The Science and Benefits Behind Hyaluronic Acid

We received fantastic news this week about our founder, Irene Michaels. She’s not only a role model for so many, but she’s also an entrepreneur who continues to provide innovative ideas on combining health, beauty, and fashion. On this occasion, her anti-aging beauty product I On Youth Collection by Irene Michaels Roll-On Serum was featured in Life & Style Weekly Magazine, reaffirming her reputation as a leading voice for proactive attention to beauty at any age.

I’d like to focus specifically on the benefits of a key ingredient found in Irene’s serum – hyaluronic acid. If you’re like me, then perhaps this is one of the first times you’ve heard of this. As I began to do some research, though, I realized how beneficial this naturally occurring molecule really is.

From the New York Times to Elle, hyaluronic acid is being lauded for its anti-aging properties. But, what is hyaluronic acid? Technically, it’s “a viscous glycosaminoglycan that occurs especially in the vitreous body, the umbilical cord and synovial fluid and as a cementing substance in the subcutaneous tissue.” Simply put, it’s a carbohydrate that occurs naturally in your body. When it’s not attached to other molecules, it binds to water giving it a gel-like quality.

According to Hyalogic, “This viscous gel is one of the most heavily researched substances in medicine today with thousands of trials mostly in the fields of orthopedics and eye surgery. Its function in the body is, amongst other things, to bind water and to lubricate movable parts of the body, such as joints and muscles. Its consistency and tissue-friendliness allow it to be beneficial in skin-care products as an excellent moisturizer. Because HA is one of the most hydrophilic (water-loving) molecules in nature with numerous benefits for the human body it can be described as ‘nature’s moisturizer.’”

What this means is that it provides the skin with a luminous appearance due to its high content of water. Hyaluronic acid basically acts like a sponge holding a high volume of water which allows it to plump up the skin, making it “dewy,” reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It improves the texture of your skin, as well as keeping it hydrated. It gives your face that natural, youthful glow.

Amazing, right?

And not only does this little miracle ingredient help you maintain superbly moisturized skin, but it also works in other areas. Hyalogic goes on to report that, “If we compare the joints of the human body to an automobile engine, the joint fluid in the body mimics the oil in a car engine. At regular intervals, we replace the oil in our car engines because of the heat and friction breakdowns the oil’s viscosity. The oil becomes thinner and less able to protect the metal surfaces from excessive wear. Hyaluronic acid benefits our joints in the same way. As we age the viscosity of the joint fluid lessens. HA helps to maintain normal joint cushioning.”

Hyaluronic acid first appeared in 1942 when Endre A. Balazs applied for a patent to use it in bakery products. He then went on to become its leading expert, pioneering research on its biological activity and its benefits to the soft tissues of joints and skin.

And now that Irene’s product is on the market, we can all benefit from this miraculous ingredient.

Stay tuned for a brand new collection of anti-aging products featuring the I On Youth Collection by Irene Michaels Roll-On Serum as well as new skincare options.

In the meantime, get yours here!