Approaching Chemistry: Is Sodium Hyaluronate the Same as Hyaluronic Acid

Have you ever paid attention to the ingredient list in skincare products? Have you found ingredients such as sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid in moisturizing products? Is sodium hyaluronate the same as hyaluronic acid? Let’s carefully explore these two components.

Introduction of sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid

1. sodium hyaluronate

Sodium hyaluronate is an inherent component in the human body, which is widely present in tissues and organs such as the placenta, amniotic fluid, articular cartilage, and dermis. It is mainly distributed in the cytoplasm and intercellular space, playing a role in lubrication and nourishment. This liquid serves as a lubricant and shock absorber between two bones. It can be used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.

It plays the most important moisturizing role in cosmetics, as it can help regulate skin moisture content. Compared with other moisturizing agents, the relative humidity of the surrounding environment has a smaller impact on their moisturizing properties. This acid can deeply hydrate, enhance skin thickness, and smooth wrinkles.

Avoid exercising for at least 48 hours after injecting hyaluronic acid, whether it is intense or not, such as jogging or football. At the same time, it is important to avoid carrying heavy loads or standing for more than an hour.

2. hyaluronic acid

It is also known as hyaluronic acid. Widely used in various ophthalmic surgeries, it can also be used to treat arthritis and accelerate wound healing. Applying it to cosmetics can moisturize and remove wrinkles.

3. Is sodium hyaluronate the same as hyaluronic acid?

The two are often used interchangeably in the beauty industry. But from the perspective of chemical technology, the two are different things, only with the same purpose. Sodium hyaluronate is a water-soluble salt form of hyaluronic acid. Both have permeability, but the former has stronger permeability. Moreover, the former is less prone to oxidation and more stable. The former hydrates the skin’s deep layers, while the latter remains on the skin’s surface in order to prevent water loss.

Applications of sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid

1. sodium hyaluronate

lEye drops for the treatment of dry eye syndrome: These drops may lubricate and hydrate the eyes.

lPreventing skin aging: It functions as a moisturizer to help keep the skin moisturized and prevent dryness and peeling by maintaining moisture.

lRestoring and maintaining healthy skin barriers requires the repair of damaged skin barriers. Inflammation may result from the skin’s moisture loss.

lInflammation reduction: According to a 2013 study, sodium hyaluronate-containing lotions can reduce skin irritation.

lReduce wrinkles: It has the ability to instantly make the skin supple, aid in the reduction of wrinkles, and improve the appearance of aging.

lSkin balance restoration can assist with acne by improving skin. It is less prone to acne and does not clog pores. It feels light and doesn't leave behind a cake of greasy residue.

lHelps treat eczema: This substance is gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin and is helpful for extremely dry skin because of this.

lSodium hyaluronate can help the skin replace water following laser or microneedle treatment, which might make it more fragile.

2. hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate have highly comparable uses and effects. It can hydrate, lubricate, smooth out wrinkles on the skin, and quicken the healing of wounds. It is created by fermenting specific strains of bacteria and is extremely safe to consume, even when pregnant or nursing.

Conclusion

Is sodium hyaluronate the same as hyaluronic acid? The answer is no. In conclusion, the molecular size and stability of the two are what distinguish them most from one another. In comparison to hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate has a lower molecular weight and greater penetration. It is more stable and resistant to oxidation. All of this may be used to create cosmetics that moisturize skin, reduce wrinkles, and cure dry eyes.

Remember that hyaluronic acid only works by soaking up water from the air. Apply it when your skin is still somewhat damp if you reside in a very dry area with low air humidity, and then follow up with a moisturizer or oil to seal in moisture.