Hyaluron, or hyaluronic acid, is known 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 bodies – we can even produce it ourselves to a certain extent. However, as we age, the amount of hyaluronic acid in our body decreases, which leads to reduced skin elasticity. Some studies have shown that regular intake of hyaluronic acid can reduce the depth of wrinkles. Find out more about the fascinating molecule hyaluronic acid and what benefits it brings to you here.
Occurrence of hyaluronic acid
The name hyaluronic acid goes back to its discoverer, Karl Meyer. In the 1930s, he isolated for the first time a substance that consisted of many disaccharides (disaccharides) and uronic acids from the vitreous body of cattle eyes. The ancient Greek word for glass is “hyalos” and so he called the newly discovered substance hyaluronic acid. Hyaluron is the abbreviation of the word.
There is a total of around 15 grams of hyaluronic acid in our body, distributed among other things in our joints, in the connective tissue, the vitreous humor of the eye and in the Skin. About half of all hyaluronic acid is found in the skin, both in the upper epidermis and in the deeper dermis.
Here are a few more impressive numbers:
- The hyaluronic content in the skin of a 75-year-old is about only a quarter compared to that of a 19-year-old!
- Your body synthesizes around 5g Hyaluronic acid per day, with just as much being broken down again. So around a third of the total amount of hyaluronic acid in your body is broken down and rebuilt every day.
Hyaluronic acid (hyaluronic acid) is very often used in plastic surgery.
What does hyaluronic acid do?
In order to understand the role of hyaluronic acid in our body, we have to take a closer look at the molecular structure. Hyaluronic acid consists of a series of disaccharides called disaccharides. The disaccharide molecules are modified glucose building blocks that have the complicated names D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. The changes allow the individual disaccharides to be linked together like a chain. Chemically, these are called polymers. This structure makes it possible that hyaluronic acid can bind a lot of water.
Depending on how many disaccharides you link together, you get molecules of different weights. A rough distinction is made between light, also called low molecular hyaluronic acid (NMW) , and heavy, so-called high molecular hyaluronic acid (HMW) .
This distinction is important because the two molecules have different properties.
High molecular hyaluronic acid (HMW)
We speak of high molecular hyaluronic acid when it weighs 106 Dalton. That's around 100 kilodaltons (kDA). High molecular weight hyaluronic acid, as found in MoleQlar Hyaluron , is found in the articular 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 through interaction with surface molecules of our immune cells.
In addition, some double-blind, placebo-controlled studies (highest evidence) demonstrated that wrinkle depth was significantly reduced after 28 days of oral intake of high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid.
One gram of hyaluronic acid can bind around 6 liters of water. The vitreous body of our eye consists of approx. 98% water. The remaining two percent are hyaluronic acid and collagen fibers.
Low molecular hyaluronic acid (NMW)
Low molecular hyaluronic acid was also able to reduce the depth of wrinkles in some studies - but it was not as effective as high molecular hyaluronic acid. Proinflammatory (promoting) signals were more likely to be observed with low molecular weight hyaluronic acid.
In certain diseases, bronchial asthma, pulmonary fibrosis and arterial hypertension, the body's own high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid is converted into low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid. Studies have shown that this shift to more NMW promotes 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 express excessive levels of the CD44 receptor. Hyaluronic acid can bind to this receptor, making it an interesting molecule to develop targeted therapeutic approaches.
Did you know?
The hyaluronic acid is a very versatile molecule that plays an important role in aging research. It is likely to have a positive impact on some of the Hallmarks of Aging . This is one of the reasons why we also use hyaluronic acid in our innovative MoleQlar ONE set effective ingredient.
Hyaluron is an ideal lubricant in our joints due to its water binding capacity.
How do we absorb hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluron is – as mentioned before – a fairly large molecule. Too big to be completely absorbed by our intestines. For this reason, it has long been assumed that substituting hyaluronic acid by swallowing has no effect; after all, the molecule is broken down into smaller pieces in our intestines.
