We analyzed 9 products according to 6 criteria and selected the following supplements:
# Best hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic Acid – Nutri&Co 🥇
# Best value for money: Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C – Novoma
# Best entry-level: Hyaluronic Acid – Nutrimea
Best hyaluronic acid in capsules
Our selection criteria
- Quantity of hyaluronic acid: the amount of hyaluronic acid contained in a daily dose recommended by the brand.
- Other active ingredients: other ingredients contained in the supplement, also dedicated to skin beauty.
- Molecular weight: this data determines the body’s ability to assimilate the supplement. We favor a broad-spectrum molecular weight (molecules of different sizes).
- Price / day: the price for 1 day of treatment with the daily recommended dose by the brand.
- Customer reviews: this average of customer reviews on the brand comes from the laboratory’s site, review platforms, or marketplaces like Amazon.
- Our opinion on the brand: following the tests of dietary supplement brands that we conduct each month and the analysis of 6 criteria such as transparency and expertise.
All the supplements selected below are made in France, and do not contain any excipients or additives.
# Best hyaluronic acid 🥇
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Darwin Nutrition®
Brand: Nutri&Co
Quantity of hyaluronic acid: 180 mg
Molecular weight: broad spectrum
Other active ingredients: evening primrose oil, borage oil
Price / day: 1€
Customer reviews: 4.8/5 (ekomi.fr)
Nutri&Co offers a high-quality hyaluronic acid supplement. It is well-dosed in active ingredient, and its broad-spectrum molecular weight (between 50 KDa and 3000 KDa) allows for optimal assimilation by the body.
The “DuoCap®” capsules (liquid + powder) also contain evening primrose oil and borage oil. These natural actives are renowned for skincare, thanks to the gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) they contain.
The effectiveness of this hyaluronic acid molecule (ExceptionHYAL® Star) on skin beauty has been clinically demonstrated and approved by 60 subjects of the study from 4 weeks.
We like the Nutri&Co brand because it is reliable and transparent (our full test here). In addition, customer reviews are very good.
This brand is based in Aix en Provence and places particular importance on the quality of the active ingredients in its products.
Use the promo code DARWINGIFT to receive a free surprise product (minimum purchase of 70€).
Best value for money
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Darwin Nutrition®
Brand: Novoma
Quantity of hyaluronic acid: 200 mg
Molecular weight: broad spectrum
Other active ingredients: vitamin C
Price / day: 0.80€
Customer reviews: 4.7/5 (truspilot.com)
Novoma offers a good quality hyaluronic acid supplement, at a more attractive price.
The two capsules provide 200 mg of active ingredient per day (ExceptionHYAL® Star, the same as Nutri&Co), as well as 100 mg of vitamin C, which contributes to normal collagen formation and protection of cells against oxidative stress.
Novoma is a quality French brand offering supplements concentrated in active ingredients, at controlled prices (read our full test here). The certificates of analysis for their supplements are available on the laboratory’s website.
Use the promo code DARWIN-5 to get 5€ off your order (no minimum purchase).
Best entry-level
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Darwin Nutrition®
Brand : Nutrimea
Amount of Hyaluronic Acid : 135 mg
Molecular weight : high
Other active ingredients : collagen, vit. A, vit. C, selenium
Price / day : €0.66
Customer reviews: 4.7/5 (Avis-verifies.com)
The hyaluronic acid offered by Nutrimea is a more affordable alternative. The amount of hyaluronic acid is lower than elsewhere but remains adequate.
The capsules also contain collagen (in small quantities), vitamin A, vitamin C, and selenium.
Nutrimea is a quality French brand offering supplements concentrated in active ingredients at controlled prices. (our test here). Its product range is particularly large.
Use the promo code DARWIN10 to get 10% off (no minimum purchase required).
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a molecule naturally present in the body. It is synthesized by various cells, particularly by mesenchymal cells, which can produce and regenerate tissues such as bones, muscles, and cartilage.
