Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance in your skin that acts like a sponge, soaking up water to keep your skin plump and bouncy.

Scientists turn a big, natural substance in your body called hyaluronic acid into smaller pieces using a special enzyme, and these smaller pieces seem to reduce inflammation better than the big or small versions you normally have.

When you swallow hyaluronic acid, only about 2% of it actually gets into your bloodstream, no matter how big or small the molecules are, because your gut breaks it down too much and doesn’t let much through.

When you inject a special type of hyaluronic acid with tiny particles into your skin, it can make your skin feel firmer and more hydrated—without making it look puffier—so it’s doing something more than just adding water.