Although skin aging is a natural process, the first wrinkles may appear unexpectedly as early as the age of 25. The good news is that signs of aging can be prevented. Sun exposure, smoking, blue light from digital devices, genetics, and hormones — all these factors accelerate the skin’s aging process.
Hyaluronic acid is essential for maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. As we age, the production of hyaluronic acid in the skin decreases, which in turn leads to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and dryness. Below, we share useful tips on how to correctly take hyaluronic acid as a supplement to enjoy natural beauty for longer.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring carbohydrate in our skin that attracts water and helps keep the skin hydrated and plump. It is capable of binding water up to 1,000 times its weight, ensuring skin elasticity and firmness. A large portion of hyaluronic acid in our body is found in the skin, but it is also present in the eyes, skeleton, blood vessels, and umbilical cord.
Although the term “hyaluronic acid” may sound chemical and intimidating, this substance is naturally present in our body and gives the skin a soft, elastic, and youthful appearance.
Over time, the skin’s natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases, leading to dryness, wrinkle formation, and loss of elasticity. By the age of 50, the body has about half the hyaluronic acid it had at 20. Skincare products containing hyaluronic acid — such as serums, injections, creams, and dietary supplements — help:
- Hydrate the skin
- Reduce the depth of wrinkles and fine lines
- Improve skin elasticity and firmness
- Slow down the signs of aging
The Decline of Hyaluronic Acid and Skin Aging
Every woman dreams of maintaining a youthful appearance and confidence for as long as possible. Over time, facial skin inevitably ages, losing elasticity, volume, and moisture. Understanding the stages of skin aging helps in making informed choices about hyaluronic acid supplementation, which in turn helps maintain a youthful appearance and confidence.
About 50% of the body’s hyaluronic acid is found in the skin, produced by fibroblasts. Hyaluronic acid is crucial for maintaining moisture balance in the deeper layers of the skin. As we age, fibroblast production decreases, leading to the following consequences:
- Decrease in hyaluronic acid levels in the skin
- Reduced skin moisture
- Loss of elasticity
- Wrinkle formation
Stages of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Decline:
- 20s: The first signs of aging begin to appear as hyaluronic acid production slows. Fine lines and wrinkles start forming around the eyes and forehead.
- 30s: Hyaluronic acid production decreases significantly. The skin becomes drier and less elastic. Fine lines and wrinkles deepen.
- 40s: Hyaluronic acid levels drop significantly. The skin loses moisture and volume. Deeper wrinkles and folds appear, especially between the nose and mouth.
- 50s: Hyaluronic acid levels are about half of what they were in the 20s. Deep wrinkles dominate. The skin becomes dry, thin, and sagging. Pigmentation changes occur.
- 60s: Hyaluronic acid levels drop by about 75% compared to the 20s. The skin is extremely dry, thin, and lacks elasticity. Deep wrinkles are highly visible.
- 70s: Hyaluronic acid levels are extremely low. The skin is very thin, wrinkled, and lacks elasticity. Pigmentation changes are common.
Maintaining Hyaluronic Acid Levels with Supplements
The decline in hyaluronic acid levels is a natural process that begins around the age of 25. However, aging can be effectively slowed down by strategically incorporating hyaluronic acid supplements into a daily routine. A healthy diet, lifestyle, and skincare regimen provide additional benefits in combating aging.
Hyaluronic Acid Supplement
Although the signs of skin aging first appear on the surface, the process actually begins deeper within the body. Over time, hyaluronic acid production decreases, affecting the skin’s ability to stay hydrated and elastic. As a result, the skin loses its plumpness early, leading to wrinkle formation.
Taking hyaluronic acid supplements is an easy and convenient way to slow down skin aging and maintain a youthful appearance. Consuming supplements effectively restores the body’s hyaluronic acid reserves and hydrates the skin from within.
The advantages of hyaluronic acid capsules:
- Increases skin moisture levels: Hyaluronic acid absorbs and retains water, making the skin plumper and fuller.
- Improves skin elasticity: Hyaluronic acid stimulates collagen production, which gives the skin strength and flexibility.
- Helps prevent wrinkles: Hydrated and elastic skin is less prone to wrinkle formation.
Unlike hyaluronic acid creams, serums, and injections, supplements work throughout the entire body, not just in specific areas. This ensures an increase in hyaluronic acid levels in all tissues, including the skin, joints, and eyes.
Hyaluronic Acid Dosage
The typical daily dosage of a hyaluronic acid supplement is 100–200 mg per day. However, it is important to remember that the right dose depends on individual needs. Some people may require a higher dose to achieve effective results, while for others, smaller amounts may be sufficient.
Some hyaluronic acid capsules are combined with other nutrients, such as vitamin D, collagen, or biotin. In such cases, it is also important to consider the dosage of other nutrients.
How to Take Hyaluronic Acid
- It is recommended to take it with food, as this:
- Improves absorption.
- Reduces the risk of digestive discomfort.
How to Take It?
- Drink plenty of water! Hyaluronic acid requires water for absorption.
- Be consistent! For the best results, it is essential to take hyaluronic acid capsules regularly every day, as reserves in the body are short-lived.
Why is Evening a Good Time to Take Hyaluronic Acid?
- At night, skin cell division and renewal occur more intensively.
- The skin can better absorb nutrients during the night.
Which Nutrients Improve Hyaluronic Acid Absorption?
The absorption of hyaluronic acid in the body can be enhanced by several nutrients that help maintain a youthful appearance:
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps stimulate collagen production, which is crucial for the production and absorption of hyaluronic acid. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, kiwis, bell peppers, and broccoli.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect hyaluronic acid from damage caused by free radicals. Foods rich in vitamin E include vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and avocados.
- Vitamin A: Vitamin A supports skin cell health and improves hyaluronic acid absorption. Foods rich in vitamin A include liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids help maintain skin moisture and reduce inflammation. They are found in fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
- Zinc: Zinc is a mineral essential for collagen production and the absorption of hyaluronic acid. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, meat, beans, and nuts.
In addition to vitamins and minerals, a healthy diet and regular exercise are essential for supporting hyaluronic acid production and absorption.
Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin D Synergy
In the Estonian climate, vitamin D deficiency is a common problem with various negative consequences, including skin aging. In addition to the aforementioned factors, frequent viral illnesses, fatigue, and stress accelerate skin aging. Fortunately, this process can be slowed down, and youthful appearance can be maintained by taking hyaluronic acid and vitamin D together.
The Role of Vitamin D in Skin Youthfulness
Optimal vitamin D levels in the blood stimulate fibroblast activity, which is crucial for skin youthfulness, elasticity, and hydration. Fibroblast activity is inhibited by frequent viral illnesses as well as chronic fatigue and stress. Fibroblasts are located in the deeper layers of the skin and are responsible for the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid:
- Collagen: Provides skin with strength and elasticity.
- Elastin: Ensures skin flexibility.
- Hyaluronic acid: Maintains skin moisture.
Taking hyaluronic acid and vitamin D together helps achieve more effective skincare results and maintain a youthful appearance and health. Thus, the combination of hyaluronic acid and vitamin D is an excellent choice for those who wish to:
- Maintain a youthful appearance
- Strengthen the immune system
- Improve overall well-being
Consume hyaluronic acid wisely and stay youthful for longer!
