Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (AcHA) Powder — Cosmetic Grade Supplier
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (AcHA, INCI: Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, CAS 158254-23-0) — the amphiphilic HA derivative with 23-29% acetyl content that binds to both water and skin lipids. Unlike standard HA which is 100% hydrophilic and washes away, AcHA’s acetyl groups act as molecular anchors gripping the stratum corneum lipid matrix — delivering 2× moisture retention, long-lasting adhesion even after water rinsing, and enhanced barrier repair. The lower MW (~20-100 kDa) enables deeper stratum corneum penetration while acetyl groups provide surface-level lipid adhesion — a dual-action delivery mechanism unique among HA derivatives. Non-sticky, refreshing sensory profile with DPPH antioxidant and anti-inflammatory (IL-1α inhibition) activity. COSMOS-certified, ISO 9001:2015, c-GMP, HALAL, KOSHER. Cosmetic-grade AcHA manufacturer and bulk supplier — UPOR Biotech.
Request a QuoteProduct Overview
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (AcHA, INCI: Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, CAS 158254-23-0) is a chemically modified hyaluronic acid derivative produced through controlled acetylation — the partial substitution of hydroxyl (-OH) groups on the HA disaccharide repeat unit (primarily at the C6 primary alcohol of N-acetyl-D-glucosamine and the C2/C3 secondary alcohols of D-glucuronic acid) with acetyl groups (CH₃CO-, introduced via acetic anhydride reaction under alkaline conditions). This transformation at 23-29% acetyl content (verified by titration and IR spectrophotometry — characteristic C=O stretch at ~1,730 cm⁻¹) creates a fundamentally new class of HA molecule: an amphiphilic polymer possessing both hydrophilic (water-loving, from the native HA carboxylate and remaining hydroxyl groups) and lipophilic (lipid-loving, from the introduced acetyl methyl groups) domains within the same polymer chain. This dual affinity is the molecular basis for AcHA’s unique performance advantages over standard sodium hyaluronate, which is purely hydrophilic and has zero affinity for skin lipids. The acetyl groups act as molecular anchors that partition into and bind to the intercellular lipid matrix of the stratum corneum (primarily ceramides, cholesterol, and free fatty acids organized in lamellar bilayers), keeping the entire HA molecule firmly attached to the skin surface even after water rinsing — a phenomenon not possible with unmodified HA which simply dissolves and washes away. This lipid-anchored adhesion mechanism, combined with the lower MW range (~20-100 kDa vs 1,500-2,000 kDa for cosmetic high-MW HA) enabling deeper penetration into the stratum corneum intercellular spaces, creates a dual-action delivery profile: surface-level lipid adhesion for sustained moisturization + intra-corneal penetration for deep hydration. Independent clinical studies demonstrate that AcHA delivers approximately 2× the moisture retention of standard sodium hyaluronate in the stratum corneum (corneometer measurements at 2/4/8 hours post-application), while also providing enhanced DPPH free radical scavenging activity (the acetyl groups contribute additional hydrogen-donating antioxidant capacity) and anti-inflammatory effects — significantly inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1α release from UV-irradiated keratinocytes compared to ordinary HA. The sensory profile is also transformed: the acetylation eliminates the characteristic tackiness of high-MW HA, producing a light, refreshing, silky after-feel that consumers strongly prefer in sensory panel testing. UPOR Biotech manufactures AcHA under c-GMP and ISO 9001:2015 with COSMOS natural certification.
As a specialized cosmetic-grade AcHA manufacturer and bulk supplier, UPOR Biotech provides this premium amphiphilic HA derivative for B2B cosmetic brands, contract manufacturers, and professional skincare lines worldwide. OEM formulations available. Free sample for qualified B2B buyers.
AcHA vs Standard Sodium Hyaluronate — What Makes It Different?
Standard sodium hyaluronate is 100% hydrophilic — it binds water brilliantly (up to 1,000× its weight) but has zero affinity for skin lipids, so it sits on the surface as a hydrated film and washes away with water. AcHA is amphiphilic — the acetyl groups (CH₃CO-, 23-29%) at the C6 position of GlcNAc are lipophilic “anchors” that partition into the stratum corneum intercellular lipid lamellae while the HA backbone does the water-binding via its carboxylate and remaining hydroxyl groups. Think of it as standard HA with built-in staying power: it hydrates like HA (2× better moisture retention due to reduced wash-off) but adheres like a lipid — persisting on the skin even after rinsing. The lower MW (~20-100 kDa) enables deeper intra-corneal penetration while acetyl groups provide surface lipid adhesion — dual-action delivery. The result: intense, long-lasting hydration with a silky, non-sticky finish, plus DPPH antioxidant and IL-1α anti-inflammatory benefits not found in unmodified HA.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (AcHA) Powder — Cosmetic Grade |
| INCI Name | Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate |
| Abbreviation | AcHA |
| CAS Number | 158254-23-0 |
| Chemical Description | Acetylated HA derivative — hydroxyl groups partially substituted with acetyl groups (CH₃CO-) at C6 of GlcNAc primarily; amphiphilic polymer with hydrophilic (HA backbone) and lipophilic (acetyl) domains |
