Hyaluron, or hyaluronic acid, is familiar to many from plastic surgery, where the substance has long been used as a "wrinkle filler" for the skin. The molecule occurs naturally in our body - we can even produce it ourselves to a certain extent. However, as we age, the amount of hyaluronic acid in our bodies decreases, which leads to reduced skin elasticity. Some studies have shown that a regular supply of hyaluronic acid can reduce the depth of wrinkles. Find out more about the fascinating molecule hyaluronic acid and what benefits it has for you.
Occurrence of hyaluron
The name hyaluronic acid goes back to its discoverer Karl Meyer. In the 1930s, he isolated a substance from the vitreous body of bovine eyes for the first time, which consisted of many disacharides and uronic acids. The ancient Greek word for glass is "hyalos" and so he named the newly discovered substance hyaluronic acid. Hyaluron is the abbreviation of the word.
Our body contains a total of around 15 grams of hyaluronic acid, distributed in our joints, connective tissue, the vitreous body of the eye and in the skin. Around half of all hyaluron is found in the skin, both in the upper epidermis and in the deeper dermis.
Here are a few more impressive figures:
- The hyaluronic acid content in the skin of a 75-year-old is about a quarter of that of a 19-year-old person!
- Your body synthesizes about 5g of hyaluronic acid per day, with just as much being broken down again. So about a third of the total amount of hyaluronic acid in your body is broken down and built up again every day.
Hyaluronic acid (hyaluronan) is used very frequently in plastic surgery.
What does hyaluronic acid do?
To understand the role of hyaluronic acid in our body, we need to take a closer look at its molecular structure. Hyaluronic acid consists of a series of disaccharides. The disaccharides are modified glucose building blocks with the complicated names D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. The modifications allow the individual disaccharides to be linked together like a chain. This is known chemically as polymers. This structure makes it possible for hyaluron to bind a lot of water.
Depending on how many disaccharides are linked together, molecules of different weights are obtained. A rough distinction is made between light, also known as low molecular weight hyaluronan (NMW) and heavy, so-called high molecular weight hyaluronan (HMW).
This distinction is important as the two molecules have different properties.
High molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW)
High molecular weight hyaluron is defined as a weight of 10 6 daltons or more. This is approximately 100 kilodaltons (kDA). High molecular weight hyaluron, as found in MOLEQLAR Hyaluron , is found in joint cartilage and synovial fluid as a "lubricant". Some studies have also shown that it has a positive effect on wound healing. It supports the connective tissue and reduces inflammation in the body by interacting with the surface molecules of our immune cells.
In addition, several double-blind, placebo-controlled studies (highest level of evidence) have shown that wrinkle depth was significantly reduced after 28 days of oral intake of high-molecular hyaluronic acid.
One gram of hyaluronic acid can bind about 6 liters of water. The vitreous body of our eye consists of around 98% water. The remaining two percent are hyaluronic acid and collagen fibers.
Low molecular weight hyaluronan (NMW)
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid was also able to reduce wrinkle depth in some studies - but it was not as effective as high molecular weight hyaluronic acid. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid was more likely to produce proinflammatory signals.
In certain diseases, bronchial asthma, pulmonary fibrosis and arterial hypertension, the body's own high molecular weight hyaluron is converted into low molecular weight hyaluron. Studies have shown that this shift to more NMW favors an increased inflammatory reaction.
Hyaluron in science and research
Hyaluron is used in many areas of medicine due to its unique biological and chemical properties. Here are some examples:
- as a "carrier substance" in pharmaceuticals.
- as a topical application in wound healing
- in eye surgery to protect the eye
- as a "lubricant" in the joint
- as an ingredient in nasal sprays to reduce dryness
There are many other areas in which hyaluronic acid is used. One area of research, for example, is the use of hyaluronic acid as a "carrier" molecule for cancer drugs. It has been shown that some tumors over-express the receptor CD44. Hyaluronic acid can bind to this receptor, which makes it an interesting molecule for developing targeted therapeutic approaches.
Did you know?
