Discovering the Power of Hyaluronic Acid
The human body produces a variety of substances that contribute to its growth and maintenance. However, as we age, our bodies may slow down the production of some of these naturally-occurring substances. As a result, we may notice physical changes, such as internal discomfort, slower healing processes, and/or changes in appearance. Sometimes, the best solution for correcting these deficiencies is to reintroduce the substance (or substances) our bodies are lacking.
One such substance produced by the human body, hyaluronic acid, is responsible for retaining water, primarily around the skin, joints, and eyes. Without a proper amount of hyaluronic acid in the right places, skin and eyes can dry out, and joints and tissue can become stiff and inflamed. Even those whose bodies produce enough hyaluronic acid may benefit from having more of it in their system. Let’s dive deeper into the power of hyaluronic acid to get a better grasp on its uses and potential benefits.
How Is Hyaluronic Acid Delivered?
There are several ways to introduce more hyaluronic acid into one’s body. The most common method of delivery of hyaluronic acid is via an oral supplement, which can be purchased over the counter in most pharmacies. This substance can also be used as a topical serum and is often a major component in eye drops. Lastly, hyaluronic acid is also one of many dermal fillers that can be injected into various parts of the skin, typically in the face. While every delivery method is designed to bring in more hyaluronic acid to the body, they target different parts of the body, so different outcomes are to be expected.
The Power of Hyaluronic Acid
No matter how it’s delivered, hyaluronic acid can yield several benefits to one’s body, both internally and externally. Doctors and dermatologists are still discovering new things about this substance and its true breadth of effectiveness. While there is still insufficient evidence to support some claims regarding hyaluronic acid, the substance has shown promise in a number of areas.
Keeping Skin Hydrated and Healthy
Because hyaluronic acid is the body’s main method for retaining moisture in the skin, it only makes sense that hyaluronic acid supplements and serums help keep one’s skin hydrated. Maintaining hydrated skin makes skin appear softer, smoother, and brighter. These advantages go beyond the cosmetic, though, as hydrated skin is healthy skin. By taking the right amount of hyaluronic acid, one’s skin may become better protected against inflammation, dermatitis, and possibly acne.
Reducing Signs of Aging
Those cosmetic benefits mentioned above can actually help restore the skin’s youthful appearance by reducing wrinkles and facial lines. Regularly taking supplements and/or applying hyaluronic acid serums to one’s face can, over time, smooth out wrinkles and undo some of the damage caused by the sun. Receiving injectable dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid can speed up this restorative process, though results vary from patient to patient, and skin often returns to its previous state after 6-12 months. Today, Juvederm and Restylane are two of the most common and effective dermal fillers to help remove wrinkles and facial lines.
Going Beyond the Skin
Human skin contains approximately half of the body’s overall amount of hyaluronic acid, so its application for the skin makes complete sense. However, this substance is also present in other parts of the body, such as the eyes and joints, where it acts as a lubricant and vessel for cell migration. Therefore, taking oral supplements of hyaluronic acid can possibly benefit parts of the body other than the skin. Research is still ongoing in this department, but some patients with osteoarthritis have reported a decrease in joint pain, primarily in the knees, after taking hyaluronic acid. Additionally, hyaluronic acid may be able to soothe acid reflux symptoms, eye discomfort and dryness, and reduce bladder pain.
There is still plenty to discover regarding the power of hyaluronic acid. At the very least, this naturally occurring substance can help keep skin hydrated, healthy, and youthful. If you want to know more about hyaluronic acid and think it might be right for you, Premier Dermatology Partners can give you more insight to help you make an informed decision. To learn more about our team and all the services we provide, contact us.