Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring molecule known for its ability to attract and retain water. As a humectant, HA can hold up to one thousand times its weight in moisture, making it a popular ingredient in cosmetic and supplement products. Pregnancy often leads individuals to scrutinize every ingredient in their daily routine. Determining the safety of this widely used molecule during gestation requires differentiating between its application methods.
Understanding Hyaluronic Acid and Its Role in the Body
Hyaluronic acid is a type of sugar molecule, or glycosaminoglycan, that is a fundamental component of the body’s connective tissues. It is found in high concentrations in the skin, eyes, and synovial fluid of the joints, where it contributes to lubrication and shock absorption. The body constantly synthesizes and breaks down HA, with approximately one-third of the total amount turning over daily. This molecule helps maintain tissue elasticity and hydration within the extracellular matrix. Its widespread, natural presence is why HA is generally well-tolerated.
Using Topical Hyaluronic Acid During Pregnancy
Topical hyaluronic acid, found in serums and moisturizers, is widely considered safe for use throughout all trimesters of pregnancy. This high safety profile is due to the molecule’s large size, which significantly restricts its ability to penetrate the skin’s surface. High molecular weight HA remains on the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis), preventing water loss and providing surface hydration. This limited penetration ensures that little HA enters the systemic circulation in amounts that could affect the fetus.
Low Molecular Weight HA
Some cosmetic formulations utilize low molecular weight HA, which is engineered to be smaller and can penetrate deeper into the epidermis and upper dermis. Although these smaller fragments travel further, the resulting systemic absorption is still considered minimal and poses a low risk.
Ingredient Safety Check
Pregnant individuals should inspect the full ingredient list of HA products, as they are often combined with substances not recommended during pregnancy. Substances to avoid include retinoids (such as retinol and tretinoin) and high concentrations of salicylic acid. Consulting with a dermatologist or obstetrician remains the best practice when adjusting a skincare routine during pregnancy.
Using Oral Hyaluronic Acid Supplements During Pregnancy
The use of oral hyaluronic acid supplements requires a higher degree of caution compared to topical application, primarily due to the lack of comprehensive human clinical trial data. Although HA is a natural substance, the concentrated doses in supplements are not equivalent to natural dietary intake. Regulatory bodies have not assigned a specific pregnancy safety category for oral HA, meaning its effects when absorbed are not fully established. General medical advice is to avoid starting or continuing oral supplements during pregnancy unless explicitly advised by a healthcare provider.
The supplement must be absorbed systemically to provide benefit, which is the mechanism that raises safety questions during pregnancy. A few preliminary observational studies have explored the effect of high molecular weight HA combined with other nutrients. These studies suggested a potential benefit in reducing adverse outcomes, such as preterm birth and miscarriage, in certain high-risk groups. However, these are small-scale pilot studies, and the observed effects cannot be attributed solely to the HA component. Until large-scale, randomized controlled trials are conducted, a cautious approach is warranted for oral HA supplementation during gestation.