Which is it? Sodium Hyaluronate or Hyaluronic Acid?

Which is it? Sodium Hyaluronate or Hyaluronic Acid?

In today's skincare market, we are enticed to purchase skincare from numerous sources - pharmacies, department stores, not to mention the allure of social media and online promotions. So how do we tease apart the endless options to be getting the best value for our skin (and wallet?).
The simplest and easiest way is by comparing the ingredients and where they sit on the ingredient listing, as well as an understanding of their chemistry and the delivery system of the formula. Furthermore, each ingredient can be represented with a variety of names, so understanding ingredient terminology is also important as a slightly different name could mean a different chemical structure. One such ingredient is Hyaluronic Acid versus Sodium Hyaluronate. How do they differ? What are their benefits? And how are they used in skincare?
Hyaluronic acid is a natural component found in the body, especially in the skin and connective tissues. It plays a critical role in attracting and maintaining the skin's moisture, and as such, can be found in a wide range of skincare products.
Sodium Hyaluronate, on the other hand, is a derivative of hyaluronic acid, and while both are similar in terms of benefits, there are key differences between the two.

WHAT IS SODIUM HYALURONATE?

Sodium hyaluronate is a sodium salt that's been synthesized to form smaller molecules for stability and oxidation resistance. This smaller molecule weight enables greater penetration and hydration at deeper levels. It is used in various forms for medicinal purposes as well as cosmetic skincare products and is particularly useful when included in an active serum formulation.

Skin care uses

If you look closely, you will often find sodium hyaluronate as a key ingredient in a range of skincare products such as creams, gels, lotions, and serums. It is a powerful ingredient as it offers superior hydration by drawing in moisture to deeply hydrate and plump the skin, and support collagen integrity.

Eyes, Body, and Healthcare

In addition to skincare products, sodium hyaluronate also plays a role in treating several medical conditions and is a primary ingredient for the following health conditions:

  • Dry Eyes: Hyaluronate is often used in eye drops to help lubricate and soothe dry eyes.

  • Osteoarthritis: In cases where the synovial fluid has deteriorated in joints due to arthritic conditions or wear and tear, injecting sodium hyaluronate into the joints can help lubricate and cushion joints, reducing pain.

  • Cystitis: Sodium hyaluronate can be used as an intravesical treatment for interstitial cystitis. The solution coats the lining of the bladder to significantly reduce pain and improve the quality of life.

REVIEWING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HYALURONIC ACID AND SODIUM HYALURONATE

The main differences between sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are that the former has a smaller molecular weight and is water-soluble, allowing for deeper penetration and greater moisture retention. While both provide similar benefits, this difference in molecular weight results in different mechanisms of action.

Sodium hyaluronate works deep within the layers of the skin to hydrate, while hyaluronic acid, which often has a larger molecular size, is better suited to protect the surface skin from water loss. Both support collagen via increased water retention, enabling collagen to stretch without breaking.

Another difference is that sodium hyaluronate is less susceptible to oxidation, making it more stable. This is an important consideration, particularly when it is introduced through an active serum. Both are found within skincare products and are prized for their hydrating, plumping, and anti-aging benefits. 

Sodium hyaluronate offers multiple skincare benefits, working wonders to plump up and revitalize the skin, combat the signs of aging, and support overall skin health. Here are some of its unique advantages:

Oily and Problematic Skin

With its small molecular size, sodium hyaluronate is less prone to clogging, making it an ideal hydrating solution for oily and problematic skin conditions. It effectively boosts hydration, penetrating the deeper layers of the skin between connective tissues, absorbing and retaining moisture. This action eliminates dryness and flaking, improves skin firmness, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

In a study examining the effects of creams, serums, and lotions containing sodium hyaluronate, researchers observed significantly hydrated, smoothed, and elastic skin at 2, 4, and 8 weeks of treatment. The link between smaller molecular weight and greater hydration was confirmed by the researchers.

