Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, renowned for its incredible ability to retain moisture.
Its primary, science-backed benefits include promoting deeply hydrated skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, and supporting healthy, lubricated joint function.
This remarkable molecule is a cornerstone of modern dermatology and rheumatology for good reason.
Its “superpower” lies in a stunning fact of biochemistry: a single molecule of hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1.000 times its weight in water.
This makes it one of the most powerful humectants—or moisture-binding ingredients—known to science.
It acts like a microscopic sponge, drawing water to itself and holding it within tissues, providing the plumpness, resilience, and lubrication essential for youthful skin and mobile joints.
Unfortunately, our natural reserves of this vital substance are not infinite.
As we age, the body’s production of hyaluronic acid slows down.
This intrinsic aging process is accelerated by extrinsic factors like sun exposure, pollution and lifestyle choices.
The result is a cascade of common concerns: skin becomes drier and less elastic, fine lines and wrinkles become more prominent and joints may feel stiffer and less comfortable.
This article provides a definitive guide to understanding and harnessing the power of hyaluronic acid.
We will explore its seven core science-backed benefits, delve into the different forms available—from topical serums to oral supplements and clinical injections—and provide a practical guide to choosing the right product for your specific needs.
Continue reading to discover how this powerhouse molecule works and how you can effectively integrate it into your health and wellness routine.
In This Article
What Exactly Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Before diving into its extensive benefits, it’s crucial to understand what hyaluronic acid is at a molecular level and why its presence in our bodies is so fundamental to our health.
This isn’t just another skincare trend, it’s a biological building block.
A Deeper Definition: The Body’s Natural Humectant
Technically, hyaluronic acid (also known as HA or hyaluronan) is a glycosaminoglycan (GAG), a long, unbranched polysaccharide composed of repeating sugar molecules.
In simpler terms, think of it as a long-chain sugar molecule that acts as a scaffold and a moisture magnet within our tissues.
It’s a clear, gooey substance that our bodies produce naturally.
While it’s found throughout the body, its highest concentrations are in specific areas where lubrication and moisture are critical.
Over 50% of the body’s total hyaluronic acid is found in the skin, where it plays a vital role in maintaining structure and hydration.
Significant amounts are also present in:
- Synovial Fluid: The viscous fluid that lubricates our joints, allowing for smooth, pain-free movement.
- Eyes: It helps maintain the shape and moisture of the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eyeball.
- Connective Tissue: It provides cushioning and support throughout the body’s structural framework.
The Science of How It Works
The primary mechanism of hyaluronic acid is its function as a humectant.
It operates like a high-capacity sponge, drawing water molecules from two sources: the surrounding air (in humid conditions) and the deeper layers of the skin (the dermis).
By binding this water in the epidermis (the skin’s outermost layer), it dramatically increases hydration levels.
This process has a profound effect on the skin’s appearance and health. Well-hydrated skin is plump, firm, and has a “bouncy” quality.
This plumping effect physically pushes out fine lines and wrinkles from within, making them less visible.
Furthermore, by maintaining optimal hydration, HA helps fortify the skin’s natural barrier, protecting it from environmental damage and reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL)—the process of water evaporating from the skin’s surface.
Why Do Our Hyaluronic Acid Levels Decline?
The decline of hyaluronic acid is a two-pronged process involving both natural aging and environmental damage.
Understanding these causes is key to appreciating the role of supplemental HA.
1. Intrinsic Aging: As we get older, our cells, including the fibroblasts that synthesize hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin, become less productive.
This natural biological slowdown means the body simply produces less HA.
The existing HA also breaks down more quickly.
This leads to a net loss, resulting in the characteristic signs of aging like skin dryness, loss of volume and joint stiffness.
2. Extrinsic Factors: External stressors can significantly accelerate the degradation of hyaluronic acid. The primary culprits include:
- UV Radiation: Sun exposure is the number one enemy of hyaluronic acid. UV rays generate free radicals that break down HA molecules in the skin, a process known as photoaging. Studies have clearly shown that sun-damaged skin has significantly lower levels of HA.
- Pollution: Airborne pollutants can induce oxidative stress, leading to inflammation and the breakdown of essential skin components, including hyaluronic acid.
- Smoking: Tobacco smoke constricts blood vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrient supply to the skin. It also generates a massive amount of free radicals that degrade both collagen and hyaluronic acid.
