Written by the Plenthera team (orthomolecularly trained). Scientifically reviewed in September 2026. Last updated: 23 September 2026.
Hyaluronic acid is the natural 'water-retaining' molecule of skin and joints: one molecule can bind many times its own weight in water. The body's own production declines with age. At Plenthera you will find hyaluronic acid in combination with collagen: as a capsule with BioCell Collagen® from Doctor's Best, in the collagen drink Active Collageen from Vital Proteins (with vitamin C) and naturally in bone broth collagen powder.
Which form of hyaluronic acid suits you?
An overview of the common forms of hyaluronic acid on the market. At Plenthera we currently stock the combination formulas and bone broth.
| Form | Application | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| HA + type II collagen + chondroitin (at Plenthera) | Capsules, oral | Those who want skin and joints in one formula |
| Collagen drink with HA and vitamin C (at Plenthera) | Powder, oral | Daily beauty drink |
| Bone broth collagen powder (at Plenthera) | Powder, food | Wholefood approach, HA naturally present |
| Stand-alone HA capsules or powder | Oral | Targeted HA dosing |
| Serum (high molecular weight) | Topical | Cosmetic skin hydration |
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan — a long chain of sugar units — that occurs naturally in skin, synovial fluid, the fluid of the eye and connective tissue. It binds water, giving tissues volume, elasticity and moisture balance.
Hyaluronic acid binds water like few other natural substances. Around half of the hyaluronic acid in the body is in the skin, where it keeps the space between cells filled and supple. In joints, it is a main component of synovial fluid, which provides gliding and shock absorption.
As we get older, the body's own production declines. That is why hyaluronic acid is popular in two niches at once: beauty (skin) and joints. In supplements it is often combined with collagen and chondroitin, two other building blocks of connective tissue. Also take a look at our collagen category and vitamin C category.
What does the science say about hyaluronic acid?
Most clinical research into oral hyaluronic acid comes from Japan, where HA supplements have been common for decades. Studies with 120 to 240 mg of low molecular weight HA per day for 8 to 12 weeks look at skin moisture, wrinkles and joint comfort in adults. The results are predominantly positive, but the studies are often small and largely industry-funded.
BioCell Collagen® — a hydrolysed cartilage extract with type II collagen, chondroitin sulphate and hyaluronic acid — has also been researched in small studies in connection with skin ageing and joint comfort.
An officially authorised health claim does apply to vitamin C, which is in Active Collageen from Vital Proteins (50 mg per serving): 'Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.'
Hyaluronic acid as a food supplement is something different from hyaluronic acid injections into joints or the skin — those are medical procedures.
Molecular weight — why it matters
High molecular weight HA (>1,000 kDa): the classic form in cosmetics. Too large to penetrate deep into the skin — works mainly as a hydrating layer on the skin.
Medium molecular weight HA (500–1,000 kDa): a mixed profile, used in some oral formulas and serums.
Low molecular weight HA (<500 kDa): the form used in most oral studies. In the gastrointestinal tract, HA is broken down further into smaller fragments.
Oligo-HA (<10 kDa): a highly fragmented form, a niche market.
Hyaluronic acid at Plenthera and other forms on the market
Doctor's Best Hyaluronic Acid & BioCell Collagen® — at Plenthera
Two capsules provide 1,000 mg of BioCell Collagen® from chicken sternal cartilage, with 600 mg of hydrolysed type II collagen, 200 mg of chondroitin sulphate and 100 mg of hyaluronic acid. 180 capsules, 90 daily doses. Not vegan.
Vital Proteins Active Collageen Citroen — at Plenthera
A collagen drink with, per serving (17 g), 10 g of collagen peptides, 33 mg of hyaluronic acid and 50 mg of vitamin C, supplemented with zinc, magnesium, calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin and vitamin B6. Around 21 servings per tub.
Bone broth collagen powder — at Plenthera
The bone broth collagen powder from Big Food (Bio and Classic, 300 g and value pack 4×300 g) and from Plent Beauty (Classic Naturel, Classic Chocolade and Bio Naturel) is made from beef bone broth. It naturally contains collagen and a small, non-standardised amount of hyaluronic acid.
