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One of our favorite topics for skincare is hyaluronic acid, but you might be wondering can hyaluronic acid be absorbed orally?
A few weeks ago, I shared a supplement on instagram stories I was taking. I had so many messages about what it was, I decided to do a post on it.
Today, we will be discussing important things you need to know about hyaluronic acid supplements.
As always, we will have all the scientific facts for you, but also personal experience taking this supplement. I always like to share with you the science, but also the results I have seen.
Can Hyaluronic Acid Be Absorbed Orally?
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Before we begin, let’s review what role this component has in the body. Hyaluronic acid is a part of the extracellular matrix molecule (ECM) and is found in almost every part of your body. It is predominately found in skin, tissues, and synovial fluid. This article from Dermato Endocrinology has a fascinating breakdown of every square inch you will find hyaluronic acid molecules. It is everywhere in your body! Even your eyes.
Chemistry wise, the hyaluronic acid molecule is a non-sulphated glycosaminoglycan with repeating units of N-acetyl-d-glucosamine and d-glucuronic acid.
Hyaluronic Acid for Joints
The most popular reason to use this acid is for the lubrication of joints. The synovial fluid around our joints is full of HA. Theoretically, using this as a supplement can help lubricate your joints. In fact, HA can be injected into joints for easing arthritic pain.
It is also used in some eye surgeries for eye lubrication.
So, Can Hyaluronic Acid Be Absorbed Orally?
We mentioned above, this acid can be injected into tissues for lubrication. There are many forms of HA available as a supplement ranging from powders to liquids. Can it be absorbed?
There is some controversial research about taking hyaluronic acid as a supplement. It gets degraded in the intestines, but is then distributed to tissues and skin.
Most people who I know taking HA as a supplement, see the benefits of it!
Using Hyaluronic Acid with Collagen Is the Secret!
On Chemistry Cachet, we have talked collagen for years! It is the NUMBER one supplement I take for joint health. It also helps skin and hair! You can read about the function of collagen here plus the way I like to use it here.
Here is the thing, HA can actually help the body to produce and USE collagen. So, taking them together can be even more beneficial.
If you recall from this article, collagen also needs vitamin C to bind properly. They all work together!
Collagen Vs Hyaluronic Acid
There are many scientific based research articles and testing experiments that prove hyaluronic acid is very beneficial for the synovial tissue. There are also studies about using collagen for joint pain.
In our bodies collagen is the elasticity in our skin. Hyaluronic acid is the moisture or water that surrounds the collagen. You can see the diagram above for how it looks in our skin.
They need each other!
How to Take Hyaluronic Acid as a Supplement
We have talked now about why we need HA and collagen for our joint health, so now we need to talk about how to actually use it as a supplement!
First, you must have the right amount of vitamin C in your diet for hyaluronic acid and collagen to bind properly. Vitamin C is an important molecule for collagen synthesis and maintenance. In fact, my mom has taken collagen supplements for years, but was still experiencing some skin issues. She added in a vitamin C supplement, and the results were amazing for her skin. You can take all the collagen and HA supplements, but if there isn’t enough vitamin C in your body, it won’t be able to produce or carry the collagen.
Like we mentioned above, hyaluronic acid also helps your body produce and use collagen. From the diagram, you can see how our tissues need both of these substances.
This is why I like to take all three together!
This is what I do:
- Each morning I rotate collagen and HA (So, on Monday I take my collagen supplement, Tuesday I take the HA supplement, and so on)
- Every day I take a vitamin C supplement (This is in addition to my regular multi-vitamin)
You can use our collagen concoction for mixing your collagen or HA supplement. It is a great base for either one!
What is the Best Hyaluronic Acid Supplement:
Neocell is one of my favorite brands for collagen and hyaluronic acid because they are affordable, good quality, AND they work!
I have also tried this one which is shown in the pictures above. It also has ginger in it. I enjoyed using it too, but the Neocell brand is just as good.
After testing many forms, I have found liquid HA supplements to work better versus the pill forms.
Important Safety Tips
If you want to start taking a new supplement, it is ALWAYS a good idea to check with your doctor first. Especially if you are already taking other supplements or medication. Hyaluronic acid and collagen are safe supplements already found in our body, but it is better to check with your medical professional before beginning anything new.
I can only recommend the brands mentioned in the paragraph above. Be sure to keep an eye out on brands you want to try. Many contain added fillers and ingredients that aren’t good for you. On the flip side, many expensive brands might not be any better. It is not worth your money to spend hundreds of dollars on expensive collagen or hyaluronic acid.
Head to our Amazon store for more supplements we recommend.
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Alexis is an investigative chemist sharing her expertise in cleaning, skincare, gardening, and home hacks. She personally tests out products like the best skincare products or home products then shares not only the science behind how it works, but also her personal results. She is the mom of two living in Texas with her husband. Find her on Instagram for fantastic videos, tips, and behind the scenes.
Interesting. Until today I only knew that HA could be applied topically to boost/maintain skin moisture. Never thought about it to be ingested. I’ve been thinking of using it topically but never bought any to try. Will read up more on its role in the body.
