Topical RHA Technology Boosts Skin Rehydration, Rejuvenation

Crosslinked resilient Hyaluronic Acid (RHA™) bests non-crosslinked (linear) low and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid at increasing water content of the skin, maintaining skin integrity and improving skin barrier function, new research suggests.

The findings appear in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 

"It's the first study to reveal important differences between specific types of HA, and points to a key role for topical RHA in skin rehydration and rejuvenation," says lead study author Hema Sundaram, MD, a Washington, DC area dermatologist. She collaborated on the publication with Swiss-based TEOXANE Laboratories.

RHA was originally developed by TEOXANE as the primary component of their injectable dermal fillers line. TEOXANE is marketed by Alphaeon.

“Our latest research shows that crosslinking may also be beneficial in a topical HA formulation. If we effectively address the skin's fundamental hydration needs, it may tolerate and respond better to other topical treatments and cosmetic procedures," she says in a news release.

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of crosslinked RHA vs. linear, non-crosslinked low molecular weight (LMW) HA and high molecular weight (HMW) HA using human skin explant surfaces. In the study, researchers found that RHA was a more efficacious humectant than LMW HA and a more efficacious occlusive moisturizer than HMW HA. Furthermore, topical crosslinked RHA significantly improved the skin barrier structure and function by helping to better retain moisture in the skin, the study showed.