Most people first hear about hyaluronic acid when searching for anti-ageing skincare. Often called the "elixir of youth," this substance has become a staple in the cosmetics industry. Yet hyaluronic acid is far more than a beauty ingredient — it plays a vital role throughout the body, from joint lubrication to eye health. Understanding how it works, where it is used, and when to exercise caution can help you make informed decisions about supplementation.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid and Where Does It Come From
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs naturally in the human body, primarily in the form of sodium hyaluronate. The highest concentrations are found in the skin, the vitreous body of the eye, and synovial (joint) fluid. It is also a component of connective tissue, body fluids, and the walls of blood vessels.
Its primary function is binding and retaining water — a single molecule of hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in moisture. The body continuously produces hyaluronic acid to replace what naturally breaks down each day. However, from around the mid-twenties onward, production gradually declines. Over time, this leads to tissue degeneration in the areas where hyaluronic acid is most concentrated, resulting in visible signs of ageing such as loss of skin elasticity and firmness.
Historically, hyaluronic acid was extracted from animal tissues, including shark skin, bovine eyeballs, and rooster combs. While effective, animal-derived hyaluronic acid sometimes triggered allergic reactions. Today, the primary source is bacterial fermentation using strains of Streptococcus equi, which produces a purer, safer form suitable for both cosmetic and dietary supplement applications.
How Hyaluronic Acid Works in the Body
Together with collagen, hyaluronic acid is one of the two main structural components of human skin. Approximately half of the body's total hyaluronic acid is located in the dermis and the intercellular spaces. It is responsible for maintaining proper skin hydration and protecting collagen fibres from degradation. As long as hyaluronic acid levels remain adequate, the skin retains its elasticity and resistance to wrinkle formation.
In the eye, hyaluronic acid is essential for maintaining the structure and function of the vitreous body. It ensures the viscoelastic properties of the eye and contributes to a healthy tear film — which is why it features prominently in eye drops and contact lens solutions. For those interested in supporting their vision, our eye and vision supplements offer a range of carefully selected options.
Hyaluronic acid also plays a critical role in joint health. Found in high concentrations in synovial fluid, it is responsible for the viscoelastic properties that allow joints to move smoothly. It supports cartilage resilience and cushions the joint during movement. When hyaluronic acid levels in the joints decrease, it may contribute to stiffness and reduced mobility — common signs of joint degeneration.
[tip:A single gram of hyaluronic acid can bind up to six litres of water, which explains why it is so effective at keeping skin plump and joints lubricated.]Applications of Hyaluronic Acid
Skincare and Aesthetic Medicine
Hyaluronic acid is one of the most widely used ingredients in anti-ageing skincare. It appears in moisturisers, serums, and sheet masks designed to hydrate and plump the skin. In aesthetic medicine, dermal filler treatments involve injecting hyaluronic acid-based preparations beneath the skin to fill wrinkles and restore volume. These effects are temporary — typically lasting 6 to 12 months — because the body naturally breaks down the substance over time, meaning treatments need to be repeated regularly.
Less commonly known is the use of hyaluronic acid in wound healing, where it may support the recovery of skin ulcers and burns.
Ophthalmology
Hyaluronic acid's water-binding capacity makes it invaluable in eye care. It forms the basis of many contact lens solutions and lubricating eye drops. These products help soothe irritation caused by contact lens wear and dry eye syndrome, while also supporting the structure of the tear film and binding potentially harmful substances.
Joint and Bone Health
In orthopaedics, hyaluronic acid injections are used to supplement depleted synovial fluid in people with joint conditions. Oral supplementation with hyaluronic acid has also become increasingly popular as a way to support joint mobility and comfort from within. Explore our bone, joint and cartilage supplements to find products that combine hyaluronic acid with other joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM.
[products:now-foods-hyaluronic-acid-double-strength-100-mg-120-veg-capsules, solgar-glucosamine-hyaluronic-acid-chondroitin-msm-120-tablets, formeds-bicaps-hyaluronic-acid-60-capsules, hepatica-hyaluronic-acid-low-molecular-weight-90-capsules, aliness-hyaluronic-acid-150-mcg-100-tablets, yango-hyaluronic-acid-pro-beauty-90-capsules]Hyaluronic Acid in Skincare Products
Beyond oral supplements, topical hyaluronic acid remains one of the most effective hydrating ingredients in modern skincare. It is found across a wide spectrum of products — from lightweight toners and essences to rich creams and targeted eye treatments. Korean beauty brands have been particularly innovative in formulating multi-weight hyaluronic acid products that penetrate different layers of the skin for deeper, longer-lasting hydration.
When choosing hyaluronic acid skincare, consider the molecular weight: low molecular weight hyaluronic acid penetrates deeper into the skin, while high molecular weight forms a hydrating film on the surface. Many modern formulations combine both for comprehensive moisture support. Browse our hair, skin and nails collection for supplements that work from the inside out alongside your topical routine.
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Hyaluronic acid is generally well tolerated, both as a topical ingredient and as an oral supplement. However, there are important situations where caution is warranted.
Injectable hyaluronic acid treatments (dermal fillers and joint injections) should be avoided in the following cases:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Active cancer
- Thyroid disorders
- Known allergy to any component of the preparation
- Blood clotting disorders
- Active herpes or skin infections at the injection site
Oral hyaluronic acid supplements in tablet or capsule form are generally considered safe for most adults. However, they should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women, individuals with autoimmune conditions, and those with active infections.
[warning:Always consult a healthcare professional before starting hyaluronic acid supplementation, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have an autoimmune condition, or are taking medication.]Key Takeaway: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance essential for skin hydration, joint mobility, and eye health. While the body's production declines with age, both oral supplements and topical products can help maintain adequate levels — supporting a youthful appearance and comfortable movement from the inside out.
