WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?
“Hyaluronic acid is a large chain of sugar molecules found throughout the entire body,” Courtney explains. It’s often considered the gold standard of hydration because the naturally occurring molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water,” she adds. It’s a natural lubricating fluid in eyes, joints, connective tissue, and—you guessed it—skin.
HOW CAN WE TELL IF WE’RE DEFICIENT?
Fine lines and wrinkles may be a sign that you’re low in hyaluronic acid. Exposure to free radicals is something that can especially contribute to hyaluronic-acid depletion.
“Up to 33% of the hyaluronic acid in your body is replaced on a daily basis,” Courtney shares. “HA molecules are very sensitive to free radicals, and they deplete even more quickly when exposed to them.”
If you get lots of UV exposure, drink alcohol, or are exposed to free radicals in your diet, you might want to consider increasing your hyaluronic acid to help protect against signs of aging.
HOW TO GET MORE HYALURONIC ACID
You can increase your hyaluronic intake by applying it topically, injecting a filler, or—for a less invasive inner beauty option—getting more of it in your diet.
Acid doesn’t necessarily sound like the most ingestible substance, but rest assured, this kind is. That said, it can be hard to find. A high-quality bone broth is one option. For best results, be sure to also eat citrus fruits, which help inhibit the breakdown of HA.
Then, of course, you can always supplement.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A QUALITY HYALURONIC ACID
First, decide whether you prefer an animal- or plant-based source. While many HA supplements are derived from chicken combs or collagen, at HUM and Youth To The People, we opt for plant-based sources.
Then, it’s important to look for low-molecular HA, which absorbs more readily into the skin than high-molecular HA.