Sodium hyaluronate: what it is and the difference from hyaluronic acid

Sodium hyaluronate

INCI: Sodium Hyaluronate

In brief

What it is: the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a humectant with smaller, more stable molecules.
What it does: it retains water, reaches the outermost layers of the epidermis, and leaves the surface more hydrated and smooth.
Where to find it: it's the most common ingredient in LeLang formulas: serums, face creams, eye creams, and masks.

What is sodium hyaluronate

The sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid. It belongs to the humectant family and is, in fact, the form in which hyaluronic acid is used in almost all cosmetics: if you see Sodium Hyaluronate on the label instead of Hyaluronic Acid, it’s not a fallback; it’s the most common choice in formulations.

What’s the difference from hyaluronic acid?

The difference lies in molecular weight and stability. LPure hyaluronic acid has long chains that stay on the surface and form a film that retains water. The salt has smaller molecules, withstands heat and pH changes better, and reaches the outermost layers of the epidermis rather than staying on top. The two aren’t mutually exclusive: the best formulas use them together, at different molecular weights, to work on multiple levels.

How to use it on the skin

In LeLang formulas, it’s by far the most widely used ingredient: it appears in serums, face creams, eye creams, and masks. Apply it to slightly damp skin and always follow with a cream or oil: without something to seal it in, a humectant in a dry environment may draw water from the underlying layers instead of from the air.

How long does the effect last?

LThe effect is reversible and depends on consistent use: it hydrates and smooths the surface as long as the product is applied; it doesn’t permanently change the structure of the skin. A cosmetic product improves its appearance; the volume achieved through injections is another matter and falls under aesthetic medicine.

In the glossary, you’ll find more information abouthyaluronic acid in cosmetics and its molecular weights.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between sodium hyaluronate and hyaluronic acid?

Pure L-hyaluronic acid has long chains that remain on the surface. The salt has smaller molecules, is more resistant to heat and pH changes, and reaches the outermost layers of the epidermis. Used together, they work on multiple levels.

Is Sodium Hyaluronate on the label worth less than Hyaluronic Acid?

No, it's not a fallback: sodium hyaluronate is the form in which hyaluronic acid is used in almost all cosmetics, the most common choice in formulations.

How do you apply sodium hyaluronate?

Apply to slightly damp skin and always follow with a cream or oil: without something to seal it in, in a dry environment it can draw water from the underlying layers rather than from the air.

Is the effect of L'sodium hyaluronate permanent?

No, it's reversible and depends on consistent use: it hydrates and smooths the surface for as long as the product is applied. Volume achieved through injections is a matter of aesthetic medicine.

The selection of ingredients is curated by Elisa Avalle, founder of LeLang and a dermocosmetics specialist. Each formula is created and developed in LeLang laboratories.