Hyaluronic acid (HA) and sodium hyaluronate are two popular ingredients widely used in skincare, medical treatments, and cosmetics. While they are often mentioned interchangeably, they are not the same. This article explores the differences, relationship, and which one might be better suited for specific needs.
What is the Difference
Hyaluronic acid is an acidic mucopolysaccharide that was first isolated from the vitreous humor of bovine eyes. It is widely distributed throughout the human body, with a significant amount present in the skin. Hyaluronic acid exhibits various important physiological functions, such as lubricating joints, regulating the permeability of blood vessel walls, modulating the diffusion and transport of proteins, water, and electrolytes, and promoting wound healing. Particularly noteworthy is its exceptional ability to retain water, making it the most effective natural moisturizing substance discovered to date. A 2% pure hyaluronic acid solution can firmly retain 98% of its water content.
Sodium hyaluronate, on the other hand, is a substance extracted from rooster combs and can also be produced through fermentation using lactic acid bacteria. It appears as white or off-white granules or powder, odorless, with a nitrogen content of 2.8%-4.0% and a glucuronic acid content of 37.0%-51.0% when dried. It is widely used in the cosmetics industry for its moisturizing properties. While hyaluronic acid is an acid, sodium hyaluronate is its salt form, which contains sodium and is more stable, with a smaller molecular weight. This makes sodium hyaluronate more soluble in water and allows it to penetrate the skin more deeply.
Table 1. What is the Difference between hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate
| Hyaluronic Acid | Sodium Hyaluronate | |
| Chemical Structure | A naturally occurring polysaccharide composed of alternating units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine. It is a large, long-chain molecule. | The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid. It is a smaller, more stable molecule due to the addition of sodium ions. |
| Molecular Weight | Has a high molecular weight, typically ranging from 100K-1000KDa. This makes it thicker and more viscous. | Has a lower molecular weight, making it more lightweight and easier to penetrate the skin. |
| Solubility | Less soluble in water | Highly water-soluble |
| Texture | A thicker, gel-like consistency | A lighter, smoother texture |
| Applications | Commonly used in medical applications like dermal fillers, joint injections, and eye surgeries | Frequently found in skincare products (e.g., serums, moisturizers) and eye drops |
What is the Relationship
Despite their differences, hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate are closely related.
1. Shared Origin:
Both hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate are naturally present in the human body, particularly in the skin, joints, and eyes. They play a vital role in maintaining hydration, elasticity, and lubrication.
2. Functional Similarities:
Both are renowned for their ability to attract and retain water, making them excellent humectants. They help hydrate the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and promote tissue repair.
3. Derivative Connection:
Sodium hyaluronate is derived from hyaluronic acid through a process called neutralization, where the carboxyl groups of hyaluronic acid are converted into sodium salts. This modification enhances its stability and solubility.
Which is Better? Hyaluronic Acid or Sodium Hyaluronate
Hyaluronic acid is a biochemical substance with significant clinical value, widely used in various ophthalmic surgeries, such as intraocular lens implantation, corneal transplantation, and glaucoma surgery. It is also utilized in the treatment of arthritis and to accelerate wound healing. When incorporated into cosmetics, it provides unique protective benefits for the skin.
On the other hand, sodium hyaluronate is extensively used in the high-end cosmetics industry and for treating dry eye syndrome. Like hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. However, this form can penetrate deeper into the skin and is more stable in cosmetic formulations (meaning it can last longer).
The question of which is better depends largely on what you’re looking to achieve. For skincare, sodium hyaluronate often takes the lead. Its smaller molecular size allows it to sink deeper into the skin, delivering hydration where it’s needed most. It’s also less likely to leave a sticky or heavy feeling, making it a favorite in lightweight serums and moisturizers. If your goal is to plump and hydrate the skin from within, sodium hyaluronate is typically the better choice.
Stanford Chemical Company (SCC) is a trusted supplier of sodium hyaluronate powder. We provide customers with high-purity, non-animal-derived, non-GMO hyaluronic acid powder (including food grade, cosmetic grade, injection grade, medical grade, eye drop grade, cross-linked gel). Enjoy bulk purchase discounts and contract pricing.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate are two sides of the same coin—closely related yet uniquely suited to different purposes. Hyaluronic acid shines in medical applications and surface hydration, while sodium hyaluronate excels in deep skin hydration and everyday skincare. The choice between them ultimately comes down to your specific needs, whether you’re seeking intense hydration, anti-aging benefits, or medical-grade solutions. Both, however, are exceptional ingredients that deliver unparalleled moisturizing and reparative benefits, making them indispensable in the world of beauty and health.