Usage of hyaluronic acid in medicine and cosmetology

Abstract

USAGE OF HYALURONIC ACID IN MEDICINE AND COSMETOLOGY

Hyaluronic acid is a substance which occurs naturally in human’s system. It is a polymer built out of alternately organized units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, connected by β-1,4- and β-1,3-glycosidic linkage. Hyaluronic acid has a high ability of binding water. With age the production of the hyaluronic acid decreases, which results in the loss of the firmness of the skin and wrinkles. The acid was used to obtain from the roosters’ crests, now it is obtained through biotechnological processes which use the Streptococcus sp. strains of bacteria. Thanks to its features and a high biocompatibility, it is widely used in medicine and cosmetology. The acid undergoes biodegradation in a human’s system, which means that its units are not detected by the immunity system as foreign bodies. Hyaluronic acid improves the level of skin hydration, stimulates the production of both the collagen and elastin, as well as protects the skin from the free radicals. What is more, hyaluronic acid demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity and takes part in the process of wound healing. The loss of the acid from the skin can be prevented by using cosmetic products containing the micro molecular acid or the acid closed in liposomes or undergoing cosmetic or aesthetic medicine treatments. Hyaluronians are also used in other branches of medicine, such as ophthalmology, rheumatology and gynaecology.