Hyaluronic acid is known as the body's natural moisturizer and is located throughout the human body. Almost every cell in the body contains some hyaluronic acid, however, it is found in particularly high concentrations in a few specific areas. In order to understand the benefits that hyaluronic acid provides for the body, we need to take a look at each of these areas and understand what purpose hyaluronic acid fulfills in each location.
Bones and cartilage
All bones and cartilage throughout the body contain hyaluronic acid. It is present in particularly high amounts in the hyaline cartilage. Hyaline cartilage is often referred to as gristle cartilage because it is very resistant to wear and tear. Hyaline cartilage occurs in quite a few places throughout the body, it covers the ends of the long bones where bending can occur, it provides support at the end of the nose, in the lungs it acts as the supporting cartilage for the trachea and bronchial tubes. It connects the sternum to the ribs, and it is the major component of the larynx.
Synovial fluid
Synovial fluid could be called the motor oil of the body. It acts as a form of shock absorber for the joints. It is secreted by the synovial membrane which is present around joints. Synovial fluid also has a secondary purpose of transporting nutrients to the cartilage and removing waste out of the joint capsule.
Scalp tissue and hair follicles
It is the presence of hyaluronic acid that provides healthy hair and a moisturized scalp. Hyaluronic acid is present in the dermal layer of the skin where the hair follicles are found.
Lips
Lips are largely made of connective tissue formed of sodium hyaluronic acid and collagen. The purpose of the collagen is to keep the skin tight and firm while the hyaluronic acids bind to water and hydrates all of the surrounding area keeping the collagen well-nourished and giving the body plump well-hydrated lips.
Eyes
Inside the eyeball, there is a high concentration of hyaluronic acid. The fluid inside the eye is made up almost entirely of hyaluronic acid. The purpose of the fluid is to cushion shocks to the eye and to carry nutrients into it.
Gum tissue
Hyaluronic acid is essential for healthy gums. The gums are made up of a connective tissue the outer part of which is surrounded by hyaluronic acid which hydrates and nourishes the gums.
The Skin
Nearly 50% of all the hyaluronic acid in the body can be found in the skin. It is found in both the visible epidermal layers and in the deeper dermal areas. Hyaluronic acid provides the moisture that the skin needs to stay healthy.
These are just a few of the functions that cosmetic grade hyaluronic acid fulfills in the human body every day. Without the hydrating effects of hyaluronic acid, our bodies would dry out and simply could not operate the way they should.
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