Smooths Wrinkles and Fine Lines

Sodium hyaluronate, a powerful humectant, draws and retains moisture within the skin, preventing the formation of future lines. Proven to be an effective anti-aging treatment, a study examining various types of hyaluronic acid found that the low molecular weight of sodium hyaluronate improved both skin moisture and elasticity while significantly reducing wrinkle depth.

WHAT ABOUT ACNE SKIN?

We all know acne conditions can pose a lot of problems and are notoriously difficult to treat. Many people with acne-prone skin are typically using one or more medicated skincare products to treat their symptoms. Unfortunately a side effect of these can be dry and irritated skin. This may cause an overproduction of oil, in turn causing more breakouts. Sodium hyaluronate is considered safe for all skin types and is non-comedogenic, ensuring it won't clog pores.

Companion Ingredients to Sodium Hyaluronate

Products that feature sodium hyaluronate as their primary ingredient often incorporate additional ingredients to achieve optimal results. This is because the hydrating effects of sodium hyaluronate can be enhanced through the introduction of other beneficial ingredients, such as:

  • Peptides: Peptides also possess water-binding properties, complementing the hydrating capabilities of sodium hyaluronate.

  • Glycerin: Glycerin is an excellent moisturizing ingredient known for enhancing hydration levels.

  • Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid, while similar to sodium hyaluronate, works on the surface level to draw in moisture and prevent water loss, complementing the deeper action of sodium hyaluronate.

  • Vitamin A: Vitamin A is included for its anti-aging and collagen-boosting benefits.

  • Vitamin C: Vitamin C is incorporated for its anti-aging and wound-healing properties.

  • Vitamin E: Vitamin E is added to nourish and protect the skin.

By combining these companion ingredients, skincare products can offer a comprehensive approach to hydration, anti-aging, and overall skin health, providing users with a well-rounded and effective skincare experience.

WHICH IS BETTER?

Sodium Hyaluronate is a synthesised, salt form of hyaluronic acid. While it can provide the same benefits, the mechanism by which it works is different. Due to its much smaller molecular weight, sodium hyaluronate is able to deeply penetrate the skin unlike hyaluronic acid. 

It attracts and binds to water, which allows moisture levels to be maintained in the deeper layers of the skin. This allows hydration of the top layers, supporting collagen and effectively forms and strengthens the skin, plumping and improving the look of fine lines.

While both are similar, if you are seeking deeper penetration we recommend sodium hyaluronate as due its ability to give better results from its size and stability as an active ingredient. At MISMO we only use sodium hyaluronate, which can be found in these products;

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MISMO MSM

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MSM (Methyl Sulphonyl Methane or Dimethyl Sulfone) is an organic sulfur compound found in all living organisms. It is the purest and most bio-available form of sulfur, a crucial mineral for life and cellular regeneration. MSM has long been used as a supplement to support joint health, improve flexibility and mobility, and enhance the strength of hair and nails.

In addition to its joint benefits, MSM is commonly recommended for skin health, helping with conditions like psoriasis and leaky gut syndrome. It’s also supportive for those dealing with mild arthritis and osteoporosis due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

MSM is recommended for those who:

  • Experience joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
  • Want to improve skin conditions like psoriasis
  • Are looking for strong hair, nails, and healthy skin
  • Seek relief from digestive issues like leaky gut syndrome
  • Want to support bone health and manage arthritis

What is the science of MSM?

Sulphur is integral to the production of collagen and elastin, and MSM is a source of organic Sulphur. Collagen is the principal structural protein holding the skin together and is largely responsible for the skin’s mechanical properties.  Approximately half of the body's sulphur content is found in the skin, muscles, cartilage and bones.

Click here for more information on The Science of MSM

Why do we need to supplement with MSM?

Natural MSM is largely destroyed when our food is processed and can be lost entirely when foods and ingredients are stored for a long period of time. MSM bonds with moisture, so any food which undergoes any sort of dehydration will lack its natural MSM.

For these reasons, and because MSM is so critical for almost every athletic function in active bodies, it is important to consistently supplement with a quality MSM nutritional supplement.

How will MSM benefit me?

