What Is Sodium Hyaluronate and How Does It Benefit Your Skin?

No ingredient has a hold on the skincare market quite like sodium hyaluronate. These days, you’d be hard-pressed to find a product that doesn’t have it in its formulation. But what is sodium hyaluronate exactly? And why is it so commonly used?

Sodium hyaluronate is a salt form of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the human body. As we age, our natural hyaluronic acid levels deplete, and that moisture loss makes the skin rough and dry. Sodium hyaluronate is a strong humectant, which means that it can attract and retain moisture and help your skin look youthful and supple. This capability makes it an important component of healthy skin. By applying skincare products with sodium hyaluronate, we can restore the skin’s moisture content, soothe and prevent moisture loss. When applied topically, sodium hyaluronate reduces dryness and wrinkles. Here is your guide to using sodium hyaluronate for healthy skin!

In this article

How Does Sodium Hyaluronate Differ From Hyaluronic Acid?

While both sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are obtained from the same source, they have slightly varying properties. Hyaluronic acid works better at hydrating the surface of the skin, whereas sodium hyaluronate can reach deeper layers, due to its lower molecular weight. Furthermore, sodium hyaluronate is a more stable form of hyaluronic acid, making it easier to include in skincare products.

Benefits of Sodium Hyaluronate for Skin Health

• Hydration: The skin is made of 64% water, so one thing it will always need is hydration. Sodium hyaluronate's potential to attract and retain moisture helps maintain healthy, plump skin. It also prevents dryness, flakiness, and fine lines. As compared to high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate can provide a greater hydrating effect.
• Anti-ageing: Sodium hyaluronate boosts collagen production that promotes skin firmness and minimises the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. In a 2014 study, products comprising sodium hyaluronate reduced wrinkle depth and improved elasticity.
• Supporting Skin Barrier: Sodium hyaluronate strengthens the skin's barrier, protecting it from environmental damage and irritants.
• Healing Wounds: Sodium hyaluronate plays an important role in the healing process by boosting tissue regeneration and minimising inflammation.
• Active ingredient enhancement: Because it penetrates the skin, it can enhance the effects of other active ingredients in skin care products, enabling them to get through the outermost layer of the skin.

How Sodium Hyaluronate For Skin Improves Your Skincare Routine ?

Sodium hyaluronate is commonly found in a range of skincare products, such as:

• Moisturisers: Creams and lotions containing sodium hyaluronate can help to hydrate and plump your skin.
• Face Wash: ​​​​A face wash with sodium hyaluronate hydrates your skin while removing makeup, dirt, and excess oil.
• Serums: Serums with a high concentration of sodium hyaluronate penetrate the skin deeply, providing intense hydration.
• Eye creams: Sodium hyaluronate can help to reduce the appearance of under-eye circles and puffiness as well.
• Masks: Face masks containing sodium hyaluronate offer a deep dose of hydration and nourishment to your skin.

 

If you’d like to make your skin more supple, hydrated, and youthful-looking, incorporate products with sodium hyaluronate in your skincare regime. Sodium hyaluronate is safe to use, even when pregnant or breastfeeding. However, if a skincare product with sodium hyaluronate makes your skin irritated or red, stop using it immediately.