Sodium Hyaluronate
Also known as: Sodium Hyaluronate, HA salt
What It Is
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, with a smaller molecular size that allows it to penetrate skin more deeply than standard HA.
What It Does
Attracts moisture at multiple skin depths, helping to hydrate both the surface and deeper layers of the skin.
Best For
Benefits
- Smaller molecules than standard HA — can penetrate deeper into the epidermis
- Long-lasting hydration
- Non-irritating and well tolerated by all skin types
- Often found alongside other HA molecular weights for multi-depth hydration
When to Be Careful
- Same caveat as HA — seal with a moisturizer in dry environments for best results
Sodium hyaluronate started appearing explicitly on ingredient lists as brands leaned into the transparency trend. The scientific language signals ingredient sophistication to skincare enthusiasts.
Neither sodium hyaluronate nor hyaluronic acid is objectively superior. Products that include multiple molecular sizes of HA provide more comprehensive hydration from surface to deeper skin layers.
Same as hyaluronic acid — after cleansing, before moisturizer, on damp skin.
All skin types. Pairs well with every other ingredient category.
No real concerns — one of the most well-tolerated skincare ingredients available.
Not applicable.