Beauty is more than just appearances, as they say. It’s not just a nice saying but a fact: Our internal bodily functions are closely related to the condition and look of our skin, the largest organ in our body. Our lifestyle choices, including what we eat and drink (and in what amounts), have a significant impact on how our skin looks and feels. Nutrients in our diet are crucial for the development, maintenance, and general health of skin cells. Therefore, it’s not surprising that ingestible skincare has been growing in favor as a substitute for more conventional topical skincare, such as the serums and lotions we apply to our beloved faces.

If your skincare routine looks like a science experiment, you’ve probably heard of hyaluronic acid (HA), also known as the holy grail of hydration, HA has earned its spot in serums, creams, and now in your daily diet as well. It’s high time that we level up our hydration game and drink our dose of hydration. But before that, let’s see what’s the hype behind this legendary beauty elixir.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in your body that acts like a humectant, retaining moisture to keep your skin, joints, and even eyes hydrated. Think of it as your body’s personal water bank, ensuring everything stays plump, smooth, and functioning. As we age, our body’s hyaluronic acid levels decrease, which may be a cause in some aging issues linked to water loss, like fine dry wrinkles and decreased skin flexibility. (1)

In reality, it isn’t acidic, despite its name. Although uronic acid, one of the molecules that makes up its chemical structure, is the source of the “acid” portion of its name, it does not have exfoliating properties. Rather, its name describes various sugar-based molecule sizes that are frequently present in its sodium salt form, also known as sodium hyaluronate. This is referred to as a polysaccharide complex. These substances can arrange themselves into a variety of mesh-like structures, ranging from a big hyaluronic acid crosspolymer of varied weights to the minuscule, hydrolyzed form. Due to its versatility, it can perform a number of bodily activities. It is found in numerous skeletal tissues and organs, although it is most concentrated in the skin, accounting for around half of the body’s hyaluronic acid. (2)

Topical vs. Oral

HA is an ingredient in many skincare products that promise to make the skin more hydrated. But here’s the catch: A closer examination of the product’s HA type is necessary to provide the solution. HA has multiple molecular sizes. Even though they are the greatest at binding water and providing hydration, larger HA molecules are unable to enter the skin; it doesn’t address the root of the problem. When administered topically (to the skin), these molecules remain on top of the skin, providing hydration just at the surface. Only the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, may be penetrated by smaller HA molecules because they bind less water than bigger HA molecules. A product with HA molecules of different sizes will have the most surface hydration.

Enter oral consumption. Research suggests that ingesting hyaluronic acid is far more effective at delivering hydration where it matters. Once absorbed, it travels through your bloodstream, boosting moisture levels in your skin, joints, and connective tissues from the inside out. So instead of just hydrating your face, you’re hydrating everything. (3)

Multifaceted Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

1. Skin Health:

Hyaluronic acid’s unmatched capacity to moisturize the skin is its main advantage. It restores damaged skin cells, leaving your face smooth and glowing. HA can lessen the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, boost skin elasticity by preserving moisture, and encourage the formation of collagen, giving the illusion of firmer, younger skin. All skin types, even those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, can benefit from HA’s mild nature. It can lessen redness and discomfort. (1, 3 & 4)

a. Joint Cushioning: Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the synovial fluid of numerous joints in the body. In a healthy joint, synovial fluid acts as a lubricant, allowing the cartilage at the ends of your joints to glide against one another. This preserves the health and mobility of your joints. (5)

b. Enhanced Wound Healing: Hyaluronic acid promotes fibroblast and keratinocyte migration and proliferation while also acting as a growth factor reservoir. In simpler words, this helps retain wound hydration, absorb water, and speed up the tissue repair and healing process. (6)

2. Overall Hydration: Think of it as a hydration boost for your entire body. Hyaluronic acid is extremely effective in retaining water. It retains up to 1000 times its weight in water. It is therefore frequently used to treat dry eyes. Additionally, it is utilized in serums, ointments, lotions, and moisturizing creams. (7)