Measuring the cross-linking rate of hyaluronic acid in the laboratory

The cross-linking process aims to modify the physical and chemical properties of hyaluronic acid, in particular to improve its stability, viscosity and shelf life in various medical and cosmetic applications.

The cross-linking rate of hyaluronic acid can be analysed for several reasons:

• Quality control: an optimal cross-linking rate guarantees the good performance of products containing hyaluronic acid (wrinkle-filling gel, orthopaedic treatments, etc.).
• Mechanical properties: the degree of cross-linking influences the rigidity and durability of the hyaluronic acid gel. The more it is cross-linked, the firmer the material.
• Effect and durability: in the field of injectable devices, a higher degree of cross-linking can extend the duration of action of the product, but can also reduce its elasticity.