Humectant

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

Cross-linked hyaluronic acid — the next level of hydration. The molecules of HA are chemically linked in a three-dimensional network that remains on the surface and retains water longer than regular HA. Prolonged hydration effect up to 72 hours.

cross-linked HAprolonged effectfilm-formingCROSS-HA

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer is obtained by chemically cross-linking hyaluronic acid chains using BDDE (1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether) or DVS (divinyl sulfone) — the same agents used for injectable fillers. Unlike regular HA (soluble, quickly washed out), the crosspolymer forms a gel-like matrix on the skin's surface. INCI: Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer. Trade name: CROSS-HA® (Shiseido), HyaCross™. High molecular weight → remains on the surface.

Moisturizing serums, essences, and masks with an emphasis on prolonged effect. Especially effective in combination with regular HA for multi-depth hydration.

Key Benefits

✦

Prolonged hydration effect — up to 72 hours

The three-dimensional gel network on the skin's surface acts as a moisture reservoir: attracting water from the atmosphere and retaining it much longer than linear HA. Shiseido research (CROSS-HA): skin hydration 24 hours after washing off the product is 2.5 times higher compared to regular HA. The prolonged effect is critically important for dry and atopic skin.

◈

Film-forming and barrier protection

The crosspolymer forms an elastic film on the surface of the stratum corneum, reducing TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and protecting against aggressive external environments. The effect is similar to occlusives, but without a greasy feel. Especially valuable in winter and low-humidity conditions.

✧

Synergy with regular HA — three-layer effect

Crosspolymer (surface) + Mid-weight HA (stratum corneum) + Low-weight HA (deeper penetration) = three-tiered hydration system. Most premium formulas combine all three. The crosspolymer is the "top layer" of this system — sealing and prolonging the action of the lower layers.

Suitable for

dry skindehydrated skinatopic skinall skin types

Main Actions

✓ prolonged hydration effect✓ film-forming / reducing TEWL✓ barrier restoration

HA Crosspolymer vs Regular HA

Sodium Hyaluronate (regular) — soluble, varying MW, penetrates or remains on the surface depending on MW. Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer — always remains on the surface due to the size of the network. For maximum hydration: crosspolymer as a "cap" + regular HA for hydrating layers below. As in Shiseido Ultimune and many K-beauty essences.

CategoryHumectants

Check if this ingredient works for your skin — analyze your full product formula for free.

Analyze your product