Hyaluron is a gel-like substance that is supposed to provide moisture. It is marketed as a beauty secret that is supposed to stop the signs of aging on the skin.
What is it and what functions does hyaluronic acid have in the body?
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluron is also known as hyaluronic acid . It is a polysaccharide, i.e. a long carbohydrate molecule that can bind a lot of water: 1g of hyaluronic acid can bind up to 6 liters of water . [1] , [2] It is a component of connective tissue and is found primarily in cartilage, synovial fluid, the vitreous humor of the eye and in the skin. Hyaluron is also important for cell division and cell migration , i.e. for the ability of cells to move in the body. [3]
The body's own production of hyaluronic acid decreases with age . [4] This is considered to be the reason why the skin loses its elasticity , becomes drier and fine lines and wrinkles appear . [5]
As a component of synovial fluid, hyaluronic acid serves as a lubricant in the joints. It increases the viscosity, which mechanically protects the joints. The decrease in hyaluronic acid production is also suspected to be a cause of joint problems in old age . [6]
Application in cosmetics
Hyaluronic acid is a common ingredient in cosmetic products . It can be found in gels, creams, serums and masks. Hyaluronic acid is also available as an injection for wrinkles and lips. As an alternative to injections, there is the hyaluronic pen : here, hyaluronic acid is injected under the skin using high pressure. Hyaluronic acid that is taken orally is said to enter the skin from the inside via the metabolism in a similar way.
The idea behind both approaches is to give the skin back the hyaluronic acid it is missing, thereby increasing the skin's moisture content and reducing wrinkles .
Although there are individual studies that suggest that hyaluronic acid could make the skin look younger and smoother, this has not been proven according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). [7]
Application in medicine
Hyaluron is also used in medicine . It is injected into joints damaged by arthrosis . [8]
It is also used in wound care to improve wound healing. [9]
Nasal sprays also often contain hyaluronic acid to counteract drying of the mucous membranes. [10]
Hyaluronic acid in eye drops is said to help stabilize the tear film. [11] When the tear film breaks, the fluid evaporates easily, causing the eyes to dry out.
Side effects of hyaluronic acid
Since hyaluronic acid is a substance produced naturally by the body, it is generally well tolerated and side effects are very rare.
If allergic reactions or other problems occur, this is usually not due to hyaluronic acid but to other ingredients in the preparations. With hyaluronic acid injections, the injection can cause a reaction.
However, people who have or have had cancer in the past should be cautious with hyaluronic acid supplements because hyaluronic acid plays a role in cell migration , which enables cancer cells to move around the body and form metastases . [12]
Buy Hyaluron
When it comes to hyaluronic acid preparations, you should pay close attention to the ingredients . Many products contain artificial preservatives , synthetic binding agents and separating agents. Capsules for oral use also often contain sweeteners, artificial flavors, colors and other additives .
Conclusion: Hyaluron has important functions in connective tissue and skin
Hyaluron is an important component of connective tissue and is found primarily in synovial fluid, cartilage, the vitreous body in the eye and in the skin . The body can produce it itself, but production decreases with age. Due to its ability to bind large amounts of water , hyaluronic acid is very popular in the cosmetics industry . It is also used in the medical field .
[1] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Hyaluronic-Acid
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482440/
[4] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF03323875
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30287361/
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4729158/
[7] https://www.efsa.europa.eu/de/efsajournal/pub/2806
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5814393/
[9] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877441/
[10] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25104962/
[11] https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/501712
[12] https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007%2F978-4-431-54841-6_191
