Hyaluronic Acid: Benefits, Side Effects and Precautions
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Jinagam M Praveen Kumar, Orthopedics
Hyaluronic acid is a substance present naturally in the skin, eyes, and joints. Its primary function is to trap water inside tissue cells, keeping the eyes moist and joints lubricated.
It retains a water-like sponge and can absorb 1000 times more than its weight. It also plays a vital role in tissue hydration, lubrication, and cellular function and works as an excellent skin moisturizer.
Hyaluronic acid has various medical and commercial uses. This is available in a variety of forms:
Hyaluronic acid is extracted from rooster combs or made by bacteria in the laboratory.
It can be taken by mouth or injected directly into the affected joint. In women with frequent urinary tract infections, it can also be injected directly into the bladder.
People mostly use Hyaluronic acid to improve skin health, fight ageing signs, and heal wounds.
Our skin contains about half of the Hyaluronic acid in the body. It binds with water molecules that help to keep the skin hydrated and supple. Hyaluronic acid can be used for:
Key Benefits:
Hyaluronic acid functions primarily by:
The skipped dose causes no problem. But with some medications, it won't work if you don't take the dosage on time. If you miss a dose, a sudden chemical change may affect your body.
In some cases, your doctor would advise you to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed the dose.
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Hyaluronic acid tablets, there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body's functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionGenerally, Hyaluronic acid is safe when people follow accurate instructions on how to use it. However, some people can experience adverse effects from it.
A person should go for a test patch before using any new skin products. A person who receives injections that contain Hyaluronic acid can experience some serious side effects like:
Serious but Rare Side Effects:
Consult your doctor if side effects persist or worsen.
Avoid straining your knee joint for 2 days after receiving Hyaluronic acid injections. Also, avoid certain activities like jogging, soccer, tennis, heavy lifting, and standing on your feet for a longer time.
Temporary pain or swelling in the knee joint may occur after receiving a hyaluronic acid injection.
Who Should Avoid Hyaluronic Acid:
Use With Caution If You Have:
Pregnancy
Hyaluronic acid is said to be safe if given through injection. But to be on safe side talk to your doctor before using Hyaluronic acid.
Breastfeeding
Hyaluronic acid is unsafe if injected while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you're breastfeeding.
Hyaluronic acid is found in various forms. These are found in flavoured and unflavored liquid formulations.
Some of the over-the-counter remedies contain a combination of Hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
Can Interact With:
Always inform your doctor of all other supplements and medications you're using.
Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. The exposure of medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children's reach.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Before taking Hyaluronic acid consult your Doctor. In case if you face any problems or get any side effects after taking Hyaluronic acid rush immediately to your nearby hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment. Carry your medications always in your bag while travelling to avoid any immediate emergencies. Follow your prescription and follow your Doctor advice whenever you take Hyaluronic acid.
| Hyaluronic Acid | Retinol |
|---|---|
| Hyaluronic acid is a substance which is present naturally in the skin, eyes and joints. The primary function of Hyaluronic acid Is to trap water inside tissue cells, keeping the eyes moist and joints lubricated. | Retinols are the best skin care products in the market. It is used to treat anti-ageing concerns as well as acne. |
| Hyaluronic acid can be used for anti-ageing, Healing wound, Relieving joint pain, Soothe acid reflux symptoms, Relieve dry eye and discomfort, Preserve bone strength | Retinol is made from Vitamin A. It goes deep beneath the epidermis to your dermis. Retinol helps to neutralize free radicals for boosting the production of elastin and collagen. It treats acne, wrinkles |
| Some serious side effects like:Pain, Itching, Bruising | Some of the common and major side effects of Retinol are:Skin redness, burning and stinging, Dermatitis |

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Yes, hyaluronic acids work for the skin. Hyaluronic acid improves skin health and to fight with ageing signs.
Hyaluronic acid is extracted from rooster combs or is made by bacteria in the laboratory.
Yes, hyaluronic acid is generally safe and well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Yes, it can be used daily—morning and night—especially when layered with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.
While it doesn't treat acne directly, its hydrating properties help maintain a healthy skin barrier, which can support acne treatment.
Yes, hyaluronic acid pairs well with both retinol and vitamin C, helping to balance their potentially drying or irritating effects.
Apply it to slightly damp skin and follow with a moisturizer to seal in the hydration for maximum benefit.
No, it’s also used in joint injections, eye surgeries, and lip or facial fillers due to its lubricating and cushioning properties.
It temporarily plumps the skin and smooths fine lines, but deeper wrinkles may require more intensive treatments like fillers.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.