Hyaluronic acid during pregnancy

What is the function of hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a molecule found in the intercellular matrix of the dermis. Thanks to its chemical properties, it is able to bind up to 250 water molecules. In this way, it provides the skin with the necessary elasticity and firmness. For young people, the amount of hyaluronic acid in the dermis is high, which gives the skin its characteristic smoothness. However, with age, its content decreases and the amount of bound water decreases, which leads to wrinkles and decreasing firmness of the skin.

However, hyaluronic acid is not only important for healthy-looking skin. This substance is also present in the synovial fluid. It affects the proper viscosity and is also involved in the nutrition of cartilage, proper lubrication of the joint surface and distribution of nutrients in the joint. Hyaluronic acid also protects joint surfaces from excessive friction and mechanical trauma.  In aesthetic medicine, this compound is used primarily in injectable treatments such as microdermabrasion or lip augmentation. It is also a component of many skin creams.

Hyaluronic acid in pregnancy – is it safe?

Pregnancy is a special period in which the use of a large number of chemicals and drugs is contraindicated. To a certain extent, this also applies to hyaluronic acid. During pregnancy, injectable treatments of any kind are contraindicated. This means that pregnant women must avoid treatments such as microdermabrasion or lip filling with hyaluronic acid during these nine months. However, this does not mean that the use of this substance during pregnancy is absolutely prohibited. Pregnant women can safely use topical preparations in the form of serums, lotions or creams containing hyaluronic acid. The only contraindication to their use is a possible hypersensitivity to one of the ingredients of the product. In addition, the use of cosmetics containing hyaluronic acid in their composition can bring measurable benefits, such as intense moisturization of the skin, soothing possible irritation, reducing the formation of discoloration or strengthening the natural protective barrier of the skin. However, it should be remembered that each pregnancy is unique, so before using new cosmetics it is worth consulting a gynecologist, who can clear up any possible doubts.