and aesthetic treatments that offers optimal results for the customers.