The difference between Sodium Hyaluronate and Hyaluronic Acid.

Sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are both forms of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally present in the human body and plays a key role in maintaining the skin's moisture levels.

While these forms of hyaluronic acid are similar in many ways, some key differences do exist which are important to understand when choosing skincare products containing these substances:

1. Weight differences: One of the main differences between sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid is their weight. Sodium hyaluronate is a smaller molecule than hyaluronic acid, which means it can penetrate deeper into the skin. 

2. Penetration depths: The smaller molecular weight of sodium hyaluronate allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin than hyaluronic acid. This can make it a more effective moisturiser across the dermis layers, as it can reach the deeper layers of the skin where hydration is most needed.

3. Moisturising benefits: Both sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid are effective moisturisers and effectively help in keeping the skin hydrated and plump. They work by attracting and retaining moisture in the skin, which helps to fill in fine lines and wrinkles and give the skin a more youthful appearance.

4. Combination use: Some premium skincare products include both forms of hyaluronic acid, which effectively provide the benefits related to both forms. Because of the different characteristics as noted earlier, they can penetrate different layers of the skin, thus providing a more complete hydration regime.

5. Branding: Various forms and processes are used to extract these products - it is really important to find a sustainable brand who utilise only sustainably sourced ingredients.

6. Preservation: In order for hyaluronic acid or sodium hyaluronate to be effective, they need to be preserved in a way that prevents them from breaking down or losing their effectiveness. It's important to look for products which use gentler preservatives or are free of preservatives altogether and ensure the product comes to you in airless packaging. Kalōnology Responsible Skin Care use one the of most advanced airless, refill cartridge, ultra low impact packaging systems throughout industry today so you get the full effect of these ingredients and their packaging is much kinder on the environment too. 

7. pH: The pH of the product is another important factor to consider. Hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate are most effective at lower pH levels (around 5.5). If the pH level is higher than that, the effectiveness of the product may be reduced.

8. Other ingredients: The other ingredients in the product can also affect the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate. Avoid products that contain ingredients that can irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction, such as fragrances or parabens.

Whilst both forms of hyaluronic acid can be highly effective at moisturising the skin, the smaller molecular weight of sodium hyaluronate allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin and provide more hydration.

 Look out for premium products which use both forms in a single product and you will be assured of getting the best outcome in terms of hydration, moisturisation and overall skin health.