Hyaluronic Acid - Beauty Wave of the Future?
By Jana Willinger

In our continuing search for the fountain of youth, there is a new weapon. Hyaluronic acid (HA), a key component of human tissue, aiding the body’s flexibility, mobility and moisture retention, is emerging as a key ingredient in many anti-aging beauty products and as a viable alternative to collagen and related substances in injection procedures. As we age, the Hyaluronic acid levels in our body decrease, contributing to the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and dryness in the skin. Hyaluronic acid beauty products and injections can decrease the appearance of lines and wrinkles by replenishing the body’s natural supply of Hyaluronic acid and/or by stimulating the body to rejuvenate its own supply of HA.

Among the exciting new developments in the world of Hyaluronic acid products is the recent FDA approval of Restylane and Hylaform, facial injections containing Hyaluronic acid. These injections can be administered quickly and with little chance of side effect. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more people than ever are choosing to forgo invasive plastic surgery for less painful, less time consuming procedures. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) predicts that in 2005, Hyaluronic acid (Restylane, Hylaform) will surpass collagen as the most popular soft tissue filler