Over the years, hyaluaronic acid (also known as HA) has been used to prevent wrinkles in many beauty products. But the word “acid” can scare a few people - especially if many people are not aware of it’s benefits. It’s also been known that hyaluronic acid remains a well kept secret among experts within the skin-care industry.
When I think of “acid” I usually think of chemicals and harshness. And who would want to put that on their face? When in reality, they are perfectly safe and there is little irritation.
HA is a key component of collagen that is normally produce in the skin and joints of the body. Collagen is what gives skin it’s volume and fullness. But as we age, collagen production decreases.
The good news is that it’s possible to replace and help the body’s own production of HA. The common ways are through applying regular topical creams or serum, injections, and diet.
But not all creams (beauty products) are made the same way. Some may contain just 1% of HA and claim they have HA. Kinerase makes a cream that is 25% HA, but it is very expensive at $75 per oz. Maybe better for mature skin. I want to start out using the ones made by Source Naturals with 10% HA, they are about $11 to $20 per oz. If you do not have deep wrinkles, then a 10% HA application should be fine.
As for injections, HA has been very good in providing relief of joint pain, especially in the knee (knee osteoarthritis).
Osteoarthritis is characterized by a loss of articular cartilage, which has a highly limited capacity to heal itself. Along with these cartilage changes, a reduction in the elastic and viscous properties of the synovial fluid occurs. The molecular weight and concentration of the naturally occurring hyaluronic acid decreases. -American Academy of Family Physicians.
As for diet, there is a town in Japan where people live into their 90s and beyond. Please see “Beauty: Hylauronic Acid, Part 2“.
Resources: American Academy of Family Physicians: Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid Injections for KneeOsteoarthritis. DERMAdoctor: Hyaluronic Acid & Healthy Looking Skin
Image source: Skin Eternal Hyaluronic Serum, Amazon about $15.
3:16 am on September 5th, 2009
I noticed that many products don’t list HA or other ingredients on their bottle, I wonder if that means that they don’t have any at all. But many times you can find the product review on the Internet with the ingredients, but they don’t have the percentage listed. I need to pay more attention and read the label the next time I’m at the cosmetic aisle.
I think any products that promise youthful look would be very expensive, but it’s also the lifestyle, so eat right and exercise, I’m guilty of lacking both these days.
1:31 am on September 6th, 2009
I’ve heard that the percentage of ingredients are listed in order… meaning the main ingredient is listed first and so on. It’s rare that they would reveal the % to us, but with HA I think the higher the % the more it cost. But 10% is good for young people. It’s a great supplement not just for beauty, but for health too. I am ordering some for my mom to try soon.
Yes, even with all the youth potions out there, not having the health to enjoy your life is no fun either. I hope you are getting the much needed rest and relaxation. Happy Labor Day weekend to you and your family.
7:37 am on September 6th, 2009
Hi Cambree,
Were you a science major in college? I understand fully where you come from with the general definition of ‘acid.’ In a way, I find this article similar to your soap making and all those ‘acids’ in them:)))
By the way, my joints are aching from tennis and I’m planning of taking Glucosamine, Chondroitin and HA…the price of getting old:(( Kind of expensive, any suggestions?
11:01 pm on September 7th, 2009
Hi PaNoy,
I’ve always loved science and still do, but not enough to major in it. I think my real learning came after college.
Those are all good supplements you’ve listed. Fish oil would be another good one for joints. Price of getting older? I like to think I am also getting wiser! But I’ve noticed friends over 30 have been complaining more about aches and pain too.