8 Hyaluronic Acid Formulations for Skin & Hair Hydration

Hyaluronic acid formulations have become a go-to in both skin and hair care for their unmatched ability to deliver deep, lasting hydration. From plumping fine lines to soothing dry, flaky scalps, sodium hyaluronate, the salt form of hyaluronic acid, offers formulators incredible versatility across product types. Whether you are developing serums, creams, powders, or hair treatments, this powerhouse humectant can enhance texture, boost moisture retention, and improve overall sensory feel.

Sodium hyaluronate is the water-soluble salt form of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the skin, eyes, and connective tissue. In cosmetic formulations, it works as a powerful humectant, attracting and binding water molecules to the skin or hair. Its smaller molecular structure compared to pure hyaluronic acid allows for easier incorporation into water-based systems and improved stability in a wide range of pH environments.

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In skin care, hyaluronic acid formulations excel at increasing hydration levels, which helps plump the skin and smooth the appearance of fine lines. By supporting the skin’s moisture barrier, sodium hyaluronate helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), creating a softer, more supple feel. This makes it ideal for products targeting dryness, dehydration, or early signs of aging.

Read more: 4 Benefits of Sodium Hyaluronate for Menopausal Skin

Hyaluronic acid does more than hydrate skin; it can also improve the condition of hair and scalp. When applied to the hair shaft, it helps retain moisture and enhance elasticity, reducing breakage. On the scalp, sodium hyaluronate can soothe dryness, calm irritation, and create an optimal environment for healthy hair growth.

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The molecular weight of sodium hyaluronate influences both its penetration and its sensory feel.

• High molecular weight (1.8–2.2 MDa) sits on the skin’s surface, delivering an immediate moisturizing and smoothing effect.
• Medium molecular weight (1.2–1.5 MDa) balances surface hydration with some deeper moisture delivery.
• Low molecular weight (0.2–0.4 MDa) penetrates more effectively, delivering hydration deeper into the skin or scalp.
  Formulators often blend multiple molecular weights for layered hydration and optimal performance.

This pre-wash serum combines gentle exfoliation with intense hydration. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum and strengthen the scalp barrier, while low molecular weight sodium hyaluronate penetrates deeply to boost moisture and comfort. Ideal for dry, flaky, or congested scalps in need of a reset.

A luxuriously whipped daily face cream featuring medium molecular weight sodium hyaluronate to deliver long-lasting hydration and improve skin elasticity. This airy texture feels rich yet absorbs quickly, making it perfect for daily use in hydrating and barrier-supporting routines.

Formulated with encapsulated charcoal beads to draw out impurities and encapsulated menthol for a cooling, refreshing sensation. Low molecular weight sodium hyaluronate keeps the scalp hydrated while helping maintain balance, making it ideal for revitalizing scalp care products.

Try the Detox + Rejuvenate Scalp Serum now!

This innovative hair color treatment uses high molecular weight sodium hyaluronate to maintain scalp hydration during and after coloring. The cationic base ensures even color deposition, while moisturizing agents leave hair soft, smooth, and easy to manage post-application.

A multi-tasking serum that blends high molecular weight sodium hyaluronate, niacinamide, and pearlescent pigments for both instant and long-term radiance. Provides deep hydration, supports barrier repair, and imparts a luminous, golden glow to the skin.

A loose setting powder infused with medium molecular weight sodium hyaluronate to maintain skin hydration while setting makeup. The silky texture offers a soft-focus finish with oil control, ensuring skin looks fresh and smooth all day.

This targeted serum pairs high molecular weight sodium hyaluronate with Defensin-1, a vegan-friendly alternative to bee-derived peptides, for both hydration and skin repair. Designed to soothe, smooth, and support overall skin health.

A brightening and hydrating formula with low molecular weight sodium hyaluronate, vitamin C, and niacinamide. Helps even skin tone, improve texture, and maintain optimal hydration levels for a fresh, luminous complexion.

The molecular weight of sodium hyaluronate determines how it performs in a formula. High molecular weight stays on the skin or hair surface, providing immediate moisturization and a smoothing effect. Medium molecular weight delivers a balance of surface hydration and mild penetration. Low molecular weight penetrates deeper to boost hydration within the skin or scalp. Using a combination of molecular weights can create layered hydration for both instant and long-term results.

Buy Sodium Hyaluronate for your cosmetic formulations

Pairing sodium hyaluronate with other humectants like glycerin, propanediol, or sodium PCA can enhance overall water retention. These combinations help maintain hydration in different layers of the skin or hair fiber, creating a more resilient barrier and improving sensory feel. Consider also adding emollients and occlusives to lock in the moisture drawn in by hyaluronic acid.

Sodium hyaluronate is generally stable in a wide pH range but can degrade in extreme pH or high heat conditions. It is important to verify stability in your chosen formulation base and to conduct compatibility testing with other actives. As a water-based ingredient, it requires effective preservation. Pairing with a broad-spectrum preservative system helps protect against microbial growth while maintaining product safety and performance.

Hyaluronic acid is one of the most versatile ingredients a formulator can work with, offering proven benefits for both skin and hair care. From serums and creams to scalp treatments and even setting powders, its ability to boost hydration, improve texture, and support barrier health makes it a staple in product development.

By experimenting with different molecular weights and pairing it with complementary humectants, emollients, and actives, formulators can create unique sensorial experiences and targeted performance across a wide range of applications.

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