Not just an ingredient in hydrating serums that promise to add a plump, juicy glow to the skin, hyaluronic acid is one of the most important naturally occurring substances in the body. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, and works to support parts of the body such as the joints, acting as a sort of shock-absorber to protect them. Sadly, we don’t have an endless supply: Hyaluronic acid starts to decline from the age of 20, and will have reduced by around 50 percent by the time you reach your fifties. That is why it could be worth considering a hyaluronic acid supplement.
The benefits of hyaluronic acid
A highly tolerable active ingredient in skincare, hyaluronic acid can even help with the penetration of other topical skin products. As it’s easy for the epidermis to absorb, hyaluronic acid is also used in aesthetic medicine techniques such as Skinvive, an injectable treatment that uses hyaluronic acid to help smooth the lips and cheeks. Separately, it can help to improve arthritis when administered to areas such as the knees and other joints, and can also help relieve dry eyes in drop or supplement form.
4 benefits of hyaluronic acid supplements
Whether you’re looking to boost your skin or help your joints, you can bolster a hyaluronic acid supplement with vitamin C, coenzyme Q10, mineral salts, or collagen.
1. Anti-aging benefits for the skin
Hyaluronic acid fits into the spaces between the collagen fibers that form the “scaffolding” that helps to keep the skin plump. Hyaluronic acid supplements also combine well with actives such as vitamin C or coenzyme Q10, which can help fight oxidative stress.
2. A dry skin and acne solution
Since the skin is more than 50 percent water, and hyaluronic acid is known for its ability to absorb and retain it, hyaluronic acid can help to counteract dryness and keep the complexion looking fresh and firm. It can also regulate sebum production if you suffer from oily skin, but doesn’t dehydrate, therefore helping to retain the balance of the skin.
3. Protects joints
Capable of retaining a lot of water, hyaluronic acid will help to keep your joints well lubricated and protect them from physical stresses and inflammation. This is especially good if you’re particularly active.
4. Stimulates muscle repair
Taken in tablet form, hyaluronic acid can help with the repair of damaged muscles. A University of Ottawa study published in Science found that hyaluronic acid has a key role to play in the communication between stem cells and immune cells that occurs when muscle is damaged. When muscle is damaged, immune cells must enter the tissue to address the damage before stem cells can commence repair. According to the study, hyaluronic acid is the key ingredient in this “internal alarm clock,” prompting immune cells to “wake up” and get to work.
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