Hyaluronic acid is a very versatile molecule that plays an important role in ageing research. It probably has a positive effect on some of the hallmarks of aging . This is one of the reasons why we also use hyaluronic acid as an effective ingredient in our innovative MoleQlar ONE
Hyaluron is an ideal lubricant in our joints due to its water-binding capacities.
How do we absorb hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluron is - as previously mentioned - a fairly large molecule. Too large to be fully absorbed by our intestines. For this reason, it has long been assumed that swallowing hyaluronic acid as a substitute would not be beneficial, as the molecule is broken down into smaller pieces in our intestines.
However, this assumption has been disproved. Hyaluron is broken down into smaller fragments in our intestines. However, these fragments find their way into our connective tissue and activate the same signaling pathways as hyaluron. In addition, high molecular weight hyaluron is absorbed as a complete molecule via our lymphatic system. In a larger review, the results of several studies were compiled. This revealed several results. Firstly, the researchers found that after at least four weeks of daily intake of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, wrinkles were reduced and skin hydration improved. Even more exciting is that a study has shown that orally ingested high-molecular hyaluronan is deposited in the connective tract.
In a study 60 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were given 200mg hyaluron orally for 12 months. The other group was given corn starch. Both groups were given a comparable sports program. After 12 months, the hyaluron group benefited. They showed a greater reduction in pain, with those under 70 years of age benefiting in particular from the daily intake .
Hyaluron typically has a very viscous consistency in skin care products.
Hyaluron in the cosmetics industry
Hyaluron has long been known in the cosmetics industry as an ingredient in creams, serums or gels.
Our skin owes its elasticity and firmness to connective tissue. The main components are collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. Due to its water-binding ability, hyaluronic acid is responsible for the moisture content and therefore indirectly for the firmness of our skin.
As our body produces less and less hyaluronic acid as we age and the skin loses moisture, this leads to a loss of filling substance. We see this when our skin develops wrinkles. Our skin is often a reflection of our "perceived" age. Our largest organ is visible to everyone around us, which is why we want to avoid skin ageing as much as possible.
Hyaluronic gels promise to compensate for this loss of fluid. However, the study situation here is not clear. It is very likely that hyaluronic acid applied to the skin cannot penetrate deep enough into the skin . It tends to bind the water on the skin. The only option, apart from oral supplementation, is to inject the skin with hyaluronic acid. Depending on the hyaluronic acid used, the effect lasts for 6 to 24 months.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our skin. As we age, our body reduces collagen synthesis, similar to hyaluronic acid. This also contributes to skin ageing.
Glycine, an amino acidthat we take in with food, can, according to some studies, promote collagen synthesis and thus, together with hyaluron, prevent premature skin ageing.
Glycine and hyaluron together act on two important ageing processes in the skin and can have positive effects on your skin health. Both molecules occur together in MOLEQLAR Hyaluron
With the Skin Glow Essentials Bundle, you combine the power of all three molecules: Hyaluronic acid, collagen and glycine for a skin-hugging synergy
Hyaluronic acid for different skin types: What you should know
There are different types of hyaluronic acid products that are tailored to different skin types.
Dry skin: Hyaluronic acid can help to lock moisture into the skin, relieving dryness and tightness. It is particularly effective when applied to damp skin and sealed with a moisturizing cream.
Oily skin: People with oily skin can also benefit from hyaluronic acid, as it moisturizes without clogging pores or leaving an oily film on the skin.
Sensitive skin: Hyaluronic acid is very gentle on the skin and can therefore also be used on sensitive skin. It can help to strengthen the skin barrier and minimize irritation.
"Old" skin: As we age, the skin's natural hyaluronic acid content decreases, which can lead to dryness and the formation of wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid products can help to minimize these signs of skin ageing.
Hyaluronic acid in skincare: the current state of science
Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the body that can be found in many skincare products. It is known for its ability to bind water and thereby hydrate and firm the skin.
Hyaluronic acid can bind moisture: Hyaluronic acid has the ability to bind up to 1000 times its own weight in water . This makes it an excellent moisturizer and helps to keep the skin hydrated and plump.
