Topical hyaluronic acid (HA) has gained significant popularity in the skincare industry due to its remarkable hydrating properties and anti-aging effects. As a naturally occurring substance in the body, HA plays a crucial role in maintaining skin moisture and elasticity. This blog delves into what hyaluronic acid is, the various forms available in cosmetics, the efficacy of different molecular weights, and notable brands utilizing low molecular weight HA.

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan, a type of long-chain sugar molecule found throughout connective tissues in the body, particularly in the skin, cartilage, and eyes. Its ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water makes it an exceptional humectant that attracts moisture to the skin’s surface. However, as we age, natural levels of HA decline, leading to dryness and a loss of elasticity. Topical application of HA can help replenish moisture levels, resulting in smoother and more youthful-looking skin.

Different Forms of Hyaluronic Acid in Cosmetics

Hyaluronic acid is available in various forms and molecular weights, each offering unique benefits:

1. High Molecular Weight have a molecular weight greater than 1,000 kDa. They remain on the skin’s surface, forming a moisture-retaining barrier. However, it has limited penetration into deeper skin layers.
2. Low Molecular Weight HA ranges from 10 kDa to 250 kDa in weight and penetrate both the epidermis and dermis, offering deeper hydration and stimulating collagen production.
3. Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid has network of HA molecules and is used in dermal fillers, it provides immediate volume and wrinkle-smoothing effects.
4. Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid contain fragmented HA broken down into smaller pieces to enhance penetration and promote skin regeneration.
5. Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid combines various sizes of HA molecules and provides hydration at multiple skin depths, suitable for all skin types.
6. Vegetable Hyaluronic Acid are derived from plant sources and is ideal for vegan skincare products.
7. Sodium Hyaluronate is a sodium salt of HA with better stability and lower molecular weight and more easily absorbed by the skin, offering effective hydration.

Benefits of Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid (LMW-HA)

LMW-HA is particularly beneficial for various skin types due to its unique ability to penetrate effectively. Here’s how it benefits different skin types:

1. Dry Skin: Enhances hydration levels by penetrating deeper skin layers, alleviating dryness, and improving texture.
2. Mature Skin: Stimulates collagen production, improves elasticity, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Oily Skin: Provides hydration without leaving a heavy residue, balancing moisture levels without clogging pores.
4. Sensitive Skin: Calms irritation, reduces redness, and provides gentle hydration with anti-inflammatory properties.

Notable Brands Utilizing Low Molecular Weight HA

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Combines high and low molecular weight HA for surface and deep hydration at an affordable price.

HA Type: Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, and Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

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CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Features Sodium Hyaluronate, ceramides, and vitamin B5 to restore the skin barrier and maintain hydration.

HA type: Sodium Hyaluronate

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Isdinceutics Hyaluronic Concentrate

Has LMW HA along with anti-ageing peptides and salicylci acid suitable for oily and senstve skin type.

HA type: Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate,

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COSRX The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum

Has Sodium Hyaluronate(3%) along with maino acid complex and ceramides fpr deep hydration and skin barrier repair.

HA type: Sodium Hyaluronate(3%)

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Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Booster Serum

Lightweight serum featuring mineral-rich volacanic water and Sodium Hyaluronate for hydration and barrier strengthening.

HA type: Sodium Hyaluronate

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La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Serum

Combines LMW-HA with vitamin B5 and madecassoside to enhance hydration and elasticity.

HA type: Sodium Hyaluronate, Hudrolysed HA

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LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Serum

BEST LUXURY HA SERUM

Utilizes very LMW-HA (0.5 KdA) along with pepetidesand ferment extarcts to deliver deep hydration for a revitalized look.

HA type: Smallest Blue HA (0.5kDa).

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L’Oreal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum 

BEST AFFORDABLE HA SERUM

Has 1.5% of HA in 3 sizes along with Vitamin C for skin plumping and skin brighteing action.

HA TYPE: A scientifically formulated blend of 3 types of Hyaluronic Acid combining 3 types of with size ranging from Marcro to Micro HA.

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Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster

Ultra-concentrated formula with LMW-HA, ceramides, and plant extracts for deep hydration.

HA TYPE: Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid

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Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid, particularly its low molecular weight forms, is a game-changer in skincare. Whether addressing dryness, aging, or sensitive skin, it offers versatile benefits across various skin types. Explore the options above to find the perfect HA-based product for your skincare routine and enjoy hydrated, healthier-looking skin.

REFERENCES

Recent Advances of Hyaluronan for Skin Delivery: From Structure to Fabrication Strategies and Applications

Human skin penetration of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights as probed by Raman spectroscopy

Advantages of Hyaluronic Acid and Its Combination with Other Bioactive Ingredients in Cosmeceuticals

Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence

Skin Penetration Ability of 12 Hyaluronic Acids with Different Molecular Weights After Topical Application