Sodium hyaluronate, the miracle salt of hyaluronic acid, has become the hope and mainstay of natural cosmetics in the last decade. The smart Japanese discovered the benefits of hyaluronates, and today anyone on the planet can appreciate the benefits of this natural moisturizer.
You can buy hyaluronic acid, or more precisely, its sodium salt, in the Zulfiya store; there are as many as five varieties on display. How to recognize the one you need? How to properly introduce it into cosmetics? Which hyaluronate is for what? We provide answers to all these questions below.
What are the different types of sodium hyaluronate?
Let's make a brief summary of the description of each type of sodium hyaluronate; there are already five of them in Zulfiya. We list them in descending order of molecular weight, here they are, these beauties.
High molecular weight
(2.5x106) - perfectly cares for the surface of the skin, ideal for gels, because can impart a certain viscosity to an aqueous solution. Smoothes, moisturizes and provides a sleek look. Ideal for water-based primers, moisturizer for mineral makeup, body care.
Medium molecular
(1.3x106) - the size of the molecules is almost half that of high molecular weight, therefore, a 1% aqueous solution will be thinner. Penetrates into the skin much deeper, as the size of the molecules allows. It is introduced into cosmetics without problems, a component of the aqueous phase of emulsions, but is most often used in serums for everything. A universal hyaluronic.
Low molecular weight (0.059x106) - cosmetologists adore this hyaluronate, since a 1% gel (called a gel, but it looks like just water) can revive even the driest and most dehydrated skin overnight. And hair, by the way, too. Used in powerful moisturizers, easily combined with other moisturizing actives, enhancing their effect.
Nano-sized (0.010-0.050x106) - the size of the molecules is smaller than fine, therefore the power of penetration into the deep layers of the skin is unprecedented. One of the bestsellers of the Zulfiya store, a component of many of our ready-made formulas.
Ultra-low molecular weight (8,000 daltons) - occupies a special place among its peers. The most nimble and penetrating sodium hyaluronate, ideal for anti-aging serums, incomparable for the care of colored hair. Produced by fermenting high molecular weight sodium hyaluronate (see above), it has fantastic moisturizing properties.
Any of the five listed hyaluronates can and should be added to cosmetics; the active moisturizes the skin incomparably and can become the core of any formula for any skin type. There is no such thing as too much hydration, and hyaluronic acid salt is beneficial not only to the skin, but also to the hair. Have you tried hyaluronic hair conditioner gel? We lost a lot, let me tell you. The recipe is here, called “ Shine ”.
Role in the human body
Hyaluronic acid is one of the main components of the intercellular substance, so it can be found almost everywhere in the body.
The largest concentration of hyaluronic acid is found in the skin, but it is also present in cartilage tissue, the vitreous body of the eye, and the umbilical cord. This substance has unique properties, which explains its widespread use in various drugs. These properties include:
- creating a physiological environment for cell division and differentiation, as well as optimal conditions for normal cellular and tissue homeostasis;
- ensuring the removal of waste products, as well as the transport of nutrients from vessels to cells, which promotes drainage and detoxification of tissues;
- providing an immunomodulatory effect, increasing tissue resistance to free radical effects;
- ensuring tissue regeneration and eliminating damage (plastic function);
- participates in the synthesis of collagen and elastin;
- is an important substance in regulating processes during embryo development;
- has antiviral activity;
- is a participant in creating intradermal pressure, while maintaining turgor and ensuring skin elasticity by creating additional moisture for the dermis and epidermis layers;
- helps reduce endogenous intoxication rates;
- helps to activate bactericidal properties on the surface of the skin and resist the further spread of bacteria;
- helps prevent the formation of scar tissue and uniformly fill defects with newly formed tissue.
In human skin, sodium hyaluronate contains about 50% of the amount found in the body. Considering that the skin is 70% water and is renewed quite quickly, then this substance is very important for maintaining the structure of the skin. Hyaluronic acid is essential for daily renewal and recovery.
In addition, it has a high ability to retain moisture. One molecule of acid can bind 200−500 molecules of water. In view of this, the dermal layer, which contains a fairly large amount of acid, is saturated with water, which ensures elasticity and resistance to external influences.
Which sodium hyaluronate is used for what?
It is not necessary to have all five types of hyaluronic acid salts on hand. Even with just one hyaluronate, you can create a whole line of skin and hair products.
Recipes with sodium hyaluronate will guide you in the method of introducing it into cosmetics. Traditionally, hyaluronate is introduced into the aqueous phase of emulsions. Cosmetologists like to use several types of hyaluronates in one product - this way a complex effect is achieved, and the skin begins to glow with health.
Do not forget that nail care with hyaluronic acid is one of the most effective methods of restoring the nail plate. After extensions or shellac, manicurists advise moisturizing nails and cuticles with hyaluronic serums. Combine high and ultra-low molecular weight hyaluronate for rapid nail restoration and stimulation of the nail matrix.
Use at home
It is not by chance that sodium hyaluronate is used in cosmetics, because it is part of the skin and helps maintain its youth and beauty. However, it is not necessary to buy expensive branded products with this component. Sodium salt is sold in the pharmacy in the form of a white powder and can be used to make homemade creams and masks.
The cost of 5 g of powder in a pharmacy is about 200 rubles.
How to make cosmetics using sodium hyaluronate?
