Hyaluronic acid is a substance produced naturally by our body, found in the eyes, skin and connective tissue. Its main function is to retain water to keep the tissues lubricated, but in reality the acid has several uses, so much so that many people take it as a supplement, or in the form of serums, injections, or eye drops.
In this article we will list seven benefits that you did not expect from this substance. Instead if you are looking for just one review by The Ordinary, one of the most famous brands on the market.
1) Fuller skin
The hyaluronic acid supplements they give the skin a fuller appearance, counteracting the negative effects of age, but also of bad habits such as excessive exposure to the sun. By taking them regularly, you can give your body an extra dose that helps your skin retain water. How much? At least 120mg per day for at least one month if you want to see significant results.
Hydrated skin also helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, which is why the acid is also taken in the form of a serum. Its beneficial effect in this case also affects redness and dermatitis.
2) It can speed wound healing
Hyaluronic acid plays a key role in wound healing, which is one reason it is present in the skin. In addition to helping wounds heal, it reduces inflammatory processes, but also the size of wounds and pain.
Also, it has antibacterial properties. It is also widely used in oral surgery, because it helps fight bad healing phenomena. In this case it is taken in gel form.
3) Relieve joint pain by keeping them well hydrated
Hyaluronic acid is also found in the joints, where it helps keep them well lubricated by preventing the bones from touching each other. That's why it's very useful for those suffering from osteoarthritis, a degenerative disorder that attacks the joints.
The recommended dose, in this case, reaches 200mg per day, and can also be taken with injections and infiltrations.
4. Relieves symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux
New studies have shown that hyaluronic acid relieves the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, in particular by accelerating the healing process of the esophagus damaged by gastric juices. Furthermore, taking hyaluronic acid reduces reflux symptoms by up to 60% more than when taking normal anti-acids.
5) Relieves ailments related to dry eyes
Dry eyes affect nearly one in seven adults, and since hyaluronic acid retains water, it is often used to combat this. In this case, eye drops are used. But it should be noted that even the contact lenses themselves are immersed in a solution that contains a small percentage of hyaluronic acid.
6) Preserve bone strength
New research on animals has shown that a constant intake of hyaluronic acid can block the bone degeneration process. It must be said, however, that these studies are still in an embryonic stage and have so far only been conducted on animals.
7) Can prevent bladder pain
Nearly 6% of women suffer from a condition called interstitial cystitis, or painful bladder syndrome. This disorder causes bladder pain and weakness, along with a frequent urge to go to the bathroom. While the causes are unknown, it has been studied instead that the use of hyaluronic acid with infiltrations can bring beneficial effects, probably thanks to the ability to regenerate tissues.
Precautions and possible side effects
Hyaluronic acid, as a rule, is very safe to use. In fact, there are few side effects it causes, as well as allergic reactions, since it is an element naturally produced by our body. However, its effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not yet been studied, which is why these two categories should only take it after consulting a doctor.
In addition, some studies have shown an accelerating effect with respect to cancer cells. For this reason, those with a family history of cancer should avoid it. Greater side effects have also been identified in the treatment of osteopathies, but they do not depend on the acid, but on the procedure for injecting it.
