Formulating effective skincare products requires a deep understanding of the ingredients used, and hyaluronic acid (HA) is no exception. With various molecular weights available, choosing the right type of hyaluronic acid is crucial for achieving desired cosmetic outcomes, particularly for hydration and anti-aging. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. offers high-quality hyaluronic acid raw materials to support your formulation needs.

Understanding Hyaluronic Acid Molecular Weights
Hyaluronic acid's effectiveness in cosmetic applications is largely determined by its molecular weight. Different sizes offer distinct benefits:

  • High Molecular Weight (HMW) Hyaluronic Acid: Molecules larger than 1600 kDa create a protective film on the skin's surface. This film acts as a barrier, preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and providing long-lasting surface hydration and suppleness. It's excellent for general moisturization and maintaining skin barrier integrity.
  • Medium Molecular Weight (MMW) Hyaluronic Acid: Ranging from 200 kDa to 1600 kDa, these molecules offer good moisturizing effects and help retain skin suppleness with a slower release and absorption rate.
  • Low Molecular Weight (LMW) Hyaluronic Acid: Typically between 10 kDa and 200 kDa, LMW HA can penetrate deeper into the epidermis, providing more intense and long-lasting moisturization. This makes it particularly effective for addressing dryness and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Oligomeric Hyaluronic Acid (Oligo HA): With molecular weights below 10 kDa, these very small molecules are readily absorbed by the epidermis, offering deep moisturization, anti-aging benefits, and aiding recovery after sunburn.

Strategic Formulation Choices
For cosmetic formulators, a common strategy is to combine different molecular weights to achieve comprehensive benefits. For instance, using a combination of LMW HA for deeper epidermal hydration and wrinkle reduction, along with HMW HA for surface moisture protection, can yield superior results for mature or very dry skin types.

Key Considerations for Incorporation:
  • Avoid Heating: Hyaluronic acid can degrade rapidly when exposed to heat. It should ideally be added during the cool-down phase of formulation.
  • Minimize High Shear: High shear mixing can break the HA strands, reducing its moisture-binding capacity. Gentle, low-shear mixing is recommended.
  • Usage Rates: Typically, 0.1-0.5% is used for general skin hydration benefits, while higher concentrations (up to 2%) might be used to create viscous, hydrating gels.

NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. provides a range of hyaluronic acid powders, allowing you to select the precise molecular weight needed for your innovative cosmetic products. By carefully choosing and incorporating hyaluronic acid, you can create effective skincare that truly delivers on its promises of hydration and anti-aging.