You have probably heard about this product and its beneficial properties in beauty and aesthetic treatments. If so, you likely already know that you can buy it in creams, pills, pure form, and even injections. However, what you might not have been told is that there are two types of hyaluronic acid, and they are distinguished by their molecular composition as well as by their properties.
If you still don’t know the differences between the two types of hyaluronic acid that exist, this article will cover it.
Contents
Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid
First of all, you should know what hyaluronic acid is and what it is used for. Once you have that down, we can start by explaining that this type of product is made up of hyaluronic molecules joined together by Van der Waals bonds, creating a mesh-like molecular structure.
This might sound confusing, but it is the main issue. The differences between cross-linked and non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid lie here. In its union. If it helps, remember that one forms structures by linking its molecules, and this linking process creates volume. And here is the crux of the matter.
In anti-wrinkle treatments, lip enhancement, dark circle removal, or facial fillers, these volume-giving structures are the most sought after and desired. Being able to manipulate a substance with these properties is worth its weight in gold. It can be used to fill wrinkles, expression lines, and age-related changes.
Uses and Properties
The cross-linked type, meaning the one that links internally, is used as an injectable in aesthetics and in knee arthritis treatments. Due to its linking, it degrades less, which gives it better properties to withstand the passage of time.
It is administered subcutaneously, meaning through injections or infiltrations, and is used in non-surgical treatments: cheek fillers, nasolabial folds, lip contouring, etc.
In aesthetics, cross-linked hyaluronic acid is used to add volume and eliminate wrinkles. On one hand, skin folds are filled through injections. On the other hand, thanks to its revitalizing action and hydrating properties, the entire cellular ecosystem is improved.
In medicine, it is indicated for arthritis and osteoarthritis. The treatment involves infiltrations into the affected joints, which provides pain relief and better mobility. Injected into the synovial fluid, it performs its full potential as a lubricating fluid.
In both cases, the properties of cross-linked hyaluronic acid are ideal as it delays absorption by the body. Besides volume, in aesthetics, it achieves longer-lasting treatments. Translated into skin terms, this means a firmer dermis for a longer time. And translated to joints… movement and elasticity.
Non-Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid
On the other hand, the other type of hyaluronic acid is produced when the molecules do not interlink and circulate freely. This creates non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid.
Since the molecules that compose it do not link, they remain in their small size, flowing freely, and can penetrate the skin due to their microscopic size.
This property of the free molecules means that non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid can be applied externally in the form of skin creams, serums, and other products available from various brands. Additionally, depending on whether it is enhanced with other substances like collagen or vitamin C, non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid will create a blend of beneficial effects targeting different groups of people: age, skin type, etc.
Differences Between Cross-Linked and Non-Cross-Linked
It is important to note that the volume offered by cross-linked hyaluronic acid is much greater than its non-cross-linked counterpart. In the case of non-cross-linked, the volumizing effects are subtle, but its use is recommended for daily routines.
Depending on the effects we are seeking, we can differentiate between two types of hyaluronic acid:
2. Hydration and Skin Improvement at a Lower Cost: Non-cross-linked in creams, gels, and tablets for topical or oral use. This type has greater effects on less damaged skin.
Conclusion
It is always advisable to consult a trusted specialist to determine what is most suitable for your skin. Topical or transdermal administration, commonly known as applying cream, will provide a slight volumizing effect due to the large amount of water the product can retain, but its main function is hydration. Therefore, we can use products containing non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid as a supplement to slow down the progression of wrinkles.
For a more significant and long-lasting effect, the option is to use cross-linked hyaluronic acid. However, in such cases, it is always necessary to consult a specialist at aesthetic clinics. The difference: better and longer-lasting effects.