In This Article
Summary
Hyaluronic acid is the quintessential moisturizer in modern skincare. Naturally present in our skin, it has the ability to retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water. In LUUM, it provides light and deep hydration that leaves the skin plumper, smoother, and visibly younger-looking.
About
Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide that is a natural part of our skin's extracellular matrix, where it acts as a molecular sponge that keeps tissues hydrated, elastic, and plump. Over time and with exposure to environmental factors, the natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases, contributing to loss of firmness and the appearance of fine lines.
In LUUM's Melipona Honey Serum, hyaluronic acid complements the nourishing action of Melipona honey, providing immediate and light hydration that prepares the skin to receive the rest of the active ingredients. Its fluid texture absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky sensation, contributing to the fresh and elegant finish that characterizes the serum.
Science
Hyaluronic acid functions as a powerful humectant: it attracts water molecules from the environment and retains them on the surface and in the upper layers of the skin, creating a reservoir of hydration that is gradually released. A single molecule of hyaluronic acid can bind to up to 1,000 molecules of water, which explains its extraordinary moisturizing capacity.
In cosmetics, different molecular weights are used to act at different levels. High molecular weight molecules form a protective film on the surface that reduces transepidermal water loss, while low molecular weight molecules penetrate the upper layers of the epidermis to hydrate from within, providing a visible plumping effect that smooths fine lines.
History
Hyaluronic acid was discovered in 1934 by Karl Meyer and John Palmer, who isolated it from the vitreous humor of bovine eyes. Its name comes from the Greek "hyalos" (vitreous, glassy). For decades, its use was limited to ophthalmic and orthopedic medicine, where it was used as a joint lubricant and in eye surgeries.
It wasn't until the 1990s that the cosmetic industry began to incorporate it into topical formulations, discovering its extraordinary potential as a moisturizer. Today, it is one of the most recognized and demanded ingredients in the world of skincare, present in products across all ranges and categories.
Origin
Originally, hyaluronic acid was extracted from rooster combs and other animal tissues, but modern cosmetics has migrated towards biotechnological production methods through bacterial fermentation. This process uses bacteria of the genus Streptococcus under controlled conditions to produce high-purity hyaluronic acid of consistent quality.
At LUUM, we use biotechnological hyaluronic acid, free of animal components and with a purity profile that guarantees its effectiveness and compatibility with all skin types.
Did You Know?
Your skin contains approximately half of your body's total hyaluronic acid. However, starting at age 25, natural production begins to decline: by age 50, skin retains barely half the hyaluronic acid it had in youth. This is why topical application is so important to maintain hydration levels. Furthermore, hyaluronic acid not only hydrates: it also participates in skin repair processes and helps regulate the skin's inflammatory response.