If you’re even remotely interested in skincare, you most likely have heard of hyaluronic acid (HA) by now. It is mentioned everywhere and anywhere, cropping up in countless products and treatments. But what exactly is HA, and why has it managed to push its way onto everyone’s lips?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, with almost half of the body’s stores found in the skin. It acts like a molecular sponge, holding up to 1000 times its weight in water. This remarkable ability to attract and retain begins to answer the question of why seems to be everywhere. Its hydration properties.
As time goes on for us, our skin’s HA levels gradually but surley deplete, leading to dryness, fine lines, and loss of firmness. This is where HA steps in, in skincare and of course, dermal fillers. Through the act of replenishing the skin’s HA content, combatting some of the ageing follows on, and following on from that, more youthful skin.
At The Doctors Laser Clinic, we know all about HA. We aim to harness its potential whenever we can, by providing our patients a range of treatments to to plump, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an inherant glycosaminoglycan polysaccharide composed of alternating residues of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. This mouthful of a substance is found throughout the body’s connective, epithelial, and neural tissues. The average 70 kg person has roughly 15 grams of HA in their body, one-third of which is turned over daily.
The amazing properties and functions of hyaluronic acid
- Excellent water retention capabilities, binding up to 1000 times its weight in water, allowing HA to intensely hydrate and lubricate tissues.
- Present in high concentrations in the skin (dermis and epidermis), eyes, and joints. The skin is the biggest beneficiary of HA.
- Acts as a cushioning and lubricating agent in joints and other tissues. The slippery, gel-like consistency of HA allows joints to move smoothly.
- Plays a vital role in wound healing by regulating inflammation and stimulating tissue repair.
- Provides volume and hydration to the skin,
- Transports essential nutrients to cells.
- Potential anti-ageing and anti-wrinkle effects when applied topically or injected into the skin.
Hyaluronic acid is a versatile and vital molecule found naturally throughout the human body. Its unique capacity to bind water helps to keep tissues hydrated, lubricated, and supple. These properties make HA useful for a wide range of medical and cosmetic applications, especially related to skin ageing, wound healing, and joint health.
Where is Hyaluronic Acid Found?
Hyaluronic acid is widely distributed throughout the body’s tissues. The largest amounts are found in the skin, within which, HA is present in both the dermis and epidermis.
In the dermis, HA is a major component of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Its part is to hydrate and plump the skin by binding water molecules.
In the epidermis, HA is found mainly in the ECM of the upper spinous and granular layers. In the basal layer, HA is predominantly intracellular.
The HA-rich area in the dermis obtains water from the moisture-rich dermis. The lipid-rich stratum granulosum acts as a barrier to prevent water loss.
With regards to other parts of the body, high concentrations of HA are also present in:
Eyes: HA is a major component of vitreous humour and aqueous humour, helping maintain eye shape and shock absorption.
Joints: HA is found in the synovial fluid, acting as a lubricant and shock absorber in joints such as the knees.
Connective tissues: As part of the ECM, Hyaluronic acid is widely distributed throughout the body’s tissues.
Other areas where HA is found include:
- Umbilical cord
- Lungs
- Aorta
- Prostate
- Brain
Production of Hyaluronic Acid in the Body
The body makes HA by linking together two types of sugar molecules in an alternating pattern to form long chains. The process of making HA starts with a simple sugar called glucose. The body modifies glucose in a series of complicated parallel pathways, ending up with the two molecular building blocks of HA.
HA production in the body decreases with age, leading to visible signs of skin ageing like wrinkles and loss of firmness. By the time people reach their 40s, HA synthesis is approximately half that required to maintain youthful skin. This age-related decline in HA, along with the degradation of collagen and elastin, contributes to the structural changes seen in ageing skin.
The Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Dermal Fillers
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the perfect ingredient for dermal fillers due to its remarkable ability to hydrate and add volume to the skin. Dermal fillers are injectable treatments used to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and to restore lost facial volume. HA’s unique properties make it ideal for these applications.
One of the important reasons HA is favoured in dermal fillers is its biocompatibility. Since HA is naturally found in the body, the risk of adverse reactions is significantly lower compared to other synthetic substances. This compatibility ensures that the injected HA integrates smoothly with the skin’s tissues.
The hydration properties of HA also play a crucial role. When HA is injected into the skin, it attracts and binds water molecules, creating a plumping effect. This helps to fill in wrinkles and add volume to areas that have lost fullness due to ageing.
HA dermal fillers are also temporary, which can be an advantage for those who are new to cosmetic treatments or who prefer not to commit to permanent changes. The body gradually absorbs HA over time, allowing for adjustments or changes to be made with subsequent treatments.
In addition to reducing wrinkles and adding volume, HA fillers can also be used to contour facial features. They can enhance cheekbones, define the jawline, and even augment lips for a fuller look. This versatility makes HA dermal fillers a valuable tool in aesthetic medicine.
HA Fillers at The Doctors Laser Clinic
HA fillers have a strong safety record. Side effects, if any, are typically mild and temporary. At The Doctors Laser Clinic, patient safety is our utmost priority, and HA treatments are performed whilst giving the highest standards of care. Our clinic offers a range of HA filler treatments tailored to match each client’s unique needs. Our team of experts ensures that every treatment is carried out with precision and care, leading to outstanding and satisfying results. Its unparalleled ability to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin makes it a top choice for treatments aimed at enhancing natural beauty. At The Doctors Laser Clinic, we are proud to offer HA-based treatments that reflect our commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction.
HA Fillers for you
Interested in exploring the benefits of hyaluronic acid for your skin? Contact The Doctors Laser Clinic today to book in for a consultation and discover the perfect HA treatment for your skin.
