What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a carbohydrate, or more specifically, a mucopolysaccharide that occurs naturally throughout the human body and presents itself as a large high molecular weight molecule.

The molecule comprises a repetitive sequence of two modified simple sugar called glucuronic acid and N acetyl glucosamine.

These compounds are both negatively charged, and together they repel, producing an exceptionally long stretched out molecule (high molecular weight).

HA molecules that are long and large have a high viscosity (lubrication) effect, which resists compression and allows our joints and skin to bear weight.

hyaluronic acid benefits

Its function in the body

Amongst other things, is to lubricate movable parts of the body, such as joints and muscles. Its consistency and tissue-friendliness also allow it to be beneficial in skin-care products as an excellent moisturizer.

Because HA is one of the most hydrophilic (water-loving) molecules in nature, with numerous benefits for the human body, it can be described as “nature’s moisturizer.” HA is one of the most researched substances in medicine today, particularly in eye surgery and orthopedics.

Where is HA Located in the Body?

When Was Hyaluronic Acid Discovered?

HA was first discovered in 1934 by Karl Meyer and John Palmer, scientists at Columbia University, New York. Since then, researchers and scientists worldwide have been studying its properties and applications, and new information is continually being documented.

Browse our Articles on Hyaluronic Acid

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Hyaluronic Acid in the Eyes

Hyaluronic acid is highly concentrated inside the eyeball. The vitreous humor (fluid within the eye) is composed almost entirely of hyaluronic acid and gives the ...
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Hyaluronic Acid Skin Care

Roughly 50% of the hyaluronic acid in our body is found in the skin, both in the deep underlying dermis and the visible top layers ...
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Hyaluronic Acid for Hair

The dermal skin layer is composed of connective tissue, and the connective tissue, with its gelatinous fluid-like characteristics, provides support, nourishes, and hydrates the deep ...
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Hyaluronic Acid in Connective Tissue

Hyaluronic Acid in Connective Tissue Connective tissue is found everywhere in the body. It does much more than connect body parts; it has many forms ...
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Hyaluronic Acid in Synovial Fluid

Hyaluronic acid is a chief component of synovial fluid. Synovial fluid provides lubrication and shock-absorbancy to the joints.
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Hyaluronic Acid in Bones and Cartilage

Hyaluronic acid is found in all bones and cartilage throughout the body and assists in the distribution of nutrients to the cells.
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Hyaluronic Acid For Lips

The lips are a core of skeletal muscle covered by skin tissue. The dermal layer of the lips is composed primarily of connective tissue and ...
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