Hyaluronic acid, also known as hyaluronan or hyaluronate, is a glycosaminoglycan — a long sugar polymer made up of repeating disaccharide units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. It is present throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in the skin (which holds around 50% of the body’s total hyaluronic acid), the synovial fluid of joints, the vitreous humour of the eye and the umbilical cord, where it plays an essential role in tissue hydration and joint lubrication.

Hyaluronic acid is used both in cosmetics (topical application) and as an oral supplement. In cosmetics, serums and creams containing hyaluronic acid work mainly at the skin’s surface, forming a hydrating, plumping film. Oral supplementation aims to provide hyaluronic acid from within, supporting levels in the dermis and synovial fluid. The two approaches are complementary and can be combined for an overall effect on skin hydration and elasticity.

In the joints, hyaluronic acid is a major component of synovial fluid, the viscous fluid that bathes the joint surfaces. It lubricates the joints, reducing friction between cartilage surfaces, and acts as a shock absorber during movement. With age and joint wear, the concentration and quality of hyaluronic acid in synovial fluid decline, which can contribute to joint discomfort — oral supplementation aims to support the quality of synovial fluid and everyday joint comfort.

Follow the dosage indicated on the Novoma product label. Take the capsules with a large glass of water, ideally with a meal. To help skin effects, it is recommended to maintain good overall hydration by drinking at least 1.5 litres of water a day. Effects from hyaluronic acid supplementation generally become noticeable after 4 to 8 weeks of regular use.

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of children.

Is oral hyaluronic acid actually absorbed?

Research has shown that orally administered hyaluronic acid is indeed absorbed by the gut and distributed to target tissues, notably the skin and joints. Studies using carbon-14-labelled hyaluronic acid have traced the molecule’s path through the body, confirming its distribution to hyaluronic-acid-rich tissues. The absorption rate depends on the molecule’s molecular weight, with lower molecular weight forms generally better absorbed.

Can hyaluronic acid be combined with collagen?

Yes — pairing hyaluronic acid with collagen is a very popular, complementary combination. Collagen provides structure and firmness to tissue, while hyaluronic acid brings hydration and volume; together they form key pillars of the extracellular matrix in skin and connective tissue. Our team at Herba Barona can advise on the best combinations.

From what age is hyaluronic acid supplementation relevant?

Natural hyaluronic acid production starts to decline from around age 25. Supplementation is generally recommended from age 30 to 35, when the first signs of skin dehydration and loss of firmness begin to appear. For joint comfort, supplementation can be relevant at any age depending on individual needs, particularly for athletes or people with a regular physical activity. Feel free to ask our team at Herba Barona for personalised advice.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.