What is sodium hyaluronate used for

Sodium hyaluronate is a white or light yellow powder with strong hygroscopicity. It is soluble in water but insoluble in organic solvents such as alcohol, ketone and ether. Its aqueous solution carries a negative charge and exhibits high viscoelasticity and osmotic pressure at high concentrations. Sodium hyaluronate is prone to decomposition by acids, bases or heat treatment. When metal ions such as iron and copper coexist with reducing agents like ascorbic acid or cysteine, they are degraded by oxygen free radicals, radiation, ultraviolet rays and ultrasonic waves. It can also be decomposed by hyaluronidase and chondroitin enzyme. High-molecular-weight sodium hyaluronate can have its molecular weight reduced under the conditions of enzymes, acids and heating. In addition, sodium hyaluronate aqueous solution is a non-Newtonian fluid with good viscoelasticity and rheological properties.

Sodium hyaluronate is a derivative of hyaluronic acid. Due to its special moisturizing and healing properties, it has been widely popularized in skin care products, medicine and cosmetics. So, what exactly is it used for?

Sodium hyaluronate is widely used in the field of skin beauty

The cosmetics and skincare industry also relies heavily on sodium hyaluronate because of its excellent moisturizing properties. The major beauty brands add it to their serums, moisturizers and masks. Its molecular structure enables its adsorption capacity in water to reach 1,000 times its own weight, effectively hydrating the skin and reducing fine lines.

Sodium hyaluronate is generally classified into high-molecular, medium-molecular and low-molecular types, and its function varies with the difference in molecular weight. Generally, the higher the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid, the stronger its water absorption and storage capacity, and the better its film-forming performance, but the poorer its permeability. On the contrary, the smaller the molecular weight, the stronger the permeability. Although it can enter the epidermis and enhance its water storage capacity, its film-forming ability is poor and it cannot lock in the moisture on the skin surface. The common functions and uses are as follows:

Sodium hyaluronate of high molecular weight: It is hard in texture, has cross-linking effect, lasts for a long time, and can play a supporting and filling role. It is suitable for facial feature plastic surgery and can shape sharp edges and corners, such as nasolabial fold filling, tear trough filling, and micro-nose plastic surgery, etc. Its biocompatibility and temporariness make it a safer alternative to permanent fillers.

Sodium hyaluronate of medium molecular weight: Due to its soft texture, it is suitable for soft tissue filling and deep wrinkle removal.

Sodium hyaluronate with low molecular weight: Due to its small molecular weight, it has excellent skin permeability and cell permeability, and is also often used externally in cosmetics.

Sodium hyaluronate is widely used in the fields of food and nutrition

In terms of food and nutrition, sodium hyaluronate has been approved as a food additive in many countries, including the United States, China and the European Union. It is added to functional foods such as beverages, candies and dietary supplements. Studies show that oral sodium hyaluronate can support skin health and joint function by supplementing the body’s natural hyaluronic acid  levels.

Sodium hyaluronate is widely used in the medical field

In the medical field, sodium hyaluronate is a key component in orthopedics and ophthalmology.

Orthopedic clinics usually use it as an injectable joint lubricant for patients with osteoarthritis, especially in the knee joints. Doctors often inject sodium hyaluronate into joints (knees, shoulders) to lubricate and cushion them, providing relief for patients with osteoarthritis. It can act as a shock absorber, relieve pain and enhance mobility.