Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid differs significantly from its high molecular weight counterpart, but both have their uses.
High molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW HA) primarily works on the surface, providing a barrier and retaining moisture externally. For this reason it is most often used in face masks and moisturizing creams where it sits on, and just below, the surface of the skin.
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (LMW HA) is designed specifically for enhanced bioavailability. This means it is absorbed and utilized by your body more efficiently, offering better hydration support from within. For this reason, you will most often see low molecular weight as the recommended form of HA when it is an ingredient in beauty serums and injections and for consumption as a supplement.
High molecular weight hyaluronic acid is not advised for consumption because the body struggles to digest and absorb HMW HA compared to LMW HA due to several key reasons:
1. Molecular Size and Absorption:
High molecular weight hyaluronic acid has a larger molecular size, which makes it difficult for the digestive system to break down and absorb efficiently. The large molecules cannot easily pass through the intestinal walls, limiting their bioavailability.
In contrast, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid consists of smaller molecules that are more easily absorbed through the intestinal lining. This increased absorption enhances its bioavailability, allowing the body to utilize it more effectively.
2. Enzymatic Breakdown:
The body's enzymes are more effective at breaking down smaller molecules. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid requires more extensive enzymatic action to break down into smaller, absorbable units, which can be inefficient and incomplete.
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, being pre-cleaved into smaller fragments, can be more readily processed by the body's enzymes, facilitating better digestion and absorption.
3. Transport Across Cell Membranes:
The larger size of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid hinders its ability to pass through cell membranes, which is necessary for effective absorption and utilization in the body.
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, with its smaller size, can more easily penetrate cell membranes, allowing it to be transported into the bloodstream and distributed to tissues where it is needed.
4. Bioavailability and Efficacy:
The limited absorption of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid results in lower bioavailability, meaning that a smaller proportion of the ingested HA is available for the body to use.
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid has higher bioavailability due to its enhanced absorption, making it more effective in supporting hydration and overall well-being.
By choosing a low molecular weight hyaluronic acid supplement, you ensure that your body can more effectively digest, absorb, and utilize this important compound, maximizing its benefits for your health and wellness.
Triple Strength Hyaluronic Acid provides a purposefully manufactured very low molecular weight HA. This means you can enjoy more of the benefits of HA.
