Ingredient Encyclopedia

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Discover what’s inside your skincare — from retinol to aloe vera — with clear guides on benefits, uses, and safety.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sodium Hyaluronate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Sodium Hyaluronate is the water-soluble salt form of Hyaluronic Acid ($C_{14}H_{22}NNaO_{11}$). In cosmetic chemistry, it is often preferred over pure Hyaluronic Acid because it is more stable, less prone to oxidation, and has a significantly smaller molecular size. This smaller structure allows it to move past the skin's top layer more easily. As a powerful humectant, it can bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Its primary function is to increase the hydration of the skin's intercellular matrix, which physically "puffs up" the skin, smoothing out dehydration lines and creating a temporary "plumping" effect.