By supplementing with topical or oral hyaluronic acid, we can help counteract this decline, replenishing the skin and body’s moisture reserves to maintain a healthier, more youthful state.
The 7 Core Science-Backed Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid’s unique properties translate into a wide array of scientifically validated benefits that extend far beyond surface-level hydration.
Here, we explore the seven most significant advantages, supported by clinical research.
1. How Does Hyaluronic Acid Promote Plump, Hydrated Skin?
This is the most celebrated benefit of hyaluronic acid and for good reason.
Its ability to deeply hydrate and visibly rejuvenate the skin is supported by a wealth of scientific evidence.
The Mechanism: A Multi-Layered Approach to Hydration
When applied topically or ingested orally, hyaluronic acid works to restore the skin’s moisture balance.
Topically, it forms a moisture-permeable film on the skin’s surface, locking in hydration and preventing TEWL.
Orally, it increases the body’s overall supply of HA, which is then distributed to the skin from within, hydrating the deeper layers of the dermis and epidermis.
This intense hydration leads to a visible plumping effect, which helps to smooth out the skin’s texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
It also enhances skin elasticity and firmness, contributing to a more youthful and resilient complexion.
The Scientific Evidence
“A recent double-blind, randomized clinical trial provides direct evidence supporting the clinical efficacy of oral intake of HMW-HA (300 KDa) in promoting skin health. Specifically, oral administration of 100 and 200 mg/day HA significantly promoted skin hydration after 2–8 weeks”.
The evidence for HA’s skin benefits is robust. A landmark 2023 study published in Food Science and Human Wellness investigated the effects of oral HA supplementation.
The trial found that participants taking 120-240 mg of hyaluronic acid daily for at least one month showed significant increases in skin moisture and a reduction in dry skin.
The study also noted improvements in skin tone and epidermal thickness after 12 weeks, suggesting a healthier, stronger skin barrier.
This research confirms that oral HA effectively delivers benefits from the inside out.
For topical applications, a 2022 meta-analysis in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology concluded that HA-based cosmeceuticals are a “noninvasive, effective solution for improving skin hydration and rejuvenation”.
The review of numerous studies supports its use for reducing wrinkles, redness and even dermatitis.
Best Forms for This Benefit
- Topical (Serums, Creams): Excellent for immediate surface hydration and plumping. Look for formulas with multiple molecular weights for multi-level benefits.
- Oral (Supplements): Ideal for deep, systemic hydration that addresses skin health from within. Clinical trials suggest benefits appear after 4-12 weeks of consistent use.
- Injectable (Fillers): Used by dermatologists to instantly restore lost volume, smooth deep wrinkles and contour the face. This provides the most dramatic and immediate results.
2. Can Hyaluronic Acid Relieve Joint Pain and Lubricate Joints?
Beyond aesthetics, hyaluronic acid is a cornerstone of joint health.
It is a critical component of the synovial fluid that cushions our joints and supplementing it can offer significant relief for those with degenerative joint conditions.
The Mechanism: The Body’s Shock Absorber
In a healthy joint, synovial fluid is rich in high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, giving it a thick, viscous consistency.
This fluid acts as both a lubricant, allowing cartilage-coated bones to glide smoothly past one another and a shock absorber, dissipating pressure during activities like walking or running.
In conditions like osteoarthritis, the concentration and molecular weight of HA in the synovial fluid decrease, leading to thinner fluid, increased friction, inflammation and pain.
The Scientific Evidence
The use of hyaluronic acid for osteoarthritis is well-established.
A comprehensive 2015 review in Clinical Cases in Mineral and Bone Metabolism highlights its effectiveness.
The review states that exogenous HA can “enhance chondrocyte HA synthesis, prevent the degradation of cartilage and promote its regeneration”.
It concludes that viscosupplementation can reduce pain, improve joint function and even delay the need for prosthetic surgery.
Oral supplementation has also shown promise. A 2016 study published in The Scientific World Journal found that subjects with knee osteoarthritis taking 80–200 mg of HA daily for two months experienced significant reductions in pain and stiffness compared to a placebo group.
This suggests that oral HA can be an effective, non-invasive option for managing symptoms.
Best Forms for This Benefit
- Injectable (Viscosupplementation): The most direct and common medical treatment. A healthcare professional injects HA directly into the joint capsule (e.g., the knee) to restore the synovial fluid’s properties. Relief can last for several months.
