Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid (pronunciation: /ˌhaɪəlʊˈrɒnɪk ˈæsɪd/), also known as hyaluronan, is a clear, gooey substance that is naturally produced by your body. The largest amounts of it are found in your skin, connective tissue and eyes. Its main function is to retain water to keep your tissues well lubricated and moist.
Etymology
The term "hyaluronic acid" is derived from the Greek word "hyalos" which means glass, due to its transparent, glassy appearance. The suffix "-onic" was added because it is a type of sugar molecule, and "acid" refers to its pH level.
Functions
Hyaluronic acid has a variety of uses. Many people take it as a supplement, but it's also used in topical serums, eye drops and injections. It plays a key role in wound healing and it's particularly effective at repairing tissue damage. It can also relieve joint pain, especially for people suffering from Osteoarthritis.
Related Terms
- Dermatology: The branch of medicine dealing with the skin, nails, hair and its diseases.
- Osteoarthritis: A type of joint disease that results from breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone.
- Connective Tissue: Tissue that connects, supports, binds, or separates other tissues or organs.
- Supplement: Something added to complete a thing, supply a deficiency, or reinforce or extend a whole.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hyaluronic acid
- Wikipedia's article - Hyaluronic acid
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