Ingestible skincare – is it legitimate? Some of the skincare products I use contain hyaluronic acid and since using the products I have noticed a considerable difference in the appearance of my skin. I have since noticed that there are ingestible versions of hyaluronic acid available in the form of pills and liquid. Does ingesting certain skincare ingredients have the same effect as using them in topical creams?
Dr Graham Duncombe from Skin, Body & Health Renewal responds:
“Hi and thank you for an interesting question. The products and ingredients that are applied in cosmeceuticals to the skin are often digested and broken down when ingested, unfortunately. Even oral collagen products have not scientifically proven any statistical absorption at low molecular weights. Hyaluronic acid is really a very fragile molecule and has a large molecular size, which means that the body will not easily absorb it through the intestinal lining either. If one makes the molecule smaller, it won’t work as well. In my experience it is best used as an injection or a topical application. I hope that this helps.”
Have a question about your health? Ask Dr Duncombe here.
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2 Responses
Interesting! Good to keep in mind when someone tries to sell you something strange and pricy, making you think you’re digesting miracles.
How interesting, I have wondered if these products work. It does makes sense that they are not as “powerful” when ingested because the body will break them down before using them. This has been very helpful, thank you!