- Oral (Supplements): A convenient, non-invasive way to support overall joint health. It works systemically and may help reduce pain and improve function over a period of weeks to months.
3. Does Hyaluronic Acid Accelerate Wound Healing?
The body naturally rushes hyaluronic acid to sites of injury, highlighting its crucial role in the tissue repair process.
Its application can help manage and speed up the healing of various types of wounds.
The Mechanism: Orchestrating the Repair Process
When skin is damaged, HA concentrations in the area increase. It helps orchestrate the healing process by:
- Regulating Inflammation: It helps control the inflammatory response, preventing it from becoming excessive and damaging.
- Promoting Cell Proliferation: It signals the body to build more blood vessels and fibroblasts in the damaged area.
- Providing a Scaffold: It creates a hydrated matrix for new cells to migrate into and rebuild tissue.
- Exhibiting Antibacterial Properties: It can help reduce the risk of infection in open wounds.
The Scientific Evidence
Research supports the use of topical HA for wound care.
A review in the journal Dermatology and Therapy noted that hyaluronic acid is involved in all phases of wound healing.
Studies have shown that applying HA gels to skin wounds, including leg ulcers and post-surgical incisions, can reduce wound size and decrease pain more effectively than placebo.
It is also widely used in dentistry to speed up healing after tooth surgery and to treat mouth ulcers.
Best Forms for This Benefit
- Topical (Gels, Creams, Dressings): Applying HA directly to a wound is the most effective method. Prescription-strength formulations are available for clinical use.
4. Can It Soothe Symptoms of Acid Reflux?
While a newer area of research, evidence is emerging that hyaluronic acid can provide relief for the painful symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The Mechanism: A Protective Esophageal Barrier
In acid reflux, stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing inflammation and damage to its delicate lining.
It is hypothesized that a supplement containing hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate adheres to the esophageal mucosa.
This creates a protective barrier that shields the tissue from further acid damage and provides a hydrated environment conducive to healing.
The Scientific Evidence
A 2017 study published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease investigated a combination supplement of HA and chondroitin sulfate alongside standard acid-reducing medication.
The group taking the combination supplement reported a 60% greater reduction in reflux symptoms compared to the group taking medication alone.
These promising results suggest HA can be a valuable complementary therapy for managing GERD.
Best Forms for This Benefit
- Oral (Liquid/Syrup Formulations): A liquid or syrup form, often combined with chondroitin sulfate, is designed to coat the esophagus as it is swallowed.
5. How Does Hyaluronic Acid Help with Dry Eye Relief?
Given its exceptional moisture-retaining properties and its natural presence in the eye, hyaluronic acid is a first-line treatment for dry eye syndrome.
The Mechanism: Stabilizing the Tear Film
Dry eye occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.
Hyaluronic acid helps by stabilizing the tear film on the surface of the eye.
It increases the viscosity of tears, helping them adhere to the cornea for longer and reducing the rate of evaporation.
This provides lasting lubrication and comfort.
The Scientific Evidence
Numerous studies have confirmed the efficacy of HA-based eye drops.
A 2021 review in the journal Polymers analyzed multiple clinical trials and concluded that eye drops containing 0.2% to 0.4% hyaluronic acid are effective at reducing symptoms of dry eye and improving overall eye health.
It is also frequently used during eye surgery to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Furthermore, contact lens technology is now incorporating slow-release hyaluronic acid to provide continuous moisture throughout the day.
Best Forms for This Benefit
- Topical (Eye Drops): The most direct and effective application. Available over-the-counter and by prescription in various concentrations.
- Contact Lenses: Some modern lenses are infused with HA for enhanced comfort.
6. Could Hyaluronic Acid Help Preserve Bone Strength?
This is an emerging area of research, but early findings suggest that hyaluronic acid may play a supportive role in maintaining bone density.
The Mechanism: Supporting Bone-Building Cells
The hypothesis is that hyaluronic acid may help slow the rate of bone loss by supporting the activity of osteoblasts—the cells responsible for building new bone tissue.
In conditions like osteopenia (the precursor to osteoporosis), the balance shifts towards bone resorption by osteoclasts.
By potentially stimulating osteoblast activity, HA could help maintain a healthier equilibrium.
The Scientific Evidence
The evidence in this area is still preliminary and largely based on animal and test-tube studies.
For example, older studies in rats with osteopenia found that HA supplements helped slow the rate of bone loss.
Test-tube studies have also shown that high concentrations of HA can increase osteoblast activity.
However, it’s important to note that human clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects.
This benefit should be considered promising but not yet proven in humans.
Best Forms for This Benefit
- Oral (Supplements): This is the form being investigated in preliminary studies, though no definitive human dosage has been established for bone health.
7. Is Hyaluronic Acid an Effective Treatment for Interstitial Cystitis?
For individuals suffering from interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as painful bladder syndrome, hyaluronic acid offers a targeted treatment that can provide significant relief.
The Mechanism: Repairing the Bladder Lining
The inner lining of the bladder is coated with a layer of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), including hyaluronic acid.
This GAG layer is thought to protect the bladder wall from irritants in the urine.
In IC, this layer may be damaged or defective, allowing substances to penetrate the bladder wall, causing pain, inflammation and a frequent urge to urinate.
Instilling hyaluronic acid directly into the bladder helps to temporarily replenish and repair this protective lining.
The Scientific Evidence
Clinical practice and research support this application.
A 2021 review in the journal Toxics confirmed that bladder instillations of hyaluronic acid are a recognized therapy for IC.
Studies have shown that this treatment can significantly reduce bladder pain and urinary frequency in patients.
The treatment involves a series of instillations administered by a healthcare professional via a catheter.
Best Forms for This Benefit
- Instillation (via Catheter): The only effective method for this condition. A solution of hyaluronic acid is delivered directly into the bladder by a medical professional.
A Practical Guide to Using Hyaluronic Acid
Understanding the benefits is the first step, knowing how to choose and use the right product is what delivers results.
This guide will help you navigate the options like an expert.
Decoding the Label: Why Molecular Weight Matters
Not all hyaluronic acid is created equal.
The size of the HA molecule—its molecular weight—determines how it interacts with your skin.
This is a critical detail often overlooked by consumers but is a key differentiator in product efficacy.
- High Molecular Weight (HMW) HA: These are large molecules (typically >1000 kDa). They are too big to penetrate the skin’s surface. Instead, they sit on top, forming a breathable film that binds a massive amount of water. This provides excellent surface hydration, smooths the skin, and prevents moisture loss. It’s great for an immediate plumping effect.
- Low Molecular Weight (LMW) HA: These are smaller molecules (typically <300 kDa) that have been broken down. Research using Raman spectroscopy has confirmed that LMW HA can penetrate the stratum corneum and reach deeper into the epidermis. While they bind less water than HMW HA, they provide hydration at a deeper level and may have biological signaling functions, such as promoting tissue repair.
Expert Advice: The most effective topical products often contain a cocktail of multiple molecular weights. This strategy provides comprehensive hydration: HMW HA for the surface and LMW HA for deeper layers, giving you the best of both worlds.
What to Look For in a Serum
When choosing a hyaluronic acid serum, look beyond the marketing claims and examine the ingredient list:
- Concentration: More is not always better. An ideal concentration of hyaluronic acid is between 1-2%. Higher concentrations can sometimes have the opposite effect, drawing moisture out of the skin if the air is very dry, leading to a tacky or tight feeling.
- Complementary Ingredients: Look for formulas that include other beneficial ingredients that work synergistically with HA. Good partners include Vitamin B5 (Panthenol), which enhances hydration and skin barrier function, and ceramides, which are lipids that help lock in the moisture HA draws in.
- What to Avoid: For sensitive skin, it’s best to avoid serums with high concentrations of alcohol (often listed as SD alcohol or denatured alcohol), which can be drying and irritating. Added fragrances can also be a source of sensitivity for some.
Choosing an Oral Supplement
When selecting an oral HA supplement, consider the following for safety and efficacy:
- Effective Dosage: Based on clinical trials for skin and joint health, an effective daily dose typically falls between 120 mg and 240 mg.
- Source: Most modern hyaluronic acid is produced via bacterial fermentation, making it vegan and free from animal-derived materials. Older sources included rooster combs, so it’s wise to check the label if this is a concern.
- Reputation and Testing: Choose supplements from reputable brands that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Look for evidence of third-party testing (from organizations like NSF, USP, or ConsumerLab) to verify the product’s purity and potency.
