Does Hyaluronic Acid in Pill Form Work?

Hyaluronic acid is one of the best-known ingredients in the beauty industry, and in recent years, its popularity within the health and supplement industry has upped its anti in recent years. So, what is it about this ingredient we all can’t get enough of?

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a water binding molecule that is naturally occurring in the body. You’ll find it ensures the skin, joints, eyes, and other structures of the body are hydrated. As we age, it’s production begins to slow down resulting in the skin losing its elasticity, and the movement of our joints becoming uncomfortable.

Roughly speaking, there is over 15 grams of hyaluronic acid found in the body, with its multiuse working at benefiting the body all over. With its scientific discovery taking place in 1934, hyaluronic acid is certainly no new kid on the block. However, it’s because of the results seen on the skin that has gained this acid its hydrating reputation. Dehydrated skin will often appear to have fine lines over the skin surface. These lines are usually mistaken as signs of ageing, but with a topical application of hyaluronic acid, the skin appears smoother, hydrated, and healthy. This hydration also works for the joints too ensuring their mobility remains comfortable and lubricated, this is particularly useful for those suffering from arthritis. Not to mention you’ll be able to maintain your eye health too. 

Now that we have had a brief recap of the benefits of hyaluronic acid, we can now dive in to answering some of the questions you have asked about using hyaluronic acid in pill form.

Is topical or oral hyaluronic acid better?

This is very much dependant on the results you are wanting to see when introducing hyaluronic acid into your routine. If your main concerns involve the skin and improving its overall health and appearance, a topical treatment would be the best choice. This is because hyaluronic acid absorbing into skin will have more impact on the overall health and appearance of the skin compared to ingesting it through an oral supplement.

If, however, you are wanting to target joint pain or discomfort, oral hyaluronic acid will work effectively, helping to lubricate the joints and aiding their mobility to be improved. You will also find that hyaluronic acid can be injected into the skin and areas, such as the knees. This form of hyaluronic acid has been proven to be the most have a notable impact on improving the condition. These injections are performed by medical professionals, such as nurses, so if this is something you are considering, consult with your doctor and discuss the best method for you and how you want to treat the concern.

Is hyaluronic acid ingestible?

Yes, hyaluronic acid is ingestible and safe for many to use either applying topically or through oral supplements. Many find that hyaluronic acid capsules have beneficial results and can target an array of concerns, such as.

• Cataracts
• Osteoarthritis
• UTIs
• Acid reflux
• Dry eyes
• Wound healing
• Ageing and severely dry skin
• Arthritis
• Joint pain and discomfort

As a capsule form hyaluronic acid is easily incorporated in your daily routine, with many choosing to have their oral supplements in the morning. This allows the entire day to reap the rewards and help support the health and comfort of your joints, such as your knees and elbows.

How long does it take for hyaluronic acid to be absorbed?

Hyaluronic acid is water-soluble, meaning it absorbs into the body rapidly compared other oil-soluble compounds. You will find that in a day, hyaluronic acid would have absorbed into your body and out the other side, due to you having to urinate. This requires you to have more the following day. With that in mind, the amount of time it should take to start noticing a difference in your joint health after 2-3 days of ingesting hyaluronic acid supplements.

As for seeing a difference in the appearance of your skin, this may take longer, reaching more than 4 weeks. This is because although the skin is our largest organ, it is not considered “vital” compared to heart, lungs, and kidneys. This basically means that if the skin needs to benefit from any water being draw in by hyaluronic acid, it will wait at the back of the queue, leaving it with little water at all.

Does hyaluronic acid absorb through the skin?

Yes, it absolutely can, and it does so very rapidly. There are three different hyaluronic acid molecular sizes all of which can reach different layers of the skin, starting with the epidermis and working their way down to the dermis. These various forms of hyaluronic acid are often formulated into certain skincare products, such as serums. Serums are thought to be the most effective formula to deliver optimal skin hydration as the light-weight consistency can absorb effectively compared to thicker textures, such as moisturisers.

The downside to topical applications with hyaluronic acid, is the fact that you can apply too much to the skin. If you overapply you HA serum you’ll find the acid works as drawing in water from the area surrounding the face, once there’s no water left it will set to work on the lower layers of the skin drawing water up to the surface. This overtime will cause the skin to dry out and susceptible to damage caused by free radicals such as, pollution, UV light, and other environmental aggressors. To avoid this, it is recommended to always ensure you follow the instructions of your products.

Is hyaluronic acid bad for your liver?

No, it is thought that hyaluronic acid is bad for your liver, however, it can change depending on the severity of the problem. This is why we strongly suggest that any hyaluronic acid product introduced into your lifestyle, be it oral, topical, or injectable, should be done with the help and guidance of a medical professional.

I hope that this has cleared up some questions you had about hyaluronic acid and whether it effectively works in pill form. Don’t hesitate to get in touch over on our Instagram.