What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid, in which Nuvò Cosmetic snail slime creams are very rich, is an essential component of the human body and, as in all other mammals, it performs an important function especially at the level of the connective tissue.
It was discovered way back in 1934 by Karl Meyer and John Palmer, who isolated the molecule for the first time in the vitreous humor of a bovine. The two researchers came up with the name "hyaluronic acid" as hyaluronic refers to the vitreous body and acid derives from uronic acid, a component of the molecule.
In particular, this substance derives from the combination of disaccharides, glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine forming a long chain without ramifications. It is mainly concentrated in the vitreous humor but, more recently, it was discovered that it is also present in the synovial fluid, cartilage, aortic walls, tendons and umbilical cord.
It is worth underlining that part of the hyaluronic acid present in our body is in the form of retinol, a component of vitamin A. It is no coincidence that this vitamin plays an important role in eyesight and in maintaining the integrity of the skin.
The 2 types of hyaluronic acid
There are two types of hyaluronic acid: the endogenous one produced by our body machine and the one deriving from molecular extraction techniques. In fact, after scientific work demonstrated its pivotal function in the ageing process, pharmaceutical companies started to produce this molecule.
Some time ago it was mainly extracted from the rooster's comb, rich in hyaluronic acid; today, instead, it is also obtained from bacteria by means of molecular biology techniques.
Unlike other products, it is an ingredient that has no contraindications, except in cases where there is an evident hypersensitivity towards the molecule. It can be taken through face creams,, injections or orally; in fact, there are supplements based on hyaluronic acid that are considered real "elixirs of youth".
Properties of hyaluronic acid
Scientific studies have shown that the intake of hyaluronic acid , thanks to the multiple functions it performs in the body, is able to bring significant benefits to our health .
In particular, it is used for its viscoelastic , hygroscopic and rheological properties.
The increasingly in-depth knowledge of this acid has meant that it has a leading role in many therapeutic fields, such as arthrology, otological surgery, ophthalmology and cosmetic surgery.
Read also: Allantoin: benefits and cosmetic properties
Applications of hyaluronic acid
Given its remarkable beneficial properties, this acid finds many applications in the therapeutic field .
Infiltrations of hyaluronic acid are sometimes used in the treatment of degenerative pathologies and joint inflammatory processes by filling the synovial fluids located within the affected osteoarticular joints.
For the same reasons it is also used in the treatment of osteoarthritis; in fact, with advancing age, the production of this substance decreases and, in some cases arthritic events may occur. By artificially "oiling" the cartilage, it is possible to reduce the degenerative process and further strengthen the joints.
The use of this raw material is not only limited to the therapeutic field but also finds application in the cosmetics industry and in aesthetic medicine .
Let's see in detail what it is used for:
- Anti-wrinkle treatment: infiltrations with this acid are also used to reduce the small imperfections caused by the passing of time, i.e. the annoying wrinkles. Through the so-called "fillers", wrinkles are filled and the skin is given back all the substances it needs to plump up the facial tissues and provide elasticity.
- Cheekbone and lip highlighting: The same principle used to fill in wrinkles is used to highlight the features of the cheekbones and lips in aesthetic medicine.
- Scar reduction: hyaluronic acid-based creams are used to reduce scars, due to various causes, such as burns or acne. Some studies have in fact demonstrated that these creams play an important role in accelerating the healing process of a wound.
Eye surgery treatments
Thanks to its ability to bind many water molecules, hyaluronic acid mimics the behavior of some proteins present in the eyes (called mucins), helping to maintain the ocular film as well as an optimal lubrication and protection of the eye .
It would also seem to be able to accelerate the repair process of the cornea, favoring its motility, proliferation and cellular adhesion.
According to some recent studies, this substance can protect the ocular sphere from some harmful products contained in ophthalmic medicines, such as benzalkonium chloride which, being a cationic product, alters the lipid membranes of the cornea hence compromising the eye functionality.
Thanks to its properties, hyaluronic acid is also used in cataract surgery to prevent corneal loss.
Treatments to reduce hair loss
This active ingredient is also used in the trichological field as it improves hair quality and reduces hair loss by increasing the cellular metabolism and oxygenation of the hair bulb.
Hyaluronic acid, therefore, performs important functions in our body and can be a valid aid for some therapeutic treatments.
Why is hyaluronic acid so important?
As an ingredient in skincare products – serums, moisturizers, eye creams, masks, cleansers – hyaluronic acid, which is naturally present in the skin, binds to water to plump the skin and give it a glowing effect.
Skin ageing is also associated with loss of skin hydration. As we age, the formation of collagen and hyaluronic acid slows down ans so the skin dehydrates more easily.
The key molecule involved in skin moisture is hyaluronic acid, which has the ability to bind and hold water molecules.
Skin dehydration should never be underestimated. Poorly hydrated skin is unable to maintain a properly intact skin barrier, leaving the skin more vulnerable to damage from external and environmental sources. Plus, unprotected skin can let in bacteria, which can cause an infection.
Who should use hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is ideal for all skin types. As an ingredient, it is generally non-irritating and does not cause skin reactions or allergies.
Those with dry and/or more mature skin will obviously get the maximum benefit from the use of hyaluronic acid.-based products. As we age, our bodies produce less of it, so replenishing it will have a positive impact on older people.
Furthermore, by increasing the hydration of the skin, it improves its elasticity. And,since it is already naturally present in various parts of our bodies, it is highly compatible with the skin, making it a common ingredient in skincare products.
Benefits of hyaluronic acid
As we pointed out above, this substance is naturally produced by our body. The largest quantities of it are found in the skin, connective tissue and eyes.
Its main function is to retain water to keep tissues well lubricated and moist.
- 1) Makes he skin healthier and softer: About half of the hyaluronic acid in the body is present in the skin, where it binds to water to retain moisture. However, the natural ageing process and continuous exposure to external agents – such as ultraviolet radiation from the sun, smoke and air pollution – can reduce its amount. Habitual use of skin care products that contain hyaluronic acid significantly increases skin moisture and reduces dry skin in adults. Hydrated skin also reduces the appearance of wrinkles . When applied to the surface of the skin, hyaluronic acid serums can reduce wrinkles, redness and dermatitis.
- 2) Soothes Acid Reflux Symptoms: When acid reflux occurs, stomach contents are regurgitated into the throat, causing pain and damage to the lining of the esophagus. Hyaluronic acid can help soothe the damaged lining of the esophagus and speed up the recovery process.
- 3) Reduces dry eyes: Some people suffer from dry eyes due to decreased tear production or tears that evaporate too quickly. As hyaluronic acid retains moisture, it is often used to treat dry eyes.
- 4) Can Speed Up Wound Healing: Hyaluronic acid also plays a key role in wound healing. It is naturally present in the skin, but its concentrations increase in the case of wounds.
It also has antibacterial properties, so it can reduce the risk of infection when applied directly to open wounds.
Additional benefits of hyaluronic acid for the face
- It actively intervenes in cell renewal and in the production of collagen and elastin .
- Strengthens the skin giving it a smoother appearance.
- Helps maintain hydration levels and stimulates skin moisture.
- Increases the skin's antioxidant defense levels, enabling it to better protect itself from free radicals.
