Hyaluronic acid vs sodium hyaluronate – which one is better?



Ask a skin expert how to treat dry skin, and we guarantee the answer is just two words: hyaluronic acid. In fact, it's one of the few skin care ingredients that can combat dryness and dehydration. 

But beyond all the great ingredients, there are a host of pertinent questions: So what exactly is it? Is it good for my skin type? Why does the word "sodium hyaluronate" come up so often when I search online? Get all the answers to your questions about hyaluronic acid (and more) below. 

What is hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring sugar in the body. While hyaluronic acid is found in the lips, connective tissue, and joints, half of all hyaluronic acid is found in the skin. 

As a humectant, its main job is to absorb moisture and keep these parts of the body hydrated so that they can function properly. Considering it can hold 1,000 times its own weight in water, it's perfectly suited for the task. 

Similar to collagen and elastin, hyaluronic acid, which occurs naturally in the skin, breaks down as we age, causing dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles. However, when hyaluronic acid is abundant, skin appears soft and plump. 

Eating certain foods, such as leafy greens and starchy vegetables, can stimulate the production of hyaluronic acid in the body. Some people may also turn to supplements. Of course, you can also incorporate this moisturizing ingredient into your skin care routine. 

If you're looking for a lightweight product that helps soothe and absorb moisture above and below your skin, then our Moisture Maker Hyaluronic Acid Serum is the product for you. 

The Importance of Hyaluronic Acid Molecular Size. An important thing to consider when purchasing HA is the molecular size. As a rule of thumb, smaller molecules penetrate deeper into the skin, while the largest molecules act on the surface. 

This is one of the main differences between serums and essential oils, and one of the reasons why serums typically absorb quickly while essential oils absorb slowly to the surface of the skin. 

Since you want moisture both on the surface (hello, plump and smooth) and on the inside (for skin health and to prevent dehydration), it's best to use multiple forms of hyaluronic acid with different molecular weights. 

Look for hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid (a chemically broken down, low molecular weight version of HA) and sodium hyaluronate (more on that below) to moisturize both the surface and subcutaneous layers of your skin. 

What is sodium hyaluronate? If you’re familiar with hyaluronic acid, chances are you’ve come across the ingredient sodium hyaluronate before. In fact, the two terms are often used interchangeably in the skin care world. 

Products labeled as containing hyaluronic acid may actually list sodium hyaluronate in the ingredient list. By definition, sodium hyaluronate is a salt derived from hyaluronic acid and has very similar properties. 

It can also absorb up to 1,000 times its weight in water and is incredibly hydrating. What is the difference between hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate? The main difference between the two is their molecular size and stability. 

Sodium hyaluronate has a lower molecular weight than hyaluronic acid but penetrates deeper than hyaluronic acid. It is also more stable, meaning it is less susceptible to oxidation and has a longer shelf life. 

Are hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate similar? Hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate are both potent, non-comedogenic ingredients that can add a dose of moisture to any routine. When choosing between the two (although they can also be formulated together), consider your skin type. 

While hyaluronic acid generally works for everyone, it's especially beneficial for oily people who don't want as much moisture. Since sodium hyaluronate can penetrate deep into the skin layers, it is ideal for dry or aging skin types. That's why sodium hyaluronate is one of the key ingredients in our Sunday Morning Antioxidant Oil Serum Blend. 

Used with chamomile extract and vitamin E, it ensures a brighter, more hydrated complexion. Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate Benefits Because both forms of hyaluronic acid are so potent and work well with other ingredients, hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate often find a place on the labels of many ingredients, whether in serums, moisturizers, or facial oils middle. You'll find Sodium Hyaluronate in our popular Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream. 

Both ingredients are suitable for all skin types, can be used every morning and/or evening, and are safe during pregnancy. Other benefits include: Moisturizes dry and dehydrated skin Can hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate be used together? really. 

Both are gentle, non-irritating and highly hydrating ingredients - using them together can only help keep skin hydrated. One thing to remember: As a humectant, hyaluronic acid removes moisture from the air so it can do its job. If you live in a particularly dry climate with low humidity, or simply find that your skin still feels dry after using an HA serum, apply the HA serum and apply it while your skin is still slightly damp, then apply a moisturizer or oil. What is the difference between HA and other acids? 

We admit the title "Acid" is a bit confusing. While most acids are reminiscent of peels, the benefits are completely different than those of hyaluronic acid. Despite their names, keep in mind that exfoliating acids like AHAs and BHAs are not produced naturally in the body, but come from things like citrus fruits and milk. These ingredients are often used to exfoliate, treat hyperpigmentation, and relieve acne. Some of these acids, like the lactic acid in Shortcuts, are also humectants. Are hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate vegan? 

Since hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body, it’s not unreasonable to assume it’s not vegan. Technically, that's not the case. Hyaluronic acid is commonly obtained from the umbilical cord and synovial fluid of cattle and horses. The good news is, hyaluronic acid can be synthesized in a lab and your skin won't even notice the difference. Versed only uses vegan ingredients, so you can be sure the HA in all of our products is 100% vegan.

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