Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found in the skin and other connective tissues. Its primary function in dermatology relates to its remarkable ability to retain moisture, promote wound healing, and support skin barrier integrity. In the context of dermatitis—including atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis—scientific evidence supports the topical use of hyaluronic acid as an adjunctive therapy.

Several clinical studies and reviews have evaluated the efficacy of hyaluronic acid in managing dermatitis symptoms. A 2011 randomized controlled trial published in the “Journal of Drugs in Dermatology” found that a 0.2% hyaluronic acid cream improved skin hydration, reduced erythema, and accelerated healing in patients with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. Another study (Papakonstantinou et al., 2012) highlighted HA’s anti-inflammatory properties, including its ability to modulate cytokine release, which can help soothe irritated skin.

HA is especially valued for its non-irritating, hypoallergenic profile, making it suitable for sensitive and compromised skin. While HA does not address the underlying immune dysregulation of dermatitis, its use as a supportive moisturizer can reduce transepidermal water loss and improve barrier function—key elements in managing dermatitis flares and preventing recurrence. However, most guidelines recommend HA as an adjunct, not a primary treatment, and more large-scale studies are needed to establish optimal concentrations and formulations.

In summary, there is moderate scientific validation (evidence rating 3/5) for the supportive use of topical hyaluronic acid in dermatitis, particularly for improving skin hydration and barrier function.

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