Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid (11kDa) (CAS No. 9004-61-9) is a low molecular weight variant of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan widely recognized for its exceptional hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties. With a molecular weight of 11 kDa, this form penetrates deeper into the skin compared to higher molecular weight variants, making it ideal for targeted skincare and biomedical applications.

Chemical and Physical Properties

• CAS Number: 9004-61-9
• Molecular Formula: C₂₈H₄₄N₂O₂₃
• Molecular Weight: 423.39 g/mol (monomer unit; polymer molecular weight: ~11 kDa)
• Appearance: White amorphous solid
• Storage: Store at 2–8°C for long-term stability.

Mechanism of Action

Hyaluronic acid (HA) binds and retains water molecules, providing intense hydration to tissues. The 11kDa variant’s smaller molecular size allows deeper penetration into the dermis, where it:

• Enhances skin elasticity by stimulating collagen synthesis.
• Strengthens the skin barrier and reduces transepidermal water loss.
• Supports cell signaling and extracellular matrix stability, crucial for wound healing and anti-aging.

Applications

Skincare

• Deep Hydration: Penetrates deeper skin layers, delivering moisture to improve firmness and reduce fine lines.
• Anti-Aging: Combats dryness and thinning by replenishing HA lost with age.
• Enhanced Formulations: Often combined with antioxidants (e.g., vitamins, plant extracts) for synergistic anti-inflammatory and photoprotective effects.

Aesthetic Medicine

• Dermal Fillers: Used in cross-linked forms for wrinkle reduction, lip volumizing, and hand rejuvenation.
• Temporary Results: Offers reversible volumizing effects, prioritizing patient safety.

Biomedical Uses

• Wound Healing: Promotes tissue regeneration due to its scaffolding properties.
• Drug Delivery: Acts as a carrier for targeted molecule transport.

Molecular Weight Significance

• 11kDa HA: Falls within the 6–20 kDa range, associated with immunostimulatory and angiogenic activities.
• Penetration: Smaller molecules (like 11kDa) hydrate deeper layers, while higher weights (>500 kDa) remain on the surface.

Safety and Compatibility

• Generally Safe: Well-tolerated with rare adverse effects; suitable for all skin types.
• Purity: 97% purity minimizes impurities, ideal for sensitive applications.

Key Differentiators

• Deeper Absorption: 11kDa HA outperforms standard HA in delivering hydration to vulnerable skin layers.
• Versatility: Used in serums (e.g., Kiehl’s Vital Skin-Strengthening Super Serum), fillers, and biomedical hydrogels.

In summary, Hyaluronic Acid (11kDa) is a potent hydrator and anti-aging agent, leveraging its low molecular weight for enhanced efficacy in skincare, aesthetics, and biomedicine. Its reversible effects and biocompatibility make it a staple in both cosmetic and therapeutic formulations.

Citations:

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22915-hyaluronic-acid
2. https://otcoclinic.com/blog/properties-and-applications-hyaluronic-acid/
3. https://www.kiehls.sa/en_SA/kiehls-blog/ingredients/discover-how-hyaluronic-acid-benefits-your-skin.html
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7464276/
5. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Hyaluronic-Acid
6. https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/27/9/2902
7. https://www.kiehls.com.au/explore-the-benefits-of-hyaluronic-acid-for-skin.html