Does Hyaluronic Acid Cause Weight Gain?

Introduction

Hyaluronic acid has become a popular ingredient in skin care products and dietary supplements. Some people wonder if using hyaluronic acid products can lead to weight gain.

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found throughout the body that plays various roles in maintaining skin health and joint function. It is present in many anti-aging topical products and has recently been added to certain dietary supplements as well.

Read on to learn more about hyaluronic acid, its uses, and whether there is any evidence that it can cause weight gain when used topically or taken orally.

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a polysaccharide naturally found in many tissues in the body, most notably the skin, joints, and eye sockets. It binds to water and forms a gel-like substance that provides moisture, structure, and lubrication.

About 50% of the bodys total hyaluronic acid is present in the skin. It helps maintain collagen and elastin, retains moisture, protects against environmental damage, and gives the skin a plump, wrinkle-free appearance.

HA levels decline with age, leading to dryness, fine lines, sagging skin, and joint pain. Using topical HA creams and taking oral supplements may help restore youthful levels.

Topical Uses

Hyaluronic acid is found in many anti-aging topical serums, creams, and moisturizers.

Because it is a humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, HA applied to the skin attracts and binds moisture. This hydrates the skin, smoothes wrinkles, and improves skin texture.

Oral Uses

Ingestible HA supplements have surged in popularity, with claims they can lubricate joints, accelerate wound healing, hydrate skin from within, and even promote weight loss.

However, HA molecules are quite large, so oral bioavailability is questionable. More research on purported benefits is needed.

Can Hyaluronic Acid Supplements Cause Weight Gain?

Some people suspect that taking HA supplements may lead to extra weight, but there is no clinical evidence to support this claim.

Heres an overview of the science on hyaluronic acid and weight changes:

No Proven Mechanism

There is no known biological mechanism by which hyaluronic acid would cause fat gain or make it harder to lose weight.

HA supplements are marketed more for joint health and skin hydration. These uses have no proven connection to weight regulation or metabolic effects.

Mostly Excreted Unabsorbed

Orally ingested HA has a very low bioavailability, meaning most passes through the digestive system without being absorbed due to its high molecular weight.

Since the majority of the dose taken orally is excreted intact, its unlikely to significantly influence body weight.

No Evidence from Research

Currently, there are no studies showing hyaluronic acid causes weight gain or impedes fat loss.

In fact, a few rodent studies suggest it may have weight loss effects. Obese rats given HA had reduced body fat gain compared to controls.

However, much more clinical research is needed to determine if this effect applies to humans as well.

Used in Weight Loss Supplements

Some dietary supplements designed for weight management contain hyaluronic acid as an ingredient.

This also suggests that manufacturers do not consider HA to be an obesogenic or fat-promoting compound.

Can Topical Hyaluronic Acid Products Cause Weight Gain?

Using hyaluronic acid creams, serums, or other topical products is also very unlikely to lead to extra weight.

Heres why topical HA isnt linked to fat gain:

Doesnt Enter Bloodstream

Topically applied HA does not get absorbed past the outer layers of the skin into the bloodstream.

It provides localized hydration and anti-aging effects on the skins surface without systemic effects elsewhere in the body.

No Metabolic Effects

Hyaluronic acid creams and serums are not associated with any metabolic, hormonal, or nutritional effects or changes within the body.

They simply provide moisture and fill in wrinkles on the applied area of skin without body-wide actions that could potentially increase fat levels.

No Supporting Research

There are no reports or studies supporting the idea that using HA creams or other topical products causes fat gain or weight increase.

The claim is not grounded in any scientific evidence.

Safe Dosage Recommendations

Hyaluronic acid supplements and skin products appear to be safe for most people when used appropriately.

Oral HA

Typical doses in supplements range from 25-300 mg per day. Doses up to 200 mg seem well tolerated.

Higher doses of hyaluronic acid capsules may increase digestive side effects like nausea, bloating, and stomach pain.

Topical HA

Hyaluronic acid creams, serums, lotions, and other topical products can be used safely once or twice daily.

Using more than the recommended application frequency is unlikely to provide extra benefits and may increase risk of mild irritation.

Precautions

People with shellfish allergies should avoid oral HA supplements since they are commonly derived from rooster combs.

Discontinue use of any HA product if signs of allergy, rash, or persistent irritation or discomfort occur.

The Bottom Line

Based on current evidence, there is little reason to believe that using hyaluronic acid supplements or skin products causes weight gain.

HA has no proven obesogenic activity and is unlikely to significantly impact fat metabolism or storage when applied topically or ingested orally.

As with any supplement, its wise to consult your healthcare provider before adding something new to your routine. But rest assured hyaluronic acid does not appear to be associated with fat gain based on available data.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.