Hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate)
Category: Humectant
Brief description: Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It is used in cosmetics for its exceptional hydrating properties.
Benefits: Hydrates, plumps, and smooths the skin; promotes collagen production
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin
Target audience: All age groups, particularly those with dry, dehydrated, or aging skin
Chemical composition: Hyaluronic acid is a linear polysaccharide made up of repeating disaccharide units (N-acetylglucosamine and glucuronic acid)
Physical aspect: White or off-white powder, or clear viscous liquid when dissolved in water
Compatibility: Compatible with most ingredients in cosmetic formulations
Concentration: Typically used at concentrations of 0.1-2% in cosmetic formulations
Side effects/adverse reactions: Rarely causes irritation or sensitization; however, some people may experience mild irritation or redness
Regulatory status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Hyaluronic acid can be derived from animal sources (rooster combs) or through bacterial fermentation (vegan); choose vegan hyaluronic acid for cruelty-free formulations
Brief description: Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It is used in cosmetics for its exceptional hydrating properties.
Benefits: Hydrates, plumps, and smooths the skin; promotes collagen production
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin
Target audience: All age groups, particularly those with dry, dehydrated, or aging skin
Chemical composition: Hyaluronic acid is a linear polysaccharide made up of repeating disaccharide units (N-acetylglucosamine and glucuronic acid)
Physical aspect: White or off-white powder, or clear viscous liquid when dissolved in water
Compatibility: Compatible with most ingredients in cosmetic formulations
Concentration: Typically used at concentrations of 0.1-2% in cosmetic formulations
Side effects/adverse reactions: Rarely causes irritation or sensitization; however, some people may experience mild irritation or redness
Regulatory status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Hyaluronic acid can be derived from animal sources (rooster combs) or through bacterial fermentation (vegan); choose vegan hyaluronic acid for cruelty-free formulations
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