Is swallowable hyaluronic acid effective? Experts explain

Hyaluronic acid is in (almost) all our skin care products and promises plumper, more hydrated skin, and that is exactly what it does. The ingredient occurs naturally in our body and helps lubricate joints, which keeps those limbs from becoming sore and cracked. You’ll see serums, sprays, moisturizers and more on the shelves, with HA as the hero ingredient for hydration and hydration.

Brands like Needed, Elemis and Armra say that HA intake can increase hydration from within. Before you fill your Stanley cup full of water and HA or add more capsules to your morning routine, it’s important to understand that most beauty supplements are not complete miracle workers and should be approached with caution. Ahead, we spoke with expert board-certified dermatologists Dendy Engleman, MD, FAAD, and David Shafer, MD, FACS, about what you need to know before taking ingestible hyaluronic acid.

What is hyaluronic acid (HA)?

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that helps retain water within the skin barrier, resulting in plump, hydrated skin when applied topically. “Hyaluronic acid is great for all skin types and is especially good for dehydrated or mature skin as skin loses moisture with age. It also strengthens the skin barrier, makes you look more dewy and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. ” says Dr. Engelman.

Can ingestible hyaluronic acid improve skin texture?

Dr. Engelman emphasizes the importance of researching the source and ingredients of supplements before adding anything to your routine. “While being hydrated helps the body’s daily processes and supports healthy skin, oral intake of water and hydrating drinks is not directly correlated with skin hydration,” she says. In other words, just because a pill or powder claims to hydrate your skin doesn’t mean it fits the big picture. Ultimately, your best bet is to drink plenty of water (if you’re concerned about hydration from within), eat a balanced diet, and find a moisturizing skincare routine that suits your concerns.

“Topical hyaluronic acid is best for targeting the surface layers of the skin and can provide an immediate but temporary plumping and hydrating effect,” says Dr. Engleman. Of course, you should talk to your doctor and do your research before adding supplements to your diet, especially if you’re concerned about bone or joint pain. Take them eventually if you want, but Dr. Engleman notes that there is more scientific data and research supporting the topical and cosmetic benefits of HA.

Benefits of injectable hyaluronic acid

If you’re considering using hyaluronic acid to improve your skin and want to look beyond topical treatments, injectables may be a good option. “HA can be injected superficially with microneedling or as a dermal filler with a needle and syringe,” says Dr. Shafer. “Topical HA does not have a long duration of action because it is not efficiently absorbed and metabolized quickly.” He noted that when HA is injected, the bonds between the molecules allow the body to metabolize HA much more slowly. The treatment therefore takes longer.

“Daily topical HA is great for retaining skin moisture. However, if volume improvement is the goal, then an injectable HA such as Juvederm would be more suitable,” adds Dr. Shafer. You may also consider Exion, a medical device that combines radiofrequency and ultrasound therapy to tighten the skin. “The treatment works by delivering RF and ultrasound energy to the lower levels of the skin, which in turn stimulates the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid,” explains Dr. Engelman out.

If you are considering injectable HA or treatments such as microneedling, you should consult a board-certified dermatologist who can prescribe the best treatment plan for your skin and needs.

Last takeaway

Although supplements promising better skin appear on the market daily, it’s important to understand that most won’t drastically change your skin. Most also need more critical research to support their effectiveness. However, many science-based HA options can help your skin, either topically, via a serum, or cosmetically, through a needle or treatment by a dermatologist.