It is found in all tissues and fluids of the body: synovial fluid (at the joints), skeletal tissues, cardiac tissues, and also in the eyes.
However, it is predominantly present in skin tissues. Along with collagen, it is one of the main components of the dermis and cartilage.
It is a macromolecule called “glycosaminoglycan” that acts by binding to other molecules to form an elastic, dense, and viscous gel.
Hyaluronic acid ensures the bonding, support, and protection of tissues. Capable of retaining water, it maintains hydration within the dermis.
It plumps the skin, giving it firmness and elasticity. This is why it is a key molecule in dermocosmetic. It is often associated with collagen and elastin.
Hyaluronic acid also plays a major role in joint health. Thanks to its gelatinous texture, it acts as a lubricant for the joints.
It also helps reduce the pain associated with joint issues such as osteoarthritis.
Unfortunately, its production gradually decreases with age. Free radicals, particularly UV rays, also degrade hyaluronic acid molecules.
An oral supplement can be effective in compensating for this loss.
What are its benefits?
Anti-aging and moisturizing
Premature skin aging mainly occurs due to repeated exposure to UV rays. This photoaging induces a reduction in hyaluronic acid production.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the most abundant in the skin, accounting for 50% of the total body HA.
It works synergistically with collagen to slow down skin aging. It exerts an anti-aging action and contributes to the elasticity and firmness of the skin.
Moreover, it is involved in skin hydration. As shown in this study, oral intake of hyaluronic acid for 6 weeks improved hydration and water retention within the tissues.
It thus reduces skin dryness, plumps the epidermis and reduces the appearance of wrinkles (volume, surface, and depth).
After 12 weeks of daily ingestion of 120 mg of hyaluronic acid, another trial conducted on 40 men and women aged 35 to 64 concluded significant improvements in skin condition in terms of wrinkles and elasticity, compared to the placebo group (which did not ingest hyaluronic acid).
Orally and through topical application, it is the subject of numerous research studies on skin rejuvenation.
Healing
Hyaluronic acid is a major component of the healing process, particularly during the initial stages, as noted in this article. It contributes to cell renewal and reduces inflammation at a wound site.
The application of a local hyaluronic acid gel on a skin lesion promoted hydration and healing in a study on an animal model. The gel’s air permeability was superior to a dressing, allowing the skin to breathe and prevent maceration.
This healing ability is also used in inflammatory bowel diseases.
Ingested hyaluronic acid shows promising effects on intestinal mucosal inflammation during an ulcerative colitis flare.
Supports Joint Health
It is essential for joint health and well-being.
Indeed, it is a component of synovial fluid. The latter helps lubricate the knee, ankle, wrist, and hip joints.
It limits bone friction, absorbs shocks, and protects cartilage from wear by blocking an enzyme (called MMP-3) that plays a critical role in cartilage destruction.
Additionally, hyaluronic acid helps relieve pain caused by joint disorders or cartilage degeneration.
During this study, the intake of hyaluronic acid combined with quadriceps strengthening exercises improved knee osteoarthritis symptoms.
Fights Dry Eyes
Thanks to its chemical structure, hyaluronic acid is capable of attracting many times its weight in water. It lubricates the eye surface and moisturizes the eyes, promoting hydration.
Its healing ability shows significant interest in ocular healing after eye surgery, as indicated by this study review.
Where to Buy Hyaluronic Acid Capsules?
- Pharmacies and drugstores
- Organic stores
- Specialized stores (sports nutrition, dietary supplements, etc.)
- Specialized e-commerce
Criteria for Choosing Hyaluronic Acid Capsules
1. Hyaluronic Acid Concentration
For real effectiveness, each capsule must be sufficiently rich in active ingredients. We recommend a concentration of 200 mg per day.
This content can be less significant if hyaluronic acid is combined with other active ingredients like collagen or vitamins. In this case, concentrations are distributed among each active ingredient.
2. Origin
This acid has long been extracted from rooster combs. It is considered a novel ingredient, and authorized for addition to food products (notably dairy products) for its beneficial effect on joint health.
