THEJanuary 21st is the National Hyaluronic Acid Dayan initiative that invites you to discover the benefits, properties and secrets of this fundamental molecule, among the most sought after in health treatments skincare. Ingredient superstar from the cosmetic formulations, it was introduced in the aesthetic field in 1980. This is why, today, it should never be missing from beauty routines.
National Hyaluronic Acid Day: how it evolved in skincare
«Hyaluronic acid it is one of the best known elements in the world of cosmetics and aesthetics for its incredible properties” begins to explain Dr. Elisabetta Fulgione, Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology for the Dermatological Clinic of the University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli” and expert doctor for La Roche-Posay.
When was it discovered? «In 1934, Meyer and his assistant John Palmer isolated a new one high molecular weight polysaccharide molecule which they called hyaluronic acid from Hyaloid (vitreous) + uronic acid. They didn’t know they had discovered one of the most interesting natural molecules used in medicine and cosmetics. It then took another 20 years of studies to precisely establish the chemical structure.”
«It was only in the 1980s that it began to be used in the cosmetic field (when large-scale production of bio-hyaluronic acid began) thus becoming one of the fundamental active ingredients of the skincare routine.”
Subsequently, «further studies on the different molecular weights allowed us to maximize the action of hyaluronic acid on the skin: making it an indispensable ingredient for preserving the skin’s hydration and improving its texture and volumes» continues the expert.
The benefits for the skin at every age
«Hyaluronic acid is synthesized by cells called fibroblasts present in the extracellular environment of the dermis. Although constantly synthesized, starting from the age of 25, its quantity decreases, with differences that may vary from individual to individual. In shortage, the skin does not maintain an optimal level of hydrationbut also increasingly evident signs of skin aging” continues Dr. Fulgione.
«What perhaps is not known is that its properties go beyond its moisturizing cosmetic action, but also anti-aging. For example, the active also ensures the lubrication and cushioning of the synovial fluid present in the joints. Plus, thanks to his healing properties, it can also be used on 2nd and 3rd degree burns”.
In aesthetic medicine, Hyaluronic acid is mainly used to act on the signs of aginghydrate mature skin and obtain firmer and more toned skin.”
What changes based on molecular weight
«Hyaluronic acid It can be applied in the form of cream, gel and serums with different molecular weight. To maximize the effects, the choice should fall on a dermocosmetic that presents multiple molecular weights in combination” advises the expert.
For example? “The Bass and the average molecular weight, which are absorbed more easily, allow you to maintain an optimal level of hydration: in fact, they act on the structure of the skin and helping fight the signs of aging. THE‘high molecular weight instead, it allows you to act on the most superficial layers of the epidermisgiving softness and smoothing the surface.”
(Credits: GettyImages @cindycrawford)
Yes combined with retinol and vitamin C
“In the end, there are no active ingredients or ingredients with which hyaluronic acid cannot be associated or contraindications to its use” continues the expert.
«Based on the skin biotype and the skin’s needs, hyaluronic acid can be a very valid support for the well-being of the skinboth used as a single molecule and associated with dermocosmetics such as vitamin C and retinol” concludes the expert.
iO Donna © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED