Hyaluronic Acid in the Skin: What It Is, How It Works, and Which Type Is Truly Effective.

The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and one of its most important components for maintaining hydration and elasticity is hyaluronic acid. This compound, naturally present in the body, has an extraordinary ability to retain water and keep tissues hydrated.

In cosmetics, hyaluronic acid has become one of the most valued ingredients for hydrating, smoothing, and improving the appearance of the skin. However, not all types of hyaluronic acid are the same, nor are they produced in the same way.

Understanding how it works in the skin, how it is produced, and the different types available helps us choose formulations that are more effective and respectful of skin biology.

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What Is Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a molecule belonging to the glycosaminoglycan family, present in the extracellular matrix of tissues such as the skin, cartilage, and eyes.

Its most remarkable characteristic is its ability to retain water: a single molecule can attract up to 1,000 times its weight in water, helping to:

• maintain skin hydration
• Improve skin elasticity
• support tissue regeneration
• reinforce the skin barrier function

In the skin, it is mainly found in the dermis, where it acts as a type of molecular sponge that helps maintain the tissue’s water balance.

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How Hyaluronic Acid Is Produced in the Skin

Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by skin cells called fibroblasts through enzymes known as hyaluronan synthases (HAS).

These enzymes synthesize hyaluronic acid from cellular precursors and release it into the extracellular matrix, where it performs several key functions:

• water retention
• structural support of tissues
• cellular communication
• skin regeneration

However, this natural cycle gradually changes over time.

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How Hyaluronic Acid Degrades

Hyaluronic acid undergoes a continuous renewal cycle in the skin. It is mainly degraded by:

• enzymes called hyaluronidases
• oxidative processes caused by free radicals
• UV radiation
• natural aging

From around the age of 25–30, the production of hyaluronic acid progressively decreases, which can contribute to:

• loss of hydration
• reduced elasticity
• the appearance of fine lines

For this reason, modern skincare formulations often include hyaluronic acid to support the skin’s natural hydration levels.

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The Synthetic Form of Hyaluronic Acid for Cosmetic Use

In cosmetics, hyaluronic acid is commonly used in the form of Sodium Hyaluronate, a more stable and soluble salt.

Its chemical structure consists of a repeating chain of two sugars:

• glucuronic acid
• N-acetylglucosamine

This structure allows it to form a molecular network capable of capturing and retaining water, creating a hydrating film on the surface of the skin and, depending on its molecular size, interacting with different skin layers.

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Types of Hyaluronic Acid According to Their Origin

Not all hyaluronic acid used in cosmetics is obtained in the same way. Historically, two main sources have been used.

Animal-Derived Hyaluronic Acid

For many decades, hyaluronic acid was extracted from animal tissues, especially:

• rooster combs
• cartilage
• slaughterhouse by-products

These extraction processes involved several disadvantages:

• risk of biological impurities
• variability in quality
• very large high-molecular-weight molecules
• lower bioavailability for the skin

For these reasons, its use has significantly decreased in modern cosmetics.

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Plant-Based Hyaluronic Acid Through Fermentation

Today, the most advanced and sustainable method is biotechnological fermentation.

In this process, microorganisms ferment plant-derived sugars to produce highly pure hyaluronic acid. This method offers multiple advantages:

• higher purity
• ethical and animal-free production
• precise control of molecular weight
• better skin biocompatibility

Biofermented hyaluronic acid allows the creation of very low molecular weight molecules, which interact more effectively with the skin.

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Molecular Weight of Hyaluronic Acid: Why It Matters

Molecular weight determines how hyaluronic acid behaves on the skin.

High Molecular Weight

• large molecules
• remain on the surface
• create a hydrating protective film
• provide an immediate smoothing effect

Low Molecular Weight

• smaller molecules
• greater interaction with superficial skin layers
• deeper hydration
• support for the skin barrier function

The most advanced cosmetic formulations now use biofermented very low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, currently considered one of the most effective standards in modern skincare.

This is the type of hyaluronic acid used by Ami Iyök, selected for its high purity, biotechnological origin, and excellent skin compatibility.

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Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid is one of the key components for maintaining skin hydration, elasticity, and overall health. Understanding its origin and different types is essential when choosing truly effective skincare products.

Today, low molecular weight biofermented hyaluronic acid represents the most advanced option in cosmetic science, offering more efficient hydration and better compatibility with the skin’s biology.

Advances in cosmetic biotechnology allow the development of formulations that are increasingly respectful of both the skin and the environment, combining efficacy, science, and sustainability.