However, this assumption could be refuted. Hyaluronic acid 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 hyaluronic acid. In addition, high molecular weight hyaluronic acid is absorbed as a complete molecule via our lymphatic system. The results of several studies were compiled in a larger review. Some results emerged here. First, the researchers found that after taking high-molecular hyaluronic acid daily for at least four weeks, wrinkles were reduced and skin moisture improved. What's even more exciting is that a study showed that orally ingested high-molecular hyaluronic acid is stored in the connective tissue.
In a study 60 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were given 200 mg hyaluronic acid orally for 12 months. The other group received cornstarch. Both groups received a comparable sports program. After 12 months, the hyaluronic group benefited. It showed a greater reduction in pain, with those under 70 years of age particularly benefiting from 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 additive in creams, serums or gels.
Our skin owes its elasticity and strength to the 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 thus indirectly for the firmness of our skin.
As our body produces less and less hyaluronic acid as we age and the skin loses fluid, the filling substance is lost. This is what we see when our skin gets 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 aging as much as possible.
Hyaluron 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 deeply enough into the skin. It tends to bind water to 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 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 aging.
Glycine, an amino acid that we consume with food, can, according to some studies, promote collagen synthesis and, together with hyaluronic acid, prevent premature skin aging.
Glycine and hyaluronic acid together affect two important aging 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-friendly 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 lock in moisture in the skin, relieving dryness and feelings of 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 provides moisture 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 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 minimize these signs of aging.
Hyaluronic acid in skin care: this is the current state of science
Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the body that can be found in many skin care products. It is known for its ability to bind water and thereby hydrate and tighten 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 keep skin hydrated and plump.
Hyaluronic acid can strengthen the skin barrier: Through its moisturizing properties, hyaluronic acid can help strengthen the skin barrier and thus contribute to healthy, resilient skin.
Hyaluronic acid can minimize signs of aging: As we age, the skin's natural hyaluronic acid content decreases, which can lead to dryness and wrinkles. Topical applications of hyaluronic acid can help reduce these signs of aging.
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 skin plump and hydrated. In addition, hyaluronic acid is also very gentle on the skin and is usually 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 agent that draws water into the skin and helps keep it there. Urea is known for its ability to smooth 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 incorporate hyaluronic acid into your daily skin care routine
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful moisture-binding agent and can be easily integrated into your daily skin care routine.
Clean 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 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 shine.
We at MoleQlar offer pure, vegan hyaluronic acid in capsule form and of the highest quality.
Hyaluronic acid in food
Hyaluronic acid is contained in both animal and plant foods. When it comes to animal foods, hyaluronic acid is found primarily in cartilage tissue or in broths prepared from animal bones. Further sources are:
- Fish, such as mackerel or sea bream
- Potatoes
- Green leafy vegetables
- Bananas
- Almonds
- Sweet potatoes
- Cashew nuts
- Tofu
The exact amounts of hyaluronic acid in foods are not well researched. A healthy, balanced diet, in addition to sufficient supplementation, can contribute to an increased absorption of hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluron and L-glycine form a close-to-skin synergy in the MoleQlar product.
How is hyaluronic acid produced?
In the past, hyaluronic acid had to be laboriously extracted from cattle eyes or rooster combs. Since this method is not very sustainable, researchers have come up with other methods.
Today, hyaluronic acid is produced by genetically modified bacteria. Pure, vegan hyaluronic acid can be obtained in large fermentation plants. Due to the various filtration processes, the risk of allergy is also lower than with animal products. The end product is also completely GMO-free because the bacteria are completely removed.
You can also get this pure, vegan form of hyaluronic acid with us order. Together with glycine, hyaluron fights at the forefront of your metabolism and skin health!
Summary
Hyaluronic acid is an important component of our body. However, as we age, we gradually lose the ability to produce hyaluronic acid. There is reduced skin elasticity, wrinkles increase and our “lubricant” in the joints becomes less, which leads to more pain.
The supplementation with hyaluronic acid was rated as safe in many studies. Taking hyaluronic acid daily can help your skin have fewer wrinkles and reduce inflammation in the body. In this way, among other things, you support your largest organ, the skin, from premature aging.
