Hyaluronic acid has a gel-like consistency due to its unique viscoelastici XA material that acts as liquid and solid depending on its handling process. It is used in skincare products to add a hydrating element. properties (1). This helps in providing structural support to the skin, leaving it firm and plump. Chemically, it is a biopolymeri XThese polymers are made by the cells of living organisms to perform antibacterial and anti-inflammatory treatments. made of N-acetyl glucosaminei XIt helps the skin regenerate itself as it reverses the skin cells, while hydrating and lightening hyperpigmentation of the skin. and D-glucuronici XIt helps remove harmful substances from the body through urine, as well as balances estrogen and progesterone in the body. acid (2). Hyaluronic acid has the following properties (1)
Hygroscopic (attracts water) Viscoelastic Bacteriostatic effect (prevents the growth of bacteria) Biocompatibility (compatible with living tissue and does not have a toxic effect) Anti-inflammatory (does not cause inflammation) Anti-oedematous (prevents swelling) Antioxidant (fights free radical damage)
It is widely used in cosmetics, tissue engineering, drug administration, and wound healing as it can promote cell regeneration without any side effects. So, can we use hyaluronic acid to promote hair growth? Find out in the next section.
Hyaluronic Acid for Hair Growth: Does It Work?
Hyaluronic acid may help promote healthy hair growth. It is believed to act as a fertilizer that conditions the hair and scalp, thus promoting cell rejuvenation. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it stimulates hair growth and thickness. A research study showed that a blend of hyaluronic acid, collagen, and chitosan helped in increased thickness of the hair strands (2). Thus, it may help add volume to your hair. As we age, the hyaluronic acid in our body decreases. This is true for the dermal cells surrounding our hair follicles, too. This can be one of the reasons why our hair turns dry and brittle hair as we get older. So, replenishing hyaluronic acid can help in conditioning the hair so it looks smooth and feels soft. This humectant locks in moisture which smoothes cuticles, making the hair strands stronger and less prone to breakage. Apart from improving elasticity, it can also add shine to your hair as sealed cuticles reflect light evenly! Thus, hyaluronic acid may help give you longer, thicker, and glossier hair. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove this. Cosmetically, the appearance of the hair would be improved, potentially making it look longer and thicker. So, how do you use hyaluronic acid on your hair properly? Keep reading to learn how to use it in your hair care routine.
How To Use Hyaluronic Acid For Hair Growth
Note: Do not towel dry your hair before you apply the HA serum. You can use HA to hydrate your hair and reduce frizz and brittleness. The most important thing to remember is that you only need to use a tiny amount of it as it absorbs 1000 times its weight in water! Here’s how you can use hyaluronic acid to treat various hair problems:
Fight Frizz: It is most effective when you use it on damp hair. Simply apply the product evenly from the roots to the tips of your hair. Strengthen Hair: Simply mix a few drops of HA in your deep conditioner. This will up your deep conditioning treatment since hyaluronic acid is super hydrating for your hair. Refresh Curls: This holds true for 2-day curls. HA will replenish moisture and add life to your droopy curls. Simply apply it through the lengths of your hair. Protect Colored Hair: Apply HA serum to your chemically processed hair. This will restore moisture, seal the cuticles, and protect your hair.
We have learned about the many benefits of using hyaluronic acid for hair. But, what about its side effects? Find out how safe it is to use in the next section.
Are There Side Effects Of Using Hyaluronic Acid For Your Hair?
No, hyaluronic acid is safe to use for your hair. Since it is a natural component of your body, it does not cause any side effects. Just keep in mind to use little amounts of it as it can dry out your hair. It is a humectant. It is very good at pulling moisture into the hair. However, it would work the opposite in a dry air atmosphere and pull the moisture out of the hair. So, hyaluronic acid can transform your dull, dehydrated locks without any harmful side effects. If you are wondering which products with hyaluronic acid to incorporate into your hair care regimen, we have you covered! Check out our best picks below.
Top Hyaluronic Acid Hair Products
1. IGK Thirsty Girl Coconut Milk Anti-Frizz Shampoo
IGK Thirsty Girl Coconut Milk Anti-Frizz Shampoo is rich in coconut milk and hyaluronic acid. This super nourishing and moisturizing product will lock in moisture and keep your hair frizz-free all day long! It can be used on color-treated hair as it offers UV protection. Thus, it prevents your hair color from fading quickly. The ingredients used in this product are plant-based and cruelty-free. Pros
Hydrates the hair and scalp Vegan Cruelty-free Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
Contains artificial fragrance
2. NatureLab Perfect Shine Oil Mist
This lightweight hair mist is a must-have if you have frizzy or dull hair. This lightweight formula is moisturizing and non-greasy. It contains grape stem cells, hyaluronic acid, and platinum fiber that nourish, strengthen, and protect your hair with their potent antioxidants. This eco-friendly brand does not use harmful chemicals. It imparts shine and radiance to your hair with the iridescent extracts of pearls in it. Pros
Lightweight Imparts shine Non-greasy Enhances hair color
Cons
Contains phenoxyethanoli XA chemical used to increase the shelf life of a product, preventing growth of bacteria, fungus and mold.
3. Noah Restorative Treatment Hair Mask
True to its name, Noah Restorative Treatment Mask has hydrating ingredients that replenish the moisture in your locks. This Eco-certified brand uses natural and organically sourced avocados in their hair mask. The hyaluronic acid in this product can transform your dull, lifeless, and brittle hair with its moisturizing properties. Pros
Moisturizes the hair Eco-certified Anti-aging formula Suitable for dull, dehydrated hair
Cons
Expensive
Hyaluronic acid is a natural constituent of our body, so it suits every hair texture. It locks in moisture and promotes cell growth and thickness. It is a great ingredient to include in your hair care routine to tame frizz, add shine, and strengthen your hair. You can use it as hair serum or a leave-in conditioner to protect your hair from pollution, humidity, and harsh weather conditions. Hyaluronic acid is suitable for all hair textures. From locking in moisture to promoting cell growth and thickness, it has a lot to offer. You can add this ingredient to your haircare routine if you want to tame the frizz and add more shine to the tresses. This acid also plays a major role in strengthening your hair. Now that you know the significance of hyaluronic acid for hair growth, get ready to protect your hair from harmful external factors like humidity, pollution, heat damage, and more. Check out the infographic below to learn some useful tips for using hyaluronic acid for hair care. Can I use hyaluronic acid every day? Yes. Since hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the human body, it is safe to use it daily. How long does it take for hyaluronic acid to work? Hyaluronic acid may improve damaged hair within 4 weeks of continuous use. What should you not mix with hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid-based products work well with other hair care products. You can also combine them with hair oils. Is hyaluronic acid cancerous? No. Topical hyaluronic acid does not cause cancer. However, oral hyaluronic acid may interact with cancer cells and can be hazardous for people with this disease (3).
