A-Z — Hyaluronic Acid

Glycosaminoglycans — polysaccharides that are major components of the extra cellular matrix (ECM) and connective tissues. They are used in cosmetics for their ability to increase hydration, elasticity and pliability of the skin. Glycosaminoglycans are credited with film-forming, moisturizing, and firming properties. They reportedly leave the skin smooth, velvety soft and minimize wrinkle appearance. They are easily accepted by the skin because of their high charge and affinity. This group of complex materials, formerly identified as mucopolysaccharides, includes such individual components as hyaluronic acid, chondroitin, chondroitin sulfate, chondroitin 6-sulfate, dermatan sulfate, heparin, and heparin sulfate. Glycosaminoglycans are derived from cartilaginous...

Hyaluronic acid — A glycosaminoglycan component, Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance (in the dermis) and is found throughout the body. It plays an important role in tissue hydration, lubrication, cellular function, and the distribution of nutrients. Its water-absorption abilities and large molecular structure allow the epidermis to achieve greater suppleness, proper plasticity, and turgor.   When applied to the skin, HA forms a viscoelastic film in a manner similar to the way it holds water in the intercellular matrix of dermal connective tissues. This performance and behavior suggests that HA makes an ideal moisturizer base, allowing for the...

Chemically speaking, mucopolysaccharide is packed with nutrients including hyaluronic acid, glycoprotein enzymes, proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, antimicrobial and copper peptides, all of which are commonly used in beauty products and proven to be beneficial for the skin.  Translation…a bunch of good-for-the-skin stuff.  Good research to boot: 1)  A 2007 study examined the molecular basis for the regeneration properties.  It found that mucopolysaccharide has serious antioxidant properties thanks to two antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and glutathione). Second, it induced fibroblast proliferation, important during wound healing. Third, it was found to downregulate degradative collagenase enzymes that destroy skin-firming collagen. Serious wound healing and anti-aging potential, and 2) A 2013 anti-aging...

Sodium Hyaluronate (See Hyaluronic Acid) — the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid and is the most commonly used form. Used as a humectant to increase moisture in the skin; is capable of binding 1,800 times its own weight in water.