Ingredient Spotlight: Sodium Hyaluronate  

Written by: Christine Jean-Baptiste  

Reviewed by: Dr. Renita Ahluwalia, lead Dermatologist at the Canadian Dermatology Centre    

What Is Sodium Hyaluronate?  

/səʊˈdɪəm ˌhaɪəˈlʊəroʊneɪt/ (SOH-dee-um HAI-uh-LOO-roh-nate)  

Sodium hyaluronate is a water-soluble salt derived from hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body. This ingredient is a hydration powerhouse, capable of attracting moisture to the skin and retaining it, offering significant benefits to dry, dehydrated, or aging skin. As a more stable and smaller-molecule form of hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate penetrates deeper into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration where it's needed most.   

Sodium Hyaluronate Key Information  

• Type of Ingredient: Humectant  

• Main Benefits: Hydrates skin, reduces wrinkles, repairs the moisture barrier, and boosts plumpness.  

• Ideal For: Dry, dehydrated skin or anyone looking for intense hydration and anti-aging effects.  

• Usage Frequency: Safe for daily use, often recommended morning and night.  

• Works Well With: Moisturizers, emollients, and hydrating products.  

• Avoid Combining With: Generally safe with most ingredients, but avoid using in overly dry environments where moisture may be lacking.  

 Benefits of Sodium Hyaluronate for Skin  

• Deep Hydration: It acts as a humectant, pulling moisture from the air to the skin, keeping it hydrated, and preventing flakiness.  

• Repairs Moisture Barrier: Essential for restoring and protecting the skin's barrier, preventing water loss.  

• Reduces Wrinkles & Fine Lines: Replenishes moisture and smooths the skin's texture, reducing signs of aging.  

• Plumps Skin: Delivers instant volume and structure, giving skin a firmer, more youthful appearance.  

• Soothes Acne-Prone Skin: Helps balance the skin, especially if harsh treatments have left it dry or irritated.  

• Eases Inflammation: Gentle enough for sensitive skin, it can help soothe inflammatory skin conditions like eczema.  

 Application Insights  

• In Your Routine: Apply sodium hyaluronate serum or moisturizer on damp skin after cleansing. Use once or twice daily for maximum hydration, particularly in dry climates or colder months.  

• Complementary Products: Combine with emollient-rich moisturizers to lock in hydration or use in conjunction with other hydrating ingredients like glycerin or ceramides for enhanced results.  

• Avoid Overuse: No known side effects, but make sure the environment is humid enough to benefit from the ingredient's moisture-attracting properties.  

 Selecting a Sodium Hyaluronate Product 

 Look for products with sodium hyaluronate high on the ingredient list for optimal hydration. Choose air-tight, opaque packaging to preserve its potency. For best results, select formulas that pair sodium hyaluronate with other hydrating ingredients like glycerin or ceramides to boost moisture retention and support the skin's barrier.  

Summary Points  

Sodium Hyaluronate:   

• A stable, smaller-molecule form of hyaluronic acid that deeply hydrates and plumps skin, improves barrier function and reduces wrinkles.  

• Benefits: Intense hydration, smooths fine lines, supports moisture barrier, and calms inflammation.  

• Ideal For: Dry, dehydrated, or aging skin and sensitive skin needing repair.  

• Usage: Best used twice daily on damp skin, paired with emollient-rich products for locking in moisture.  

• Product Selection: Look for serums, gels, or moisturizers with sodium hyaluronate in hydrating formulas.  

  The Callout  

• Skin Sensitivity: Always patch-test new products before use, especially if your skin is extremely dry or sensitive.  

• Avoid Combining With: No major contraindications, but always check your product's overall formulation to avoid other drying agents or harsh actives.