Guide to Sodium Hyaluronate and Hyaluronic Acid

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule that is naturally found in the body, specifically the skin which holds about 50% of our hyaluronic acid. It’s also present in our eyes, joints, and connective tissues and is responsible for keeping the skin, eyes,  and joints moisturized and lubricated.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Skin

Like other carbohydrates/sugars, hyaluronic acid is a humectant which means it attracts and holds onto water. It can hold up to one thousand times its weight in water which makes it incredibly beneficial when it comes to hydrating the skin. Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture to skin cells which helps reduce signs of dehydration like dryness, itchiness, tightness, and flakiness.

Hyaluronic Acid for Anti Aging

As we age, our skin loses moisture and elasticity due to the depletion of our natural hyaluronic acid and the breakdown of collagen and elastin cells leading to fine lines and wrinkles. This is inevitable, but overexposure to UV rays can expedite the aging process. 

Since it holds on to water, hyaluronic acid helps plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles for a more youthful complexion. Additionally, hyaluronic acid is an antioxidant which can help fight free radical damage from UV rays and environmental stressors like pollution; both of which can further exacerbate signs of aging.

Does Hyaluronic Acid Help Eczema 

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is characterized by red, itchy, dry skin that is due to a weakened skin barrier. Without a strong barrier, your skin isn’t as proficient at retaining moisture. Hyaluronic acid serums and other skin care products help give the skin a boost of hydration that it needs.

Hyaluronic acid is one of the best skin care ingredients for eczema. It’s also a better alternative to other acids like salicylic acid or retinol which are beneficial for anti-aging and skin renewal, but commonly trigger symptoms of eczema.

What Skin Types Does Hyaluronic Acid Work For?

Sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are both suitable for all skin types Those with oily skin may worry about using hydrating ingredients, but all skin types need  hydration. Not just dry skin. Remember that there is a difference between hydration and moisture when it comes to skin care. While skin moisture that comes from sebum (oil) can leave a greasy appearance, hydration that comes from water is responsible for your skin’s elasticity and natural radiance. Regardless of your skin type, keeping your skin hydrated is crucial if you want to prevent a dull, lifeless appearance. 

For those with sensitive skin or contact allergies, allergic reactions to sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are few and far between, so there are few side effects associated with using skin care products that use these ingredients.

Difference Between Sodium Hyaluronate and Hyaluronic Acid 

Sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are made up of the same compounds, but sodium hyaluronate is in salt form. Being in salt form makes sodium hyaluronate less likely to oxidize (lose electrons and change the makeup of the product) but both ingredients share the same wealth of benefits.

They do interact differently with the skin, however. Sodium hyaluronate has lower molecular weight and penetrates the skin deeper whereas hyaluronic acid has larger molecules that sit on top of the skin. Basically, this means that your skin absorbs sodium hyaluronate better. There is room for both in your skin care routine – sodium hyaluronate is great for hydrating the deeper levels of skin, and hyaluronic acid is optimal for sitting atop the skin and holding in moisture.

Sodium Hyaluronate is also gentler and better suited for sensitive skin.

Using Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate in Your Skin Care Routine

Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate work well in many aspects of your daily skin care regimen. It can be found in a number of topical products including:

• Hydrating Serums
• Eye Creams and Gels
• Cleansers
• Moisturizers
• Face Masks
• Toners

Try these Sodium Hyaluronate Products from Cleure

Tips for Applying Sodium Hyaluronate

 

• Keep the environment around you moist with a humidifier so your skin and the hyaluronic acid have moisture to attract
• Apply skin care products while your skin is still slightly damp after showering or washing your face so that the hyaluronic acid can draw the extra moisture into your skin. 
• Combine it with an occlusive ingredient like shea butter, cocoa butter, or carnauba wax which help prevent moisture evaporating into the air.