What Is Hyaluronic Acid Used for?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a member of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) family and is naturally present in our body. It is located within our cartilage, connective tissue, joint fluid and skin. Hyaluronic acid serves a vital role for numerous bodily functions, especially the overall health and maintenance of our skin and joints.

Significance

• Hyaluronic acid has gained notoriety for its effectiveness in the cosmetic and medical arenas, where it's administered in supplement, topical and injection forms.

Features

• According to the Supplement Research Foundation, "HA seems to work through several mechanisms of action, including restoration of more normal synovial fluid with improved viscoelasticity, effects on cartilage biosynthesis and degradation, anti-inflammatory effects, and direct analgesic effects."

Cosmetic Usage

• Hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient in various skin-care products aimed at increasing the skin's moisture and elasticity levels, so the appearance of lines and wrinkles is decreased, and the skin looks more healthy and youthful.

Medical Usage

• The Connective Tissue Disorder site notes the usage of hyaluronic acid injections, supplements and other commercial preparations for the prevention and treatment of various connective tissue disorders and associated problems.

Identification

• Hyaluronic acid is used for conditions such as arthritis, cartilage damage, chronic fatigue syndrome, fractures, fibromyalgia, glaucoma, hernias, ligament and wound healing, muscle contractures and osteoarthritis.

Potential

• Hyaluronic acid might also be effective against diseases such as acne rosacea, anemia, bronchial asthma, depression, dermatitis, diabetes mellitus, eczema, gall bladder disease, infection, low iron, irritable bowel syndrome, lupus, periodontal (gum) disease and psoriasis.