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Wondering where hyaluronic acid (HA) actually comes from, and whether the skincare claims stand up? HA is a complex sugar your body already makes, and it holds water in the skin. Here, Dr Prasad explains its origins, its role in skincare and injectables, and the myths surrounding its application.
The Greek Connection: A Glimpse into HA’s Origin
Hyaluronic acid derives its name from the Greek word Hyalos, which means vitreous or glass-like. Interestingly, it was initially isolated from the vitreous humour of the eye, unveiling its connection to the Greek concept of glass-like clarity. This discovery laid the foundation for understanding HA’s natural occurrence within the human body.
It is more than just a buzzword in the beauty industry. It is a complex sugar that occurs naturally in various parts of our body — in our eyes, joints, cartilage and the collagen bundles of our skin. Beyond its organic presence, scientists have learned to produce HA in laboratories, and it is now a key ingredient in skincare products.
In the realm of skincare, HA appears in different forms: as a cream or serum for topical application, and in a gel form as an injectable known as a dermal filler. These applications aim to revitalise the face, enhance the lips, or act as a skin booster for added hydration.
Separating Fact from Fiction: The Truth About Topical HA
Media hype often clouds the skincare landscape, leaving consumers uncertain about the real benefits of trendy ingredients like hyaluronic acid. At Faciem, we strive to cut through the noise, offering clarity and knowledge to help you make your own skincare choices.
In dermatology, we use the term ‘topical’ for everything applied to the skin, from moisturisers to the retinoids used in medical-grade skincare. Many HA-infused products claim to increase skin hydration and create a plumping effect. The truth lies in the size of the HA molecules, or of its derivative, sodium hyaluronate. While larger molecules may sit on the skin’s surface, providing a temporary hydration boost, smaller molecules penetrate deeper and can offer more lasting benefits. The key is to stimulate the skin to produce its own HA, which supports longer-term hydration and plumpness.
The Art of Boosting HA: Your Skin’s Natural Harmony
True hydration originates from the dermis, below the epidermis. The fibroblast, a crucial dermal cell, produces hyaluronic acid when active. Encouraging this natural process is the most reliable way to increase HA within the skin, and newer nano-sized HA molecules penetrate deeper, which can improve the effect.
Vitamin A, a cornerstone in dermatology, plays a pivotal role in activating fibroblast cells and improving dermal hydration. A well-functioning epidermis retains water within the dermis, limiting trans-epidermal water loss and promoting soft, smooth, well-hydrated skin.
However, it is a delicate symphony, and too much of a good thing can have adverse effects. Excessive use of externally applied HA serums may lead to skin irritation and counter-productively switch off fibroblast activity, causing the very dryness you were trying to treat. Achieving the right balance requires expert guidance and personalised advice.
As I conclude, remember that skincare is a science, and informed choices lead to better decisions for your skin. Stay tuned for more blogs, covering topics from looking after your skin to aesthetic innovations such as polynucleotide skin boosters.
Until then, goodbye, and keep your skincare elevated. When you are ready, get in touch with the clinic — I look forward to seeing you.
Dr Prasad xx