Topical vs. Oral vs. Injections: Which Form Is Right for You?
The best form of hyaluronic acid depends entirely on your goals, budget and comfort with invasiveness.
This table breaks down the key differences to help you decide.
| Form | Primary Use | How It Works | Best For | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topical (Serums, Creams) | Skin hydration, fine lines, surface plumping | Hydrates the skin’s surface and upper epidermis by drawing in moisture. | Daily skincare maintenance, improving skin texture, reducing dryness and the appearance of fine lines. | Non-invasive, affordable, immediate but temporary effects. Must be applied to damp skin for best results. |
| Oral (Supplements) | Systemic skin hydration, joint pain relief | Increases the body’s overall supply of HA, which is distributed to the skin, joints, and other tissues from within. | Addressing chronic skin dryness from the inside out, managing mild to moderate osteoarthritis symptoms. | Non-invasive, results take time (4-12 weeks), benefits are systemic (body-wide). |
| Injectable (Fillers, Viscosupplementation) | Volume restoration, deep wrinkles, severe joint pain | Physically fills space to restore volume (fillers) or replenishes synovial fluid in joints (viscosupplementation). | Correcting significant volume loss (cheeks, lips), smoothing deep folds, providing substantial relief for moderate to severe osteoarthritis. | Invasive, requires a medical professional, most expensive, immediate and dramatic results that last for months. |
Are There Any Side Effects or Risks with Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is generally considered very safe, as it is a substance the body produces naturally.
Allergic reactions are extremely rare. However, there are some considerations depending on the form.
- Topical: Considered overwhelmingly safe for all skin types. In rare cases, individuals may be sensitive to other ingredients in a product’s formulation. It is non-comedogenic and safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Oral: Also has an excellent safety profile. A 2012 study where participants took 200 mg daily for a full year reported no negative side effects. As with most supplements, its effects have not been thoroughly studied in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, so caution is advised for these groups.
- Injectable: While the HA itself is safe, the injection process carries risks. Common, temporary side effects include redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness and lumps at the injection site, which typically resolve within a week. More serious complications, such as infection or vascular occlusion (blockage of a blood vessel), are rare but possible. It is absolutely critical that injections are only performed by a qualified, licensed, and experienced medical professional, such as a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hyaluronic Acid
Here are quick, concise answers to some of the most common questions about hyaluronic acid.
1. Can I use hyaluronic acid with Vitamin C and retinol?
Yes, absolutely. Hyaluronic acid is a team player. It pairs exceptionally well with active ingredients like Vitamin C and retinol, as its hydrating and soothing properties can help buffer potential irritation and dryness caused by these powerful ingredients.
2. How long does it take for hyaluronic acid to work?
Topically, the hydrating and plumping effects are often noticeable immediately or within a few hours. For oral supplements, clinical studies show measurable improvements in skin hydration and joint comfort typically between 4 and 12 weeks of consistent daily use.
3. Should I apply hyaluronic acid to damp or dry skin?
Always apply to damp skin. Since hyaluronic acid is a humectant that pulls in water, applying it to a dry face in a dry environment can cause it to pull moisture from the deeper layers of your skin, paradoxically making it feel drier. Applying it to damp skin gives it a reservoir of water to bind to on the surface.
4. Is hyaluronic acid vegan?
Most modern hyaluronic acid used in cosmetics and supplements is vegan. It is produced through bacterial fermentation in a lab setting. Historically, it was derived from rooster combs, but this practice is now far less common. Check the product label to be certain.
5. Can hyaluronic acid cause acne or clog pores?
Hyaluronic acid itself is non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores. However, it is always formulated within a base (like a cream or serum). If you are acne-prone, check the other ingredients in the product to ensure the overall formula is suitable for your skin type.
6. What’s the difference between hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate?
Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form of hyaluronic acid. It is more stable and has a smaller molecular size, which allows it to penetrate the skin more easily than high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid. Many products use it for its enhanced penetration.
7. Can you use too much hyaluronic acid?
Topically, it’s not harmful, but using a product with too high a concentration (or applying too much) can feel sticky or tacky on the skin. Orally, it’s always best to stick to the recommended dosages found on the product label or advised by your doctor (typically 120-240 mg/day).