I think it’s the best substance to use topically! Safe and affordable, but also has the best results. I think it is also important to take orally especially for joints!
Muito obrigado.
aAchei o artigo muito interessante e esclarecedor.
Thanks!
I found this really interesting
Thank you! It is such a great supplement to use
Hi, You say you take all 3 together, but then you say you take Collagen one day and HA the next (both with V C. Am I misinterpreting something? It would seem taking all 3 every day would be right. Thanks
No, that’s correct. Each day I take vitamin C…then I alternate taking collagen and HA. One day I take collagen, the next day I take HA. I don’t think it is necessary to take a dose of both collagen and HA each day, but you can if you would like. When I say I take all 3 together, I mean I am taking these 3 supplements together as a regimen. Hope this helps!
Thanks for clearing that up. This article has been very informative because no one ever mentioned that Vitamin C is needed. We can learn a lot from Chemists, Pharmacists, etc.
You’re welcome! It has made such a difference using a vitamin C supplement, I hope you enjoy it too 🙂
Can you get the same amount of collagen from homemade bone broth than the supplement? I use organic chicken or bison. Thanks.
Bone broth is a great source of collagen! It can vary in amount though, so it just depends on the amount you eat and the amount that was infused into the broth. It typically won’t contain as much as a supplement, but it is a good alternative
Also, here is our post on bone broth: https://chemistrycachet.com/the-truth-about-bone-broth/
Many Reviews on Amazon state this brand has bad smell and yellow coloring that clumps when mixing. Also reports of broken seals on jars and covered expiration dates. These complaints as compared to Whole Foods and Vitamin Shoppe.
Hi Beverly! I’ve used this brand for many years as do most of my family, friends, and colleagues. I’ve nevr experienced any of these issues you mention. I’ve also bought it on amazon and at my local grocery store. Always a good experience. Also, all of our readers have had a good experience with it. Most of the reviews I’m seeing on amazon for the links I have are good. Always make sure you are purchasing the correct brand for the correct distributor. There are many distributors on Amazon that are not necessarily affiliated with Amazon, just 3rd parties. Hope this helps 🙂
The collagen container states “may contain trace amounts of sulfite.” I am allergic to sulfa. Is this the same thing?
These are possible sulfites that naturally occur in foods. They are also a natural substance often found in condiments like mustard and ketchup. The container states it may contain trace amounts, so probably not anything to effect someone. It is different that sulphates, but please ask your doctor! It’s important to discuss any allergies and supplements with them
For skin results is oral sufficient or does it need to be applied topically as well?
I like to apply topically also which can help with the top layer of skin
I take HA. I was taking Advil in large quantities(6-8 a day) and my Dr. recommended HA. He takes it per his wife(also a dr) I tried some from Walmart and it did nothing. Next visit he told me to take the NOW brand which his wife got on Amazon. It is in capsule form, 100mg. It has made a big difference and I only have to bump in advil if i really hurt myself or something “goes out” I don’t do powders or liquids. I was wondering if there was a collagen supplement you could recommend that is in capsule form? I consume a large amount of vitamin C daily in my foods. I eat lots of fruits and drink pure orange juice every morning. I only supplement vit C if I am expecting to be exposed to illness, travel etc. I am interested in adding the collagen but not liquid. I also take a cholesterol med based on Red rice yeast and a CoQ10. I am avoiding a statin. I have enough aches and pains. I am 66 and enjoy reading you articles. I love that it is from strictly the science perspective.
Thank you
The neocell collagen I use also has pill form! I know many readers take it and like it too! Having a good amount of vitamin c in your diet is very helpful. I’m glad you enjoy our articles and hope they are helpful for you 🙂
Alexis – Thank you so much for giving valuable information and sharing your opinions.
Gale – I think we are very similar. I have same situations as you and I am near the same age. It’s always a puzzle. Keep reading and learning. I have taken the RYR for 15 years….? Does it work well for you to keep cholesterol down?
Thanks Suzanne!
I have been using HA in my cream and never thought of it internally. I do take orgain collagen every day for a year or so. I came across an ad by Beverly Hills MD Dermal Repair Complex – and then I did a little research and found you. I appreciate your approach for alternating product every other day as I know that I do too much at times. I have limited biotin since I’ve been religious about collagen. I had 24 inches of long hair and went to have it layered. I thought she was my friend and when I got up my hair is cut off at my neck. I was shocked! Beside feeling betrayed (as my hair was way better than hers) I want to grow it back quickly. It took 28 mos to grow it that long. I’m 62 so I’m on a mission:*) Thanks for your website and store on amazon. I enjoy your products.
So glad you found us!!
Great article. Thank you for providing this information. I have just started taking HA in pill form, but then heard that it doesn’t get absorbed in pill form. I had used HA topically as well, until my dermatoligist told me that it really isn’t effective topically.
I’m excited to try the two products you recommended. Thanks again.
Terena G.
The liquid HA makes such a difference! Hope you enjoy trying it out!