Other forms on the market
Stand-alone low molecular weight HA capsules or HA powder, vegan hyaluronic acid via bacterial fermentation and topical serums with high molecular weight HA. We do not currently stock these.
How do you use hyaluronic acid?
- Decide on your goal: skin, joints or a broad connective tissue approach.
- Follow the dosage on the label: for Doctor's Best 2 capsules per day, for Active Collageen one 17 g serving.
- Take it with a meal or at a fixed time of day — the timing is flexible.
- For those who combine hyaluronic acid with vitamin C: vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.
- Allow at least 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use before assessing the result.
- Drink enough water.
- For the skin surface: choose a serum with high molecular weight HA and apply it to damp skin.
Myths and misconceptions about hyaluronic acid
Myth 1: 'Hyaluronic acid in a cream penetrates deep into the skin.'
Incorrect for high molecular weight HA — it is too large to penetrate the skin barrier. It works as a hydrating layer on the skin.
Myth 2: 'Hyaluronic acid is a fat.'
Incorrect. HA is water-soluble and actually binds water. That is where its hydrating properties come from.
Myth 3: 'The more hyaluronic acid, the faster the result.'
Studies usually use 120 to 240 mg per day. No additional benefit has been demonstrated for higher doses.
Myth 4: 'Hyaluronic acid from an animal source is better than fermentation HA.'
The molecule is the same. The difference lies in the source, the purification and the molecular weight — and in whether the product is vegan.
Combining hyaluronic acid with other supplements
Popular combinations:
- Collagen: a classic connective tissue combination.
- Vitamin C: contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.
- Zinc: contributes to the maintenance of normal skin.
- Biotin: contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and normal skin.
- Glucosamine + MSM: for those who focus on joints.
- Bone broth: naturally provides collagen and glycosaminoglycans.
- Omega 3: often part of a beauty stack.
Frequently asked questions
What is hyaluronic acid?
A glycosaminoglycan that occurs naturally in skin, joints, the fluid of the eye and connective tissue, and binds a lot of water.
What is the difference between low and high molecular weight?
Low molecular weight HA (<500 kDa) is used in oral studies. High molecular weight HA (>1,000 kDa) is found in cosmetics for the skin surface.
Does oral hyaluronic acid really work?
Mainly Japanese studies look at skin moisture, wrinkles and joint comfort with oral use (120–240 mg per day, 8–12 weeks). The studies are mostly small.
How much hyaluronic acid per day?
In studies usually 120–240 mg. Follow the dosage on the label: Doctor's Best provides 100 mg per 2 capsules, Active Collageen 33 mg per serving.
When should you take hyaluronic acid?
The timing is flexible — with a meal or at a fixed time of day.
What will I notice from hyaluronic acid for the skin?
Research mainly looks at skin moisture and wrinkle depth. Do not expect quick effects; allow 8 to 12 weeks.
And for the joints?
HA is a main component of synovial fluid. Studies on joint comfort with oral use are promising, but small.
Is hyaluronic acid vegan?
It can be made vegan through fermentation, but the products in this collection are not vegan: BioCell Collagen® comes from chicken cartilage, and collagen and bone broth are animal-derived.
Can you combine hyaluronic acid with collagen?
Yes, that is a classic combination and is already combined in all the products in this collection.
Does hyaluronic acid have side effects?
Generally well tolerated. With BioCell Collagen®, be aware of a possible allergy to chicken or egg, and if you use blood thinners, consult your doctor because of the chondroitin.
Sources
- Oe M. et al., "Oral hyaluronan relieves knee pain: a review", Nutr J (2016).
- Kawada C. et al., "Ingested hyaluronan moisturizes dry skin", Nutr J (2014).
- Oe M. et al., "Oral hyaluronan relieves wrinkles: a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study over a 12-week period", Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol (2017).
- Schauss AG. et al., "Effect of the novel low molecular weight hydrolyzed chicken sternal cartilage extract, BioCell Collagen, on improving osteoarthritis-related symptoms", J Agric Food Chem (2012).
- Salwowska NM. et al., "Physiochemical properties and application of hyaluronic acid", J Cosmet Dermatol (2016).
- Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — vitamin C claims.
Disclaimer: This text is for information purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Hyaluronic acid is a food supplement, not a medicine. If in doubt or if you take medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.