Indeed, it contains 60 to 80% sodium hyaluronate, 20% proteins (including collagen), and other minerals (sodium, calcium, etc.)
This unique composition is responsible for the viscous texture obtained.
Nowadays, hyaluronic acid, particularly in the cosmetics field, is primarily obtained through bacterial fermentation.
I recommend this second option. This biotechnological technique allows the synthesis of hyaluronic acid filaments. Cultivated on a plant base (wheat or beet), hyaluronic acid is synthesized by bacteria: Streptococcus, gradually replaced by the strain Bacillus subtilis.
According to some labs, this bacterial strain would reduce the risk of contamination by impurities.
3. Molecular Weight
Hyaluronic acid can have a molecular weight (or size) between 50 and 2000 kiloDalton (kDa). This weight defines its assimilation by the body and its ability to penetrate through the skin.
A low molecular weight (e.g., 50 kDa) penetrates more deeply and acts at the cellular level, but it is quickly eliminated by the body.
Low molecular weight molecules also participate in the internal production of hyaluronic acid. It is recommended for external use and anti-aging treatments (creams, serums…).
A high molecular weight formula (e.g., 2000 kDa) is less readily assimilated by the body but provides structure to the extracellular matrix, playing a fundamental role in supporting and firming the skin.
High molecular weights also play a role in the lubrication of joint tissues.
For oral supplementation, a broad-spectrum molecular weight is preferred. The capsules then contain molecules of different sizes for optimal absorption and action at all levels.
4. Composition of Hyaluronic Acid Capsules
Check the composition, which should be as natural as possible. Avoid those containing excipients, preservatives, or GMOs.
Also, prefer capsules with a vegetable coating.
Due to its production process, hyaluronic acid cannot be certified organic.
5. Form
Hyaluronic acid is available in topical treatments in the cosmetics field, and orally as dietary supplements.
Thus, hyaluronic acid is found in serums and creams with anti-wrinkle and moisturizing indications.
Capsule or tablet forms are offered for a deeper action: maintaining the tissue hydration rate, contributing to collagen production, slowing skin aging.
Hyaluronic acid injections are used in aesthetic dermatology as fillers in the treatment of facial wrinkles. They are also indicated in rheumatology for joint support, particularly for the knees (after medical advice).
6. Price
The price of hyaluronic acid capsules varies depending on the brand, active ingredient concentration, or the manufacturing process.
Generally, expect to pay between €20 and €30 for 60 capsules.
To Summarize
To be sure of choosing quality hyaluronic acid capsules, check:
- Concentration in hyaluronic acid: it should be at least 200 mg/capsule.
- Origin: prefer bacterial fermentation.
- Molecular weight: opt for a broad-spectrum molecular weight.
- Composition: it should be natural, without excipients or preservatives.
- Form: in capsules for an overall effect, in cosmetic treatments for a local plumping effect.
- Price: it varies from €20 to €30 for 60 capsules.
Hyaluronic acid taken systemically is contraindicated for pregnant and breastfeeding women, and for patients with liver or kidney diseases.
Best Hyaluronic Acid
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Darwin Nutrition®
Brand: Nutri&Co
Quantity of hyaluronic acid: 180 mg
Molecular weight: broad spectrum
Other active ingredients: evening primrose oil, borage oil
Price / day: 1€
Customer reviews: 4.8/5 (ekomi.fr)
Best value for money
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Darwin Nutrition®
Brand: Novoma
Quantity of hyaluronic acid: 200 mg
Molecular weight: broad spectrum
Other active ingredients: vitamin C
Price / day: 0.80€
Customer reviews: 4.7/5 (truspilot.com)
Best entry-level
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Darwin Nutrition®
Brand : Nutrimea
Amount of Hyaluronic Acid : 135 mg
Molecular weight : high
Other active ingredients : collagen, vit. A, vit. C, selenium
Price / day : €0.66
Customer reviews: 4.7/5 (Avis-verifies.com)
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