The company says the formulation is ideal for a broad spectrum of creams, lotions, cosmetic water, essence, facial cleansing milk, bath and shower products, an agent for shampoo and conditioners, mousses and lipsticks.
HA is a mucopolysacharide that exists naturally in all living organisms. In humans it is found in larger concentrations in the articular joints, eye fluid and, most abundantly, in the skin. As the protein can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water it is known to play a vital part in the ageing process once levels are depleted in the skin.
Maintaining levels of HA, whether it be through supplements, topical applications or injections, is said to reduce wrinkles caused by dehydration and general ageing.
Specific to skin care formulations, the company claims that cosmetic grade HA is considered to be one of the best natural moisturizing components available, which also helps to give it high compatability.
This is because, when applied to the skin, HA can form an air permeable thin layer and keep the skin smooth and moist, with the added functionality of protecting from bacteria, dust and ultraviolet rays.
HA's water solution has outstanding moisture retention capacity and very high viscosity and lubricity. Because it can be added without dissolving, it is said to be easy and convenient for fomulators to use.
Its multi-functionality should make it ideal for anti-aging formulations, where the combination of UV protection alongside moisturizing properties should make it a particularly useful ingredient as part of a formulation.
"The primary force behind cosmetic grade HA is market demand, first prompted by FDA approval of injectible HA, and later, when an ABC television special featured the residents of a Japanese village who were living remarkarbly long lives," a company spokesperson told CosmeticsDesign.com.
"After studying these residents, it was discovered that their diets stimulated and supplied high quantities of HA in their bodies," the spokesperson added.
The company says it is expecting to supply a variety of cosmetics manufacturers, including medium-sized specialty dermatology businesses and specialty skin care makers, together with many of the main beauty mass marketers.
The cosmetic grade is also said to be very affordable. For example, 1 oz of PureHA Serum ranges from $24.95 to $49.95 retail. The manufacturer claims that cosmetic grade HA should have tremendous potential as it continues to gain credibility based on clinical studies.
Collagen Nutraceuticals is simultaneously launching a medical grade HA which can be used as a viscoelasticity agent in artificial crystal planting in ocular surgery, as a filling agent in osteoarthritis and as an agent in eye drops. It is also said to have good action towards adhesion prevention in surgical operations and for healing cuts on the skin.
Previously the company has pioneered food grade HA, which it has now been manufacturing for more than 20 years. During this time HA has become a common ingredient in the nutraceutical industry as a means of replacing a variety of deficiencies in the human body.