The Science Behind Hyaluronic Acid in Aesthetic Medicine

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2026-03-23T19:39:16+00:00

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is one of the most versatile and widely used molecules in modern aesthetic medicine. From injectable dermal fillers to topical serums, this naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan plays a central role in treatments across the UK's 5,000+ aesthetic clinics.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule naturally present in human skin, connective tissue, and eyes. It is a key component of the extracellular matrix and is renowned for its extraordinary ability to bind and retain water, holding up to 1,000 times its weight in moisture. In youthful skin, HA is abundant, contributing to plumpness, elasticity, and hydration. From our mid-twenties, natural HA production declines steadily, contributing to visible signs of ageing.

HA in Dermal Fillers

Cross-linked hyaluronic acid forms the basis of the most popular dermal fillers used in the UK. Cross-linking creates a stable gel that resists degradation, allowing it to maintain volume in the skin for 6-18 months depending on the product and injection site. Different molecular weights and cross-linking densities allow practitioners to choose the ideal filler for each application, from fine lines around the eyes to deep volume restoration in the cheeks and jawline.

HA in Mesotherapy and Skincare

Non-cross-linked HA is used in mesotherapy cocktails and topical serums for deep hydration without volume addition. Skymedic's formulations use multiple molecular weights, with high-molecular-weight HA forming a hydrating film on the skin surface while low-molecular-weight HA penetrates deeper to hydrate from within. This multi-layered approach delivers measurably superior hydration compared to single-weight products.

The Role of Molecular Weight

Understanding molecular weight is critical for practitioners. High-molecular-weight HA (over 1,000 kDa) provides surface hydration and anti-inflammatory effects. Medium-weight HA (100-1,000 kDa) penetrates the upper dermis for plumping and smoothing. Low-molecular-weight HA (under 100 kDa) reaches deeper skin layers, stimulating fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis. The most effective professional products combine all three.

Safety and Biocompatibility

Because HA is naturally present in human tissue, it is exceptionally biocompatible with a very low risk of allergic reaction. Injectable HA fillers are reversible using hyaluronidase enzyme, providing an additional safety margin that practitioners and patients value. All Skymedic HA products are manufactured to ISO 13485 standards with full batch traceability.

Professional HA Products

Explore Skymedic's complete range of hyaluronic acid products, from injectable fillers to mesotherapy solutions and topical serums. All products come with detailed clinical protocols and are available with next-day delivery across the UK.