October 07, 2026

What's the Difference Between Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate?

Quick answer

Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form of hyaluronic acid. Both do the same job, drawing water into the skin's surface for a hydrated, plumper look. Most serums use sodium hyaluronate because it dissolves easily in water-based formulas, so seeing it on a label means the serum contains hyaluronic acid.

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The Short Version

	Hyaluronic acid	Sodium hyaluronate
What it is	The ingredient itself	Its salt form
What it does	Draws water to the skin's surface	The same
Where you'll see it	Marketing and product names	Usually the ingredient list

Why Labels Say Sodium Hyaluronate

Ingredient lists use standard technical names, so a product sold as a "hyaluronic acid serum" often lists sodium hyaluronate instead. It isn't a substitute or a cheaper version. It's the form that works well in a water-based serum.

Label tip: both names mean the same family of hydrating ingredient. Look for it near the top of the list. More on this in what to look for in an affordable hyaluronic acid serum.

What Both Do for Your Skin

Hydration

They attract and hold water at the skin's surface.

A smoother look

Well-hydrated skin looks plumper and softer.

A light feel

In a water-based serum, they add moisture without greasiness.

Easy layering

They sit well under moisturizer and sunscreen.

How to Use It

Apply to slightly damp skin after cleansing.

Use a few drops on your face and neck.

Follow with moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning.

Cosmedica's Hyaluronic Acid Serums

Cosmedica's hyaluronic acid serums pair sodium hyaluronate with vitamin B5 in a lightweight, water-based formula for everyday hydration, morning and night.

✓Sodium hyaluronate + vitamin B5✓Lightweight✓Morning and night

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is sodium hyaluronate the same as hyaluronic acid?

It's the salt form of hyaluronic acid. On a label, it means the product contains hyaluronic acid.

Is sodium hyaluronate a cheaper substitute?

No. It's the form most serums use because it dissolves well in water-based formulas.

Can I use sodium hyaluronate every day?

Yes. Serums with sodium hyaluronate are made for daily use, morning and night.

Should I look for both on the label?

No. Seeing either one near the top of the ingredient list is what matters.