Sodium Hyaluronate in Lipstick: Hydration Hero or Marketing Hype?

"Hyaluronic acid lipstick" sounds like a concentrated skincare product. But whether it truly "moisturizes" depends on a chemical fact: Sodium Hyaluronic Acid is generally water-soluble, while most traditional lipsticks are primarily composed of oils and waxes (which contain almost no water). Sodium hyaluronic acid only dissolves and functions optimally in the presence of water.

How Sodium Hyaluronic Acid Works

Sodium Hyaluronic Acid is a humectant—think of it as a "water magnet." On the skin, it helps lock in moisture, temporarily smoothing the skin and leaving it soft and hydrated. Today, Sodium Hyaluronic Acid is frequently found in the ingredient list of most facial or body care products that primarily focus on moisturizing.

Why is the Effect of Regular Sodium Hyaluronic Acid in Lipsticks Limited?

In common anhydrous (oil/wax) lipsticks, regular Sodium Hyaluronic Acid cannot be completely dissolved because it is water-soluble but not oil-soluble, thus limiting its moisturizing effect. The moisturizing effect of lipstick usually comes more from the lipstick base itself: oils and waxes form a sealing layer that slows down moisture loss. After using regular lipstick or lip gloss, you may see a temporary "plumping" effect, but this is usually short-lived and only superficial.   

The Principle of Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate

Focusfreda's Hyacharming® Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate product brochure introduces a low molecular weight sodium hyaluronate that, through a special process, is combined with plant oils and can be directly added to anhydrous / low-moisture formulations. This sodium hyaluronate mixture remains uniform and stable, does not easily settle, and does not produce a grainy feel. The brochure also directly states that Hyacharming® Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate contains "27%–33%" of low molecular weight sodium hyaluronate (in the ingredient mixture), making it easier to absorb, and recommends using 0.1%–1.0% in the final product (such as lipstick, lip gloss, pressed powder, BB cream, etc.).

The Role of Hyacharming® Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate in Lipsticks

• Locks in moisture, helping to alleviate dryness caused by oily ingredients.
• Absorbs small amounts of sweat or moisturizing spray, helping makeup last longer.
• Stabilizes wax/oil distribution, reducing "cracking" during storage.
• Improves smoothness, making solid products easier to apply and providing a smoother feel.

So—Is Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate a star ingredient or just hype?

The addition of Hyacharming® Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate makes it more likely to perform moisturizing functions in lipsticks. The added small-molecule sodium hyaluronate penetrates more easily than traditional large molecules. Typically, long-lasting "moisturization" mainly comes from occlusive oils/waxes in lipsticks, locking moisture in the lip surface. Sodium hyaluronate's role is to increase lip comfort and a smooth finish when sufficient moisture is available.

Limited Capacity in Advanced Production of Hyacharming® Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate

Today, you can find this type of Oil-dispersed Sodium Hyaluronate, specifically designed for oil-based makeup formulations, in the product lists of many sodium hyaluronate manufacturers. However, due to the specialized and high-end nature of its production process, ordinary manufacturers do not possess the relevant research and production capabilities. Therefore, if you want to add Hyacharming® oil-dispersed sodium hyaluronate to your formulation, it is essential to choose a high-end factory with an HA research laboratory. This is particularly important for a long-term, stable supply.

FAQ

Q: Will lipsticks containing sodium hyaluronate make lips "plump"?
It may temporarily smooth out dead skin on the lips, but it won't provide the significant plumping effect seen in some lip plumping products.

Q: Is sodium hyaluronate safe for lips?
Sodium hyaluronate is safe. It exists naturally in the human body, is widely used in personal care, and is generally low in irritation for most users.

Q: Does the molecular weight of lipstick matter?
Molecular weight does matter, but in anhydrous formulations, the matrix system is often more important than the molecular weight itself.

Q: Besides lipsticks, in which other products can Hyacharming® oil-dispersed sodium hyaluronate be added?
Lipsticks, lip balms, lip glosses, foundations, BB creams, and other makeup products.