–Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate, HA)– Organic Super Low Moleculuar Weight (SLMW) ~10 kDa (approx 10,000 Daltons) Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring compound that is found throughout most of the human body. The average 154 pound person has approximately 15 grams of hyaluronic acid in his or her body, with about 5 of those grams being used up and re-synthesized every day. It is most commonly used by consuming it for joint, tendon, and ligament support, or by using it topically when formulated into a serum. Basic instructions to make a serum will be included with every order. Hyaluronic acid (Sodium Hyaluronate) is a naturally occurring substance formed in the human body. It is a glycosaminoglycan which is primarily found in connective, neural, and epithelial tissue (outer surface of the skin) where it acts as a cushioning and lubrication agent for our joints, nerves, hair, skin and eyes. HA has an especially important role in epithelial tissue because it promotes the growth of keratinocytes and retinoic acid (vitamin A metabolite), and it helps collagen synthesis. It is stored in large amounts between the spaces of skin cells. Here it provides moisture where it supplements the skin and improves elasticity and plumpness. As we age our bodies start to produce less and less hyaluronic acid, which decreases moisture in our skin significantly. Applying hyaluronic acid topically is beneficial because it penetrates through the dead layer of the skin (stratum corner) and diffuses deeper into the skin. HA is unique in that it has the ability to hold in 1000 ml of water per gram of hyaluronic acid, giving it the capability to hold a lot of moisture in the skin. The benefits of using hyaluronic acid topically in a serum include increasing the skin’s moisture, elasticity, firmness, and plumpness. Helping to decrease fine lines and wrinkles, providing healthy and youthful looking skin. HA is good for all skin types including oily and combination skin. All of our Hyaluronic Acid is derived from fermented, non-GMO corn, and is completely vegan. Hyaluronic Acid generally has two important differentiating characteristics: Molecular weight and source (animal or vegan). Molecular Weight: This HA has an extremely low molecular weight, which means the molecules are much smaller than other forms of HA. This is significant, because the smaller molecules allow it to penetrate the skin more effectively and easily. The molecular weight of this HA is approximately 10,000 Daltons, which is about as low as you will be able to find. You will notice that when adding it to distilled water to formulate a serum, it will be much less viscous (more watery) than a serum made with higher molecular weight HA. When using SLMW HA, it is advised to use at least 2 grams per 100 ml of distilled water when making serums. Source: All of our Hyaluronic Acid is vegan, and it is derived from non-GMO fermented corn. Domestic orders will be shipped via USPS First Class unless one of the Priority or Priority Express options are selected at checkout. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.