Hyaluronic acid can strengthen the skin barrier: Thanks to its moisturizing properties, hyaluronic acid can help strengthen the skin barrier, contributing to healthy, resilient skin.
Hyaluronic acid can minimize signs of skin aging: As we age, the skin's natural hyaluronic acid content decreases, which can lead to dryness and wrinkling. Topical applications of hyaluronic acid can help to reduce these signs of ageing.
Hyaluronic acid is safe for most skin types: Hyaluronic acid is very gentle on the skin and is usually well tolerated, making it a good option for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Hyaluronic acid is one of the most effective moisturizers. It can store 1000 times its own weight in water
Hyaluronic acid vs. other moisturizers: a comparison
Compared to other moisturizing ingredients , hyaluronic acid provides more intense and longer-lasting hydration . It draws water into the skin and holds it there, helping to keep the skin plump and hydrated. In addition, hyaluronic acid is also very gentle on the skin and is generally well tolerated, making it a good option for all skin types.
Other commonly used moisturizing ingredients include glycerin, urea, aloe vera and various oils. Glycerin is another highly hygroscopic ingredient that draws water into the skin and helps to keep it there. Urea is known for its ability to smooth the skin and remove dead skin cells while moisturizing.
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties and can be particularly beneficial for dry or irritated skin. Oils, such as jojoba oil or argan oil, can also moisturize and help strengthen the skin barrier.
How to integrate hyaluronic acid into your daily skincare routine
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful moisturizer and can easily be incorporated into your daily skincare routine.
Cleanse your face thoroughly: Before applying hyaluronic acid, it is important to cleanse your face to remove excess oil and dirt. This allows the hyaluronic acid to be better absorbed by the skin.
Apply to damp skin: Hyaluronic acid binds moisture and draws it into the skin. Therefore, it is best to apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin to maximize its moisturizing properties.
Seal with a moisturizer: After applying hyaluronic acid, you should always apply a moisturizing cream or lotion. This helps to lock in the moisture and improve the effectiveness of the hyaluronic acid.
Regular use: For optimal results, you should use hyaluronic acid products regularly. Many experts recommend using them twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
Combine with other ingredients: Hyaluronic acid can be combined well with other ingredients in your skincare routine. For example, combining hyaluronic acid with vitamin C can help improve skin brightness and radiance.
At MoleQlar we offer pure, vegan hyaluronic acid in capsule form and of the highest quality.
Hyaluronic acid in the diet
Hyaluronic acid is found in both animal and plant-based foods. In animal foods, hyaluronic acid is mainly found in cartilage tissue or in broths prepared from animal bones. Further sources are:
- Fish, such as mackerel or sea bream
- Kartoffeln
- Grünes Blattgemüse
- Bananen
- Mandeln
- Süßkartoffeln
- Cashewkerne
- Tofu
The exact amounts of hyaluronic acid in foods are not well researched. A healthy, balanced diet, in addition to adequate supplementation, can contribute to an increased intake of hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluron and L-glycine form a synergy close to the skin in the MoleQlar product.
How is hyaluron produced
In the past, hyaluronic acid had to be laboriously extracted from bovine eyes or cockscombs. As this method is not very sustainable, researchers have come up with other methods.
Nowadays, hyaluronic acid is produced using genetically modified bacteria. Pure, vegan hyaluronic acid can thus be obtained in large fermentation plants. Due to the various filtration processes, the risk of allergies is also lower than with animal products . The end product is also completely GMO-free because the bacteria are completely removed.
This pure, vegan form of hyaluronic acid can also be ordered from us . Together with glycine, hyaluronic acid fights on the front line of your metabolic and skin health!
Zusammenfassung
Hyaluronic acid is an important component of our body. However, as we age, we gradually lose the ability to produce hyaluronic acid. This results in reduced skin elasticity, wrinkles increase and our "lubricant" in the joints becomes less, which leads to more pain.
Supplementation with hyaluronic acid has been found to be safe in many studies. Taking hyaluronic acid daily can help to reduce wrinkles on your skin and reduce inflammation in the body. Among other things, this helps to protect your largest organ, the skin, from premature ageing.
