overview
what is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid (pronounced hi-ah-lew-ron-ic), also known as hyaluronan or hyaluronate, is a sticky, slippery substance that your body produces naturally. Scientists have found hyaluronic acid throughout the body, especially in the eyes, joints, and skin.
what does hyaluronic acid do for you?
hyaluronic acid is a remarkable substance for all the benefits and uses it has in your body. These are just some of the benefits of hyaluronic acid:
- helps things move smoothly. hyaluronic acid helps joints run like a well-oiled machine. prevents pain and injuries caused by bones rubbing against each other.
- helps keep things hydrated. hyaluronic acid is very good at retaining water. a quarter teaspoon of hyaluronic acid contains about a gallon and a half of water. this is why hyaluronic acid is often used to treat dry eyes. it is also used in moisturizers, lotions, ointments, and serums.
- makes skin supple. hyaluronic acid helps skin stretch and flex and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid has also been shown to help wounds heal faster and may reduce scarring.
- By mouth: Hyaluronic acid comes in dietary supplements and pills. there is even a liquid form that you can mix with water and drink.
- taking hyaluronic acid by mouth can have many benefits. These include reducing arthritis pain, improving skin health, and more.
- on the skin: Hyaluronic acid products come in various forms that are placed on the skin. These include shampoos, lotions, creams, gels, ointments, patches, and serums. You can also buy hyaluronic acid powder and mix it with water to create a hyaluronic acid serum that you can apply to your skin.
- Hyaluronic acid has beneficial properties when used on your skin. it is especially helpful in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and age lines.
- eye drops: a wide variety of eye drops contain hyaluronic acid.
- For intimate contact: Hyaluronic acid is a common ingredient in gels, creams, or personal lubricants for vaginal dryness or pain, especially for women experiencing menopause.
- By injection: Hyaluronic acid injections into the joints can relieve pain caused by arthritis. it is also commonly used with medications administered intravenously. may be prescribed off-label by health care providers to treat bladder pain (such as pain caused by interstitial cystitis).
- Under the skin: Fillers containing hyaluronic acid and collagen (a natural protein also found in the body) are approved for injection under the skin. These fillers help restore the natural shape and appearance, such as treating acne scars or adding volume to the lips.
- In the nose: Some medications use hyaluronic acid because it helps the body absorb them, especially when taken through the nose.
- by inhaler/nebulizer: hyaluronic acid can treat respiratory (breathing) problems such as asthma or infections.
Hyaluronic acid is also available by prescription in the following forms:
Remember, only trained and qualified medical professionals should give injections. Although experts say that hyaluronic acid is safe, improper use, especially when injected, can lead to serious complications or even death.
how is it done?
Hyaluronic acid is often produced through the fermentation of certain types of bacteria. rooster combs (the red mohawk-like growth on the top of a rooster’s head and face) are also a common source.
is hyaluronic acid safe?
yes. research shows that hyaluronic acid is safe to use. reactions or adverse effects of hyaluronic acid are rare and it is safe to use if you are pregnant or nursing.
how does hyaluronic acid interact with other products?
Products that combine hyaluronic acid with other medications or compounds may have some risk of side effects.
It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including supplements, vitamins, etc., as they can help you better understand any potential concerns.
how can i take hyaluronic acid?
There are many ways to take hyaluronic acid (either alone or in combination with products). many are available without a prescription. some require a prescription. for some, you need to see a trained medical professional.
Some of the different ways (available over the counter) you can take hyaluronic acid include:
