Skincare Ingredient
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Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
In Skincare: Is Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid is a modified form of hyaluronic acid.
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Compared to hyaluronic acid, the hydrolyzed version has a lower molecular weight.
- 03
Due to its smaller size, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid is believed to penetrate the skin more readily.
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Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid functions as a moisturizing ingredient.
Key Benefits
What Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Role of Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
HAIR CONDITIONING
Hair SoftenerImproves hair manageability, softness, and appearance
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Hair conditioning ingredients smooth the cuticle, reduce frizz, and add shine through cationic surfactants (behentrimonium chloride), silicones (dimethicone, amodimethicone), natural oils, and proteins. These deposit on negatively charged damaged sites, neutralizing charge, filling surface irregularities, and providing lubrication. Mechanism involves electrostatic attraction, film formation, and surface smoothing.
HUMECTANT
Moisture MagnetAttracts and retains moisture in skin and hair
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Humectant ingredients draw water from the environment and deeper skin layers through hygroscopic properties. Common humectants include glycerin, propylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, urea, and alpha-hydroxy acids. These contain multiple hydroxyl groups or other hydrophilic functional groups that form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. Mechanism involves attracting water to the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss, and increasing skin hydration.
SKIN CONDITIONING
Skin EnhancerMaintains skin in good condition and improves its feel
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Skin conditioning ingredients enhance appearance, texture, and health of skin through various mechanisms. This broad category encompasses emollients, humectants, occlusives, and other agents that improve skin feel, appearance, and function. May work by moisturizing, smoothing, softening, or protecting skin. Effects include improved tactile properties, enhanced barrier function, and better overall skin condition.
Products
containing Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
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References
Scientific sources
Molecules, August 2021, page 4429
GlennCorp.com (supplier), Accessed December 2022, ePublication
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid — common questions
What is Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid in skincare?
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is the hydrolysate of Hyaluronic Acid derived by acid, enzyme or other method of hydrolysis
What does Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid do? / Functions of Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid?
Common functions: HAIR CONDITIONING, HUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid? / Is Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid comedogenic?
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.
Does it clog pores?
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).
Is Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid safe for skin?
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid has a safety rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid; generally non-comedogenic and well tolerated with very low irritation/sensitization reported in cosmetic safety assessments. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
Is Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid good for sensitive skin?
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid has an irritancy rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid in skincare?
Known considerations: Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid; generally non-comedogenic and well tolerated with very low irritation/sensitization reported in cosmetic safety assessments. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that hyaluronic acid and its derivatives, including hydrolyzed forms, are safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%.