Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance in the skin that helps keep it hydrated and elastic. Unfortunately, its levels can decrease when exposed to factors that “break down” or degrade it. The biggest offenders include free radicals, UV rays, certain enzymes, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. As a result, skin loses firmness and becomes more prone to dryness. In this article, you’ll learn exactly what speeds up the breakdown of hyaluronic acid – and how you can fight back.
Hyaluronic Acid – Why It’s Important for Your Skin
Hyaluronic acid is a natural compound found in the body, especially in the skin, joints, and eyes. Its unique ability? It binds huge amounts of water, making the skin look smooth and plump. Think of it as a sponge that locks in moisture from the inside.
The problem is, hyaluronic acid isn’t permanent – your body constantly produces and breaks it down. What breaks down hyaluronic acid? As we age and face external stressors, our supply declines faster than it can be replenished.
What Breaks Down Hyaluronic Acid in the Body?
Hyaluronic acid in the body goes through a natural cycle – it’s created, does its job, and then breaks down. That process is normal and necessary. The issue arises when breakdown happens faster than new production. This leaves the skin short on HA, leading to dryness, loss of elasticity, and earlier visible signs of aging.
Both internal processes and external factors contribute. Here are the main ones:
Enzymes – Hyaluronic Acid’s “Scissors”
The body produces enzymes called hyaluronidases that naturally break down HA. This is a normal function that helps maintain balance in tissues. But when activity increases (like during inflammation), HA disappears much faster.
Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress
Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause damage when present in excess. They’re generated by UV rays, air pollution, and smoking. They also attack HA, breaking it into smaller fragments.
Sun Exposure and Photoaging
Sunlight – specifically UVA and UVB rays – fuels free radical production, which degrades HA. The result? Skin loses hydration and elasticity. That’s why unprotected sun exposure often leads to drier, less firm skin over time.
Sugar and Glycation
Too much sugar in the diet and elevated blood glucose trigger glycation – a process where sugars stick to proteins and molecules, damaging their structure. This also raises free radical production, giving HA another hit.
Inflammation
Chronic, low-grade inflammation in the body increases enzymes that break down HA. On top of that, it raises free radicals, further accelerating HA degradation.
Pollution and cigarette smoke
Breathing polluted air or exposure to cigarette smoke increases oxidative stress. The outcome: faster HA loss and weaker skin structure.
Bacteria and Enzymes
Some bacteria can produce their own hyaluronidases. During infections, these can locally break down HA in tissues.
High Heat and Treatments
Saunas, long hot baths, or certain aesthetic treatments (especially those using intense heat or light) may raise free radicals or stimulate enzymes that degrade HA. This doesn’t mean you should avoid them entirely – balance and proper use matter.
Natural Aging
As we age, the body simply produces less hyaluronic acid. Even without additional stressors, this natural decline reduces HA levels over time.
How to Protect Hyaluronic Acid
Knowing what breaks down HA, here’s how to slow the process. While degradation is natural, daily choices can help keep skin healthy, firm, and hydrated for longer.
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Protect skin from the sun – daily sunscreen reduces free radical formation.
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Eat antioxidant-rich foods – fruits, vegetables, nuts, green tea help neutralize free radicals.
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Cut back on sugar – less glycation means slower skin aging.
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Avoid smoke and pollution where possible – lowers oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Keep skin moisturized and protect its barrier – good skincare supports natural HA levels.
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Consider supplements – HA, vitamin C, collagen may support hyaluronic acid production. Always choose safe, well-tested products.
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Live a healthy lifestyle – sleep well, stay active, eat a balanced diet.
Hyaluronic Acid – Things to Watch For and How to Support It
Hyaluronic acid is one of the skin’s key components, responsible for hydration and elasticity. Over time, and due to factors like sunlight, free radicals, sugar, and pollution, its levels gradually decrease. The good news? You can slow the process – by protecting yourself from UV, eating well, avoiding harmful habits, and caring for skin from the inside out.
A helpful addition to skincare may be supplementation – such as Primabiotic Hyaluronic Acid, which includes both high- and low-molecular forms. This combination works on the skin’s surface and deeper layers. Importantly, the Primabiotic formula uses ingredients tested for safety and effectiveness.
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