MSM for Skin, Hair, and Nails

MSM helps protect collagen from degrading enzymes, reducing fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen and elastin production. It also increases the body’s natural production of glutathione, a key antioxidant, which supports the immune system, reduces pigmentation, and prevents cellular damage. MSM acts as an anti-inflammatory, reducing cytokine production (inflammatory compounds) and maintains skin cell membrane flexibility, allowing for better nutrient exchange, keeping skin clear and healthy.

MSM for Joint Health

MSM’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties make it a natural option for reducing pain and inflammation associated with mild arthritis and osteoarthritis. It helps support joint mobility and flexibility by delivering essential sulfur to cartilage and connective tissue, making it valuable for joint health.

MSM for Exercise Recovery

MSM is important for those with active lifestyles, delivering sulfur and methyl nutrients needed for healthy cells in muscles and connective tissues. It supports flexible cell structures, reduces inflammation in muscle tissue, and helps alleviate muscle soreness and joint pain caused by exercise-related inflammation. This makes it especially valued by bodybuilders and athletes for faster recovery and enhanced performance.

Should I buy capsules or powder?

The main difference between MSM capsules and powder comes down to convenience and cost. MSM powder is more economical, as you get more product for the price, making it a great option for daily use at home. However, MSM capsules are more convenient for traveling and ideal for those who don’t enjoy the natural bitter taste of MSM powder, offering a tasteless, easy-to-take alternative.

Where is MSM found and how is it manufactured?

MSM is found in the fluid and tissue of all living organisms. It is present in a variety of foods including raw vegetables, eggs, milk and fish, but is lost through cooking and food processing. One of the richest natural supplies is pine trees and cabbage.

Although MSM is abundant in nature, even the richest natural sources only provide MSM in the level of several parts per million. Commercial extraction of MSM from trees is not possible so a process is undertaken which parallels the natural oxidation that occurs in the marine atmosphere and produces MSM that is a chemical compound identical to that found in nature.

Click here for a detailed explanation of how MSM is manufactured.

What is the difference between Distilled Ultra-Pure MSM and Pure-Crystalline MSM?

With the distilled product, the MSM solution is heated up to a point where the MSM is released as a vapour and the pure crystals are formed and harvested as the vapour cools on the inside surface of a distillation column.  The heating-up of the MSM solution and the subsequent cooling and harvesting process requires a lot more energy, and hence the reason why the price is a bit higher.

With the crystalline product, the MSM solution is "spun" at super-high speed in a centrifuge and the MSM crystals are formed on the walls of the centrifuge.  And although the MSM solution is highly-pure before the crystallisation process begins (having undergone a reverse-osmosis filtration process), there is a remote possibility that if there are any trace impurities in the solution they can become encapsulated in the crystalline structure.

How pure is MISMO MSM?

Every batch of our MSM is rigourously tested by an independent laboratory to ensure the highest possible quality with no additives or anti-caking agents. MSM is gluten free and vegan / vegetarian. Packaged in Australia from imported ingredients.

    How much MISMO MSM should I be taking?

    Start with 1/4 - 1/2 tsp per day (or 1-2 capsules). This is to prevent potential detox side effects (headache or nausea). These are easily avoided with a low start dosage and adequate hydration. 

    After one week, start slowly increasing to the average dose of 2 to 6 grams daily (or 5-6 capsules). Most people take a teaspoon (approx. 4 grams) daily. If more relief is needed, increase the dose slowly. Can be taken in water or juice after breakfast, although there are no rules as to when you should take MSM.

    It is recommended to take MSM in the morning, as it can give a boost of energy. Side effects when starting out with MSM can be nausea and/or headaches. This is not uncommon and is linked to the detoxifying benefits of MSM. We recommend lowering your dose if experiencing these symptoms and gradually increasing with time.

    WARNINGS: If taking strong blood thinners, do not take MSM without your doctor's approval. Not to be taken by children without a health professional's advice.  MSM can also interfere with the accuracy of the blood test for liver enzymes by sometimes producing false positive results. It is recommended you cease taking MSM at least 4 days before these blood tests. You can resume after the test.

    Is MISMO MSM listed with the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration)?

    Yes, click here to view the TGA listing for MISMO MSM

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