Hyaluronic Acid is also a major component of skin, where it is involved in tissue repair. Topically applied, hyaluronic acid forms an air permeable layer and penetrates into the dermis, thus boosting the elasticity and hydration of the skin.  The protective barrier on the skin locks in moisture, which gives the skin a youthful appearance. As we age, skin moisture can drop significantly, which creates aging like effects on skin appearance as it loses its elasticity. Thus hyaluronic acid can play a critical role in skin health with its unique ability to hold in moisture (1000 ml of water per gram of hyaluronic acid).

Hyaluronic acid is also a “smart nutrient” as it can adjust its moisture absorption rate based on the humidity—relative to the season and the climate.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid and UVB Sun Protection

One of the most skin damaging elements are UVB rays from the sun. Hyaluronic acid also protects the skin from UVB rays (and the  scavenging reactive oxygen species they generate), which can cause sunspots.