The moisturizing agent disperses well in water, and the higher the molecular weight of the sodium salt, the more viscous its aqueous solution. In practice, only 1% high molecular weight hyaluronate is more or less like a gel; all other 1% hyaluronate solutions resemble water and nothing more. But this water is alive, ladies!
Technologists recommend making hyaluronic solutions an hour before creating emulsions or other cosmetics. Sodium salts need time to distribute evenly; after an hour of “swelling” in water, you need to beat the aqueous solution with a mixer, even if it looks like water.
Contraindications for use
Sodium hyaluronate is a natural constituent of the skin. At the same time, its analogue of animal or chemical origin may be added to cosmetic products; accordingly, an allergic reaction may occur to this component.
Also, products based on sodium salt are not recommended:
- while expecting a child;
- during lactation;
- during exacerbation of chronic diseases;
- in the presence of inflammatory processes on the skin;
- after chemical peeling.
Self-prepared masks and creams must be checked for allergic reactions. In addition, it is recommended to comply with all proportions specified in the recipes so as not to exceed the permissible percentage of hyaluronate indicated for home use - no more than 2%.
Properly selected cosmetics based on sodium hyaluronate will help preserve the youth and beauty of the skin, moisturize the epidermis, and protect against external adverse factors.
Is it possible to combine different types of sodium hyaluronate?
Need to! The enterprising and smart Japanese based their innovation on this - 3D and even 4D sodium hyaluronate. This sodium megahyaluronate is ingenious, like everything simple - it’s just a cocktail of hyaluronates with different molecular weights.
Skin care based on this mix is distinguished by comprehensive deep hydration; your skin doesn’t need more than that!
We are sure that you appreciated the unprecedented combinatorial power that hyaluronic acid and its five salts provide. Good luck with your hyaluronic sessions and smooth, moisturized skin - you won’t be lost with such assets!
Note:
in molecular weight 2.5x106 the six at the end means the degree. 2.5 times ten to the sixth power.
Types of connection
Sodium hyaluronate is usually divided into two types:
The high-molecular type is used for cosmetic purposes, because the substances contained in it act more on the surface of the skin without penetrating deep into the tissues. This substance promotes
- moisturizing the skin;
- makes facial skin elastic and toned;
- eliminates folds and wrinkles;
- provides better thermoregulation.
In other words, the high-molecular type of substance has a greater effect on the external signs of the skin, which, of course, cosmetologists know about and actively use it in various cosmetic preparations.
The low-molecular type is capable, on the contrary, of penetrating deep into the tissues and cells of the body. This is its main difference. It is capable of establishing protective barriers, capable of protecting the skin from exposure to ultraviolet and direct sunlight, as well as other mechanical influences. The main function of low molecular weight hyaluronate is a protective function.
Properties and scope of application of hyaluronic acid
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, when used regularly, can effectively protect the skin from the occurrence of premature expression wrinkles by stimulating the production of special subcutaneous enzymes that can prevent rapid skin aging. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid is actively used in cosmetology as a way to prolong and preserve youth for a long time.
Hyaluronic acid for face
It is most effective to use hyaluronic acid for facial skin because one of the main causes of premature wrinkles is loss of moisture from skin cells. Moisture is lost with age-related changes, when the integrity of the fatty layer of the stratum corneum is damaged, and with negative solar radiation. The additional use of hyaluron for anti-aging purposes helps the skin retain moisture for many years.
Expert opinion
- Cosmetologist
- Surgeon
Anna Avaliani
practicing cosmetologist
Probably the most popular cosmetic procedure for which hyaluronic acid is used is lip augmentation. The fact is that contour plastic surgery (as this manipulation is also called) boasts many advantages. But do not confuse the introduction of fillers and biopolymer. In the second case, you may encounter a lot of trouble. But the introduction of hyaluronic acid does not lead to an allergic reaction, and complications are very rare.
Aisha Baron
plastic surgeon
Hyaluronic acid is an important substance for the body.
But I think using the tablet version is useless. But the effect of creams and serums will be minimal. Such products cannot smooth out wrinkles; they only superficially improve the condition of the skin. The fact is that the hyaluron molecule is not able to penetrate through the pores due to its size. For total rejuvenation, you should turn to injection and hardware techniques. Treatment of joints with hyaluronic acid preparations, as well as injection facial contouring are quite expensive, but very effective ways to maintain health and beauty.
It is important to understand that hyaluron is not a panacea or a way to solve all problems, so you need to monitor your diet and sleep patterns, try to avoid stressful situations, maintain normal weight, do not forget about moderate physical activity, and most importantly, drink enough clean water, so necessary for both joints and skin.
In what areas is the substance used?
Sodium hyaluronate and its properties began to be actively studied around the middle of the twentieth century. It was found that hyaluronic acid has an unusual ability to restore and regenerate. They are renewed daily, but regeneration slows down as the body ages or when hormonal levels change.
The chemical composition of hyaluronate is capable of changing its chemical composition when there are pathologies inside the body. As a result of this research, fruits were obtained that help recognize the presence of some serious diseases. For example, if there are joint diseases, then the internal composition of this acid changes.
Therefore, drugs containing this substance are often prescribed for joint diseases, because such drugs can restore joint tissue, help with muscle disorders and when their tone decreases. It follows from this that the benefits of hyaluron are not only for the skin.
Hyaluronic acid is also useful in cases of damage to connective or nervous tissue. In addition, it is also used in the field of ophthalmology. It is used in the treatment of the retina of the eye, since it is present in its pure form in the lenses of the eye. In view of this, this substance helps very well after surgery.
