VitaMedica's HA+A¿ Hydrating Nutraceutical is designed for all skin types and provides significant dermal hydration and antioxidant protection. HA+A features hyaluronic acid, one of the skin's most important components for hydration and moisture-retention. HA+A also includes many of the most powerful dermal antioxidants to provide protection from free-radical damage. Two factors that are crucial to maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin include dermal hydration and antioxidant protection. Damage caused by the sun's rays, along with environmental pollution contributes to the development of free-radicals. Although our bodies and skin have multiple intrinsic mechanisms to defend against free-radical damage, this process becomes less efficient as we age. Clinical studies indicate that free-radicals contribute to age-related illnesses and to the aging process itself. Antioxidants can play a vital role by helping to reduce, neutralize and eliminate the production of free-radicals. The nature of HA's molecular structure makes it ideal for attracting and holding water. Nearly 50% of the body's HA is found in the dermis, in the spaces between cells (extracellular matrix). HA along with dermatan sulfate, serves to maintain the water balance in the dermis and adds support for other dermal elements like collagen and elastin. Normally, HA also becomes highly concentrated at sites of injury (e.g. trauma or surgery) to enhance the ability of healing cells to reach an injured area. As we age, our ability to produce sufficient levels of HA diminishes and as a result, the skin becomes drier and more vulnerable to damage.