Hyaluronic acid is showing up in numerous beauty and skin care products. It has humectant properties, which retain moisture. It can be a great addition to various skincare and hair care products. Also, hyaluronic acid can cause fewer skin reactions as compared to other skincare ingredients and therefore it can be started without much of a hitch.
Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by different parts of the body, including the skin and eyes.
The research on its benefits and side effects is very limited and more existing research focuses on how its supplements and topical treatments can improve hair and skin health.(1)
While choosing hair care products it is important to look for strengthening ingredients like keratin, collagen, and nourishing oils.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid to Hair
Hyaluronic acid can absorb its weight in water and that adds moisture to hair follicles. This can be helpful in providing smoothness and less frizz to the hair.
As a person ages, the production of hyaluronic acid decreases, and this, makes hair look dry.
Products containing hyaluronic acid can be helpful in revitalizing hair, boosting hair’s ability to hold moisture, and improving hair’s overall look and texture.
Adding hyaluronic acid to the daily routine can be helpful in curbing hair loss.
Other Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid
Along with improving hair health, hyaluronic acid can be helpful in the following:
- Treating dermatitis
- Improving overall skin health
- Easing joint pain
- Eye dryness and discomfort
- Speeding up wound healing
- Easing symptoms of acid reflux
Reducing the appearance of signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles
The benefits of hyaluronic acid depend on what purpose it is used for and whether it is used topically or taken as a supplement. It can also be given in the form of injections as filler.
Can Everyone Use Hyaluronic Acid?
Anyone with dry frizzy hair can use hyaluronic acid. It potentially adds volume to the mane. It can also be effective for a dry scalp. Hyaluronic acid can also be effective in moisturizing flaky and dry areas.
Ultra-dry hair is more porous than healthy hair and porous hair has a hard time retaining water. Therefore, any moisture that gets into the strands is spilled out. Hyaluronic acid helps in reducing porosity and minimizes moisture loss.
Even those with luscious locks can add hyaluronic acid to maintain hair health.
Risks and Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid
There is currently no evidence of any side effects of topical hyaluronic acid. Experts state it can be very safe for skin and hair. Also, having an allergy or sensitivity to hyaluronic acid is very unlikely.
Only those wanting to take supplements should check with the doctor. As hyaluronic acid is unlikely to cause any side effects, a person can look over the ingredient list to check for other ingredients that one could be allergic to. Also, before starting any new product make sure to do a patch test (applying a small amount of it to a small area on the body) before applying it all over the scalp.
Even if there is little research on the benefits of hyaluronic acid for hair, it does show the potential to improve the hair by locking in moisture and improving its appearance.
