INCI: Sodium Hyaluronate
Natural polysaccharide that binds water up to 1000 times its own weight. Topical application creates a surface humectant effect without dermal penetration.
Topical application
AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints.
Surface humectant effect is well established. Data on dermal penetration and long-term wrinkle reduction remain conflicting: large HA molecules (>50 kDa) do not penetrate the stratum corneum. Low-molecular-weight fractions (<50 kDa) penetrate better but may cause irritation at high concentrations.
Injectable
AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints.
Cross-linked hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are the gold standard for contouring and biorevitalization. Multicenter clinical trials confirm efficacy and safety for wrinkle correction, volume restoration, and skin texture improvement.
Hyaluronic Acid (INCI Sodium Hyaluronate – sodium salt) is a glycosaminoglycan, a natural component of the dermis, synovial fluid, and vitreous body. In skin, 1 g of hyaluronic acid retains up to 1000 g of water. Dermal content drops by 50% by age 50. Molecular forms. High molecular weight (HMW, >1000 kDa) – forms a film on the skin surface, does not penetrate, hydrates upper layers. Low molecular weight (LMW, 50-300 kDa) – penetrates the epidermis, stimulates collagen synthesis. Ultra-low molecular weight (ULMW, 5-50 kDa) – penetrates deeper but may trigger pro-inflammatory effects on dry skin. Quality products use multi-MW blends. Where applied. Serums and creams (0.1-2%), masks, injectable fillers (non-crosslinked for bio-revitalization, crosslinked for fillers – Juvederm, Restylane), ophthalmics (Healon), intra-articular injections for osteoarthritis (Synvisc). Evidence base. Studies (Pavicic 2011, Bukhari 2018) showed 30-40% moisturization gains over 8 weeks at 0.5-1%. Multi-MW formulas outperform single-MW. HA does not replace cream – it works as a moisture trap; an occlusive (lipids, ceramides, dimethicone) must go on top. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Topical allergic reactions are extremely rare (more common with injectables due to stabilizers). Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage topically. Injectable fillers in pregnancy by Spanish SEME 2022 consensus are not done (theoretical inflammatory risk); non-crosslinked bio-revitalization – individualized decision. Dry-skin hack. Apply to damp skin (after cleansing, toner, or thermal water) – HA pulls moisture from the nearest source. On dry skin in dry air it may work in reverse, drawing water from the dermis.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeCategory
Moisturizing
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Post-retinoid recovery
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Fungal acne safe
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Perioral dermatitis safe
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Post-procedure recovery
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Post-sunburn repair
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The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Hyaluronic Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Hyaluronic Acid suits: oily, combination, sensitive, normal, dry.
Natural polysaccharide that binds water up to 1000 times its own weight.
The INCI name is Sodium Hyaluronate. It may also appear as: Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer.
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