Hyaluronic acid is a gel like substance found in the skin as well as in the fluid around the eyes, connective tissues, cartilage, and in between joints. As a major component of skin, hyaluronic acid serves a vital function in tissue repair and healing, cell proliferation, providing elasticity and to fill up space in tissues.

Aging, over exposure to the sun, and other environmental factors decrease the skin's ability to product hyaluronic acid naturally and can actually increase the rate of the skin's natural HA content to degrade over time. Maintaining an adequate amount of hyaluronic acid is vital, and supplements can keep your levels on target. Hyaluronic acid oral supplements can help the body maintain moisture, bringing relief for skin problems such as dryness, eczema and psoriasis.

Medical Benefits According to the Supplement Research Foundation, "HA seems to work through several mechanisms of action including restoration of more normal synovial fluid with improved viscoelasticity, effects on cartilage biosynthesis and degradation, anti-inflammatory effects, and direct analgesic effects." Hyaluronic acid supplements are also considered to be an effective treatment for conditions such as arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and pain linked to joint damage. Additionally, the supplements can be useful in increasing bone density, muscle strength, mobility, alertness, sleep quality, sexual potency and wound healing.

Cosmetic Benefits Hyaluronic acid supplements boast a number of benefits by supporting healthy skin unction. Hyaluronic acid has the potential to help reproduce healthy skin cells within a collagen matrix by increasing hydration and acting as a lubricant among the collagen matrix of the skin. Given that Hyaluronic acid is an element of the skin's construction and weakens with age, the supplements help ensure ample levels stay in the skin to sustain its overall appearance and function.