Hyaluronic acid types and benefits

There are many different variations of hyaluronic acid, so what sets them apart and how do they impact the skin? The molecular weight of hyaluronic acid is the key differentiator between each variation and plays a crucial role in determining its benefits and action on the skin.

High molecular weight hyaluronic acid tends to stay close to the skin's surface, boosting hydration in the upper layers of the skin and minimising trans-epidermal water loss.

Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid penetrates through to the deeper layers of the skin, hydrating the skin from within and helping to improve skin texture and minimise wrinkles.

It is from this deeper level within the skin that low molecular weight hyaluronic acid can stimulate collagen production and promote cellular repair.

Even smaller than low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, are tiny hyaluronic acid fragments. These support with counteracting age-related declines in the skin’s condition. By penetrating the deepest layers of the skin, they can signal the epidermal cells to produce new hyaluronic acid to increase overall skin hydration.

A black and white microscopic image of plant stem cross-section showing a structured pattern of cells. Larger circular vessels are visible among smaller cells, displaying the typical vascular tissue arrangement found in plant anatomy.

Acetylated Hyaluronate can be found in our Supernatural Day Crème

At Emma Lewisham, we use a variety of different hyaluronic acid molecular weights, combining them to harness the full spectrum of their unique benefits. The types you will find most commonly in Emma Lewisham products are:

Sodium Hyaluronate
Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid. It has a smaller molecular size than standard hyaluronic acid, making it easier for the skin to absorb and has a more stable structure, meaning it can remain effective for longer periods of time. It’s ability to moisturise and plump the skin while providing long lasting hydration makes it one of the most commonly used varieties of hyaluronic acid found in skincare. Sodium Hyaluronate can be found in our Illuminating Face & Body Oil, Supernatural Day Crème, Skin Reset Serum, Skin Reset Eye Crème, Supernatural Sleeping Mask, Skin Shield SPF30, and Supernatural Face Crème Riche.

Hydrolysed sodium hyaluronate delivered with microsphere technology
Typically, hyaluronic acid is only available in water-based formulations as it is a water-soluble molecule. However, this unique form of hyaluronic acid is oil soluble, meaning it can be included in oil-based formulations. In addition, it combines a low molecular weight with microsphere technology which enables it to penetrate deeper into the skin than other forms and deliveries of hyaluronic acid. Hydrolysed sodium hyaluronate delivered with microsphere technology can be found in our Illuminating Face and Body Oil, Supernatural Day Crème, Skin Reset Serum, Skin Reset Eye Crème, Supernatural Face Crème Riche, Supernatural Sleeping Mask and Skin Shield SPF30.

“Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar molecule found in the human body, predominantly in the skin, joints, muscles, and eyes. One of the main functions of hyaluronic acid is to retain water, keeping tissues well lubricated and moist.”

Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
This modified form of hyaluronic acid represents a new era of hyaluronic acid with its dual-action ability to both penetrate deeply into the skin while resisting the enzymes (called hyaluronidase) that typically degrade hyaluronic acid. As a result, it has a half-life that is approximately 13 times longer than traditional hyaluronic acid. Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate can be found in our Supernatural Day Crème, Supernatural Face Crème Riche, and Supernatural Vitale Face Elixir and allows us to provide deeper penetrating and longer lasting hydration.

Saccharide Isomerate
A companion to hyaluronic acid Saccharide Isomerate is a 100% plant-derived carbohydrate complex, similar to the natural moisturising factors found in human skin. While it is not a form of hyaluronic acid, is often included when speaking about hyaluronic acid as it is hyaluronic acid booster. It works in synergy with all types of hyaluronic acid to boost its production by up to 66%, delivering advanced hydration for up to 72 hours. Saccharide Isomerate can be found in our Illuminating Exfoliant, Skin Reset Eye Crème, Supernatural Day Crème, Skin Shield SPF30, and Supernatural Vitale Elixir.

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