The Many Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid - Jermaine Valdez

You might have heard of hyaluronic acid (HA) through cosmetics and skincare but where did it come from and what exactly is its history? HA was first discovered by Karl Meyer and John Palmer in 1934 by extracting the substance from a bovine’s eyes. The term “hya” refers to its glassy appearance hence the name hyaluronic acid. 

HA is a naturally occurring substance and can be sourced from bacteria fermentation or from animals like pigs, rabbits and chickens. It is also found naturally in our body through our umbilical cord, skin and connective tissue. However, the most economically manageable way to extract HA for mass production is from the fleshy part on top of a chicken's head called a chicken comb.

HA is a water soluble substance and also has a viscoelastic property that gives it a mucus-like feel. It acts as a barrier for the skin to retain the moisture and keep it hydrated. However, hydration isn’t the only benefit that HA offers. Not only does HA come in cosmetics but it can be taken through an oral pill or through injection to help with joints. HA content was included in eye drops and have been proven to treat dry eyes, a cream to treat rosacea and as a nasal spray for chronic rhinosinusitis which is just a more extreme term for a cold.

Since HA is a naturally occurring substance, it has very little negative effects and the only cases happen to be hypersensitivity of facial swelling, reddening, and inflammation. It is considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women but there isn’t enough studies on this matter, however, for those with a history of cancer, oral pills of HA shouldn’t be taken since it is considered food for cancer cells and can actually accelerate the production of cancer.


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