Hyaluronic Acid
A molecule so common that its biology is often forgotten: hyaluronic acid is one of the best-described components of the extracellular matrix, and a reference for skin hydration.
- Research Use Only
- Molecule under study
- Living document
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- Current research state
- A reference molecule, widely used in cosmetics and approved in the form of medical devices (dermal injections, viscosupplementation).
- Current clinical phase
- Multiple approved products (cosmetics, medical devices, injectables).
- Last update
- 21 July 2026 · Reference fact sheet v1.0
- Living document
- Updated regularly as research progresses.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a linear glycosaminoglycan composed of repeating disaccharide units (glucuronic acid + N-acetylglucosamine).
Highly hydrophilic, it binds and organizes large amounts of water in tissues, which makes it a key component of skin hydration.
It is naturally present in the skin, synovial fluid, vitreous humor, and many connective tissues.
Names you may come across
This molecule may appear under several names in the scientific, clinical or technical literature. Here are the main designations you may come across.
Common name.
Official name currently recommended in the scientific literature.
Most widely used abbreviation.
Understanding it simply
Three simple reference points for understanding hyaluronic acid.
A molecular sponge
Its ability to retain water explains its central role in tissue hydration.
An endogenous molecule
It is naturally produced by the body, in the skin, joints, and eyes.
Multiple molecular weights
Formulations vary according to chain length, with distinct properties in terms of penetration and visual effect.
What research shows today
Science advances step by step. We clearly distinguish what is firmly established from what remains under study.
- Structure and physicochemical properties fully characterized. — established
- Physiological role in the extracellular matrix well documented. — established
- Optimization of molecular weights and formulations remains under study. — ongoing
An extensively studied molecule used in cosmetics, dermatology, and medicine (ophthalmic surgery, rheumatology, aesthetic medicine).
What the research shows
- Structure and biological role fully characterized.
- Approved medical use: ophthalmology, rheumatology, dermatology, aesthetic medicine.
- Numerous clinical studies on dermal and intra-articular injections.
What still remains to be studied
- Comparison of different molecular weights in topical formulations.
- Optimization of cross-linking systems for injectables.
What we know today
Not all information carries the same weight of evidence. We therefore present it across three clearly distinct levels, from the most solid to the most indicative.
What scientific publications show
Scientific evidence- Hyaluronic acid is an undisputed reference molecule of the extracellular matrix.
- It is a benchmark for any study on skin hydration.
What some professionals report
Documented- Dermatologists and aesthetic physicians clearly distinguish topical formulations (surface) from injectable formulations (medical devices, strictly regulated medical setting).
What the community reports
Field observations- Community feedback highlights the visible contribution to hydration with topical use.
- These observations are consistent with the molecule's well-known physicochemical properties.
The evidence base is among the strongest in the cosmetic and medical fields.
How does Hyaluronic Acid work?
Hyaluronic acid acts as both a water reservoir and a structural component of the extracellular matrix.
- Extracellular matrix
- A major component of the dermis, with mechanical and hydrating roles.
- CD44 and RHAMM receptors
- Cellular receptors studied in relation to hyaluronic acid-induced signaling.
- Epidermis
- When applied topically, contributes to surface hydration and skin suppleness.
Properties vary considerably depending on molecular weight and route of administration.
Clinical trials timeline
A molecule under study progresses step by step. Here, simply, is where the research currently stands.
- Discovery· 1934Completed
Initial isolation
Karl Meyer and John Palmer isolate hyaluronic acid from bovine vitreous humor.
- Application· 1970s-1980sCompleted
Ophthalmic use
Introduction into ophthalmic surgery as a vitreous substitute and lubricant.
- Cosmetic· 1990sCompleted
Wider adoption in cosmetics
Widespread incorporation into moisturizing cosmetic formulations.
- Aesthetic medicine· 2000sCompleted
Dermal injections
Development of cross-linked injectable products (medical devices).
Available analyses
No analytical document has been published for this molecule to date.
Open the analysis libraryFrequently asked questions
Is hyaluronic acid a medicine?
Established: it is used as a cosmetic active ingredient and as a medical device (dermal injections, viscosupplementation, ophthalmology), depending on the regulatory framework for each product.
Is it identical to the hyaluronic acid naturally present in the skin?
Established: the hyaluronic acids used in cosmetics and medicine are chemically identical to the endogenous molecule. Formulations vary in molecular weight and whether they are cross-linked.
Can it be used by injection?
Established: yes, in a strictly regulated medical setting, in the form of approved medical devices administered by a qualified professional.
Scientific publications
Selected reference publications on hyaluronic acid. Bibliography updated on an ongoing basis.
The polysaccharide of the vitreous humor
Meyer K., Palmer J. W. · Journal of Biological Chemistry · 1934
Glossary
- Glycosaminoglycan
- A long, unbranched polysaccharide composed of repeating disaccharide units, a major component of the extracellular matrix.
- Extracellular matrix
- The collection of molecules located between cells that provide tissues with their mechanical and biological properties.
- Cross-linking
- A chemical process that links hyaluronic acid chains together to prolong their duration of action, particularly in injectable formulations.
Continue your discovery
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Reference fact sheet — version 1.0, updated on 21 July 2026. The full regulatory and scientific framework is gathered in the “Important information” box at the top of the fact sheet.