8. Does drinking more water make hyaluronic acid more effective?
Yes. Staying well-hydrated provides the necessary water for both topical and oral hyaluronic acid to work with. Think of it as supplying the “fuel” (water) for the “engine” (HA) to run effectively. Proper hydration is key to maximizing its benefits.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid has firmly established itself as far more than a fleeting trend.
It is a fundamental, science-backed component of human biology, essential for maintaining health from our skin to our joints.
Its primary power—an unparalleled ability to bind and retain water—translates into a cascade of proven benefits.
We’ve seen how it delivers profound hydration to the skin, visibly reducing fine lines and fortifying the skin barrier.
We’ve explored its critical role as a lubricant and shock absorber in our joints, offering tangible relief for those with osteoarthritis.
And we’ve touched on its diverse functions in accelerating tissue repair, soothing dry eyes and even its potential in emerging areas of health.
The key to harnessing its power lies in understanding its different forms and choosing the right application for your specific goal.
Whether through a multi-weight topical serum for daily radiance, a consistent oral supplement for deep skin and joint support, or a clinical injection for targeted, dramatic results, hyaluronic acid offers a versatile and effective tool for health and wellness.
Ultimately, hyaluronic acid should be viewed not as a miracle cure, but as a way to intelligently support and replenish the body’s own natural processes.
By working with our biology, it helps us maintain the moisture, resilience, and comfort that are foundational to a healthy life.
References
- Papakonstantinou, E., Roth, M., & Karakiulakis, G. (2012). Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermato-endocrinology, 4(3), 253–258. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
- Göllner, I., Voß, W., von Hehn, U., & Kammerer, S. (2017). Ingestion of an Oral Hyaluronan Solution Improves Skin Hydration, Wrinkle Reduction, Elasticity, and Skin Roughness: Results of a Clinical Study. Journal of evidence-based complementary & alternative medicine, 22(4), 816–823. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871318/
- Kawada, C., Yoshida, T., Yoshida, H., Matsuoka, R., Sakamoto, W., Odanaka, W., … & Urushibata, O. (2014). Ingested hyaluronan moisturizes dry skin. Nutrition journal, 13, 70. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25014997
- Zhu, J., et al. (2023). Oral administration of hyaluronic acid to improve skin conditions via regulating the gut-skin axis: A randomized, double-blind, clinical trial. Food Science and Human Wellness, 12(6), 2270-2279. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10661223/
- Migliore, A., & Procopio, S. (2015). Effectiveness and utility of hyaluronic acid in osteoarthritis. Clinical cases in mineral and bone metabolism, 12(1), 31–33. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4469223/
- Tashiro, T., Seino, S., Sato, T., Matsuoka, R., Masuda, Y., & Fukui, N. (2012). Oral administration of polymer hyaluronic acid alleviates symptoms of knee osteoarthritis: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study over a 12-month period. The Scientific World Journal, 2012, 167928. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4729158/
- Litwiniuk, M., Krejner, A., Grzela, T., & Ginalska, G. (2017). Hyaluronic Acid in Inflammation and Tissue Regeneration. Wounds: a compendium of clinical research and practice, 29(3), E78-E83. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5423572/
- Savarino, V., Pace, F., Scarpignato, C., & ESOPHAGUS Study Group. (2017). Randomised clinical trial: a novel, alginate-based, barrier-forming anti-reflux agent (Gaviscon Advance) vs. omeprazole in the treatment of symptoms of non-erosive reflux disease. Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 45(10), 1343-1352. [Note: This study is analogous to the HA/Chondroitin mechanism]. A direct study is: Di Simone, M., et al. (2017). Barrier effect of Esoxx® on esophageal mucosal damage: an experimental study. Journal of Thoracic Disease, 9(4), 1037-1043. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5347926/
- Gomes, J. A. P., et al. (2021). The Role of Hyaluronic Acid in the Management of Dry Eye Disease. Polymers, 13(15), 2449. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7967738/
- Esser, E., & Averbeck, B. (2012). Human skin penetration of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights as probed by Raman spectroscopy. Skin research and technology, 18(4), 55-62. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877232/
- Porenta, G., et al. (2021). The Role of Intravesical Hyaluronic Acid and Chondroitin Sulfate in the Management of Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis. Toxics, 9(11), 283. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9598807/
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Hyaluronic Acid. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22915-hyaluronic-acid
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). The hype on hyaluronic acid. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-hype-on-hyaluronic-acid-2020012318653