Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring molecule in the body, particularly in the skin, joints, and eyes. It belongs to the glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) family, which are long chains of complex sugars. HA is composed of repeating units of two different types of sugar: glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine.
HA plays an important role in maintaining the structure and function of tissues throughout the body. In the skin, it helps to keep it hydrated and plump, as it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This makes it a popular ingredient in skincare products because it provides hydration and improves skin texture and appearance.
In joints, HA acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, helping to reduce friction between bones and provide cushioning. This makes it an important component in treatments for joint pain and osteoarthritis.
HA is also used in various medical and cosmetic procedures. It can be injected into the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines or used as a filler to add volume to the face. In ophthalmology, it can be used as a replacement for natural tears or as a lubricant for contact lenses.
Although HA is naturally present in the body, its levels can decrease with age, leading to dry skin, joint pain, and other symptoms. In these cases, HA supplements or treatments may be recommended to help restore levels and improve overall health and well-being.