| Key Advantage | Amphiphilic HA: 2× moisture retention vs standard HA. Lipid-anchored adhesion — persists after water rinsing. Enhanced barrier repair + DPPH antioxidant + IL-1α anti-inflammatory. Non-sticky silky feel. |
| Appearance | White to light yellowish powder or granules; free-flowing |
| Acetyl Content — Critical Quality Attribute | 23.0 – 29.0% (titration method; verified by IR — C=O stretch at ~1,730 cm⁻¹, C-O stretch at ~1,250 cm⁻¹) |
| Identification — IR Spectrophotometry | Characteristic acetyl C=O absorption at ~1,730 cm⁻¹ (ester carbonyl) and C-O at ~1,250 cm⁻¹; HA backbone polysaccharide bands at 3,400 cm⁻¹ (OH), 1,610 cm⁻¹ (COO⁻ asymmetric), 1,410 cm⁻¹ (COO⁻ symmetric) |
| Molecular Weight Range | ~20 – 100 kDa (low MW — enables deeper stratum corneum penetration vs high-MW HA surface-only) |
| Intrinsic Viscosity | 0.50 – 2.80 dL/g (lower than unmodified HA — contributes to non-sticky sensory) |
| pH (0.1% w/v Solution, 25°C) | 5.0 – 7.0 |
| Nitrogen Content | 2.0 – 3.0% (Kjeldahl method — reflects N-acetyl-D-glucosamine content) |
| Purity | ≥95% total AcHA (HPLC-UV at 205 nm) |
| Solubility | Freely soluble in water (dissolves at room temperature with gentle stirring — no heating required); soluble in alcohol-water mixtures up to ~50% ethanol; insoluble in pure ethanol/oil |
| Loss on Drying | ≤10.0% (105°C, 2h) |
| Residue on Ignition | 11.0 – 16.0% |
| Protein Content | ≤0.1% |
| Heavy Metals (Total) | ≤20 ppm (as Pb) |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤2 ppm |
| Microbial Limits | TAMC ≤100 CFU/g; TYMC ≤30 CFU/g (USP <61>); S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli — Negative (USP <62>) |
| Formulation Compatibility | Compatible with water phase; alcohol-water mixtures up to ~50%; pairs with all HA grades (high MW, oligo, crosspolymer); compatible with most cosmetic ingredients |
| Recommended Usage Rate | 0.01 – 0.1% w/w in leave-on formulations; 0.01 – 0.2% w/w in rinse-off products (effective at low concentration due to superior potency and skin affinity) |
| Grade | Cosmetic Grade |
| Certifications | ISO 9001:2015, c-GMP (ICH Q7), FDA Facility Registration, HALAL, KOSHER, COSMOS Natural Certified, USP/EP compliant |
| Packaging | 100 g / 1 kg / 5 kg / 25 kg sealed containers with desiccant |
| Storage | 2-8°C recommended; tightly sealed; protect from moisture (hygroscopic) and light |
| Shelf Life | 3 years under recommended storage; acetyl content and solubility re-verified at 3/6/12/24/36 months |
Key Benefits — Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
2× Moisture Retention vs Standard HA
The amphiphilic structure — hydrophilic HA backbone + lipophilic acetyl anchors (23-29%) — creates a lipid-anchored moisturizing film that resists wash-off. Corneometer data shows 2× water retention in stratum corneum vs standard HA at equivalent concentrations, sustained over 8 hours.
2× MoistureLong-Lasting Adhesion — Even After Water Rinsing
Acetyl groups partition into the stratum corneum intercellular lipid lamellae, acting as molecular anchors. Unlike standard HA which dissolves and washes away, AcHA persists on skin after rinsing — uniquely effective in cleansers, wash-off masks, and long-wear formulations.
Rinse-ResistantEnhanced Barrier Repair + Antioxidant + Anti-Inflammatory
Promotes epidermal cell proliferation, strengthens the SC barrier, significantly inhibits IL-1α (pro-inflammatory cytokine), and demonstrates superior DPPH free radical scavenging vs standard HA. Three active benefits beyond moisturization in a single ingredient.
Triple ActionNon-Sticky, Refreshing Sensory Profile
Acetylation eliminates the characteristic tackiness of high-MW HA. Lower intrinsic viscosity (0.50-2.80 dL/g) produces a light, silky, refreshing after-feel that consumers prefer. Delivers intense hydration without the sticky residue — ideal for premium serums and Asian-beauty formats.
Silky FeelApplications
High-Performance Serums and Essences — Long-Wear Hydration
Star active in premium serums at 0.05-0.1%. Lipid-anchored adhesion provides all-day hydration with refreshing, non-sticky finish. Pairs with high MW HA (film-forming) and oligo HA (deep signaling) for multi-layer systems.
Sheet Masks and Overnight Gel Masks — Sustained Delivery
Ideal for mask formats where sustained moisture delivery during wear time is critical. Acetyl anchors keep AcHA working on skin throughout the full masking period — no evaporation-driven activity loss.
Barrier Repair Creams — Compromised and Sensitive Skin
Core ingredient in barrier-strengthening moisturizers. The anti-inflammatory (IL-1α inhibition) + barrier repair + antioxidant triple action addresses compromised, sensitive, and post-procedure skin.
Rinse-Off Products — Cleansers and Body Wash
Uniquely effective in wash-off formats where standard HA provides zero residual benefit. AcHA’s lipid-anchored adhesion ensures moisturization persists even after rinsing — delivers on “moisturizing cleanser” claims.
Color Cosmetics — BB/CC Creams and Foundations
Used in base makeup for improved skin adhesion, long-wear comfort, and non-greasy hydration that does not compromise makeup longevity. Compatible with silicone and water-based formulations.
Toners, Mists, and After-Sun Care — Alcohol-Compatible
Soluble in alcohol-water mixtures up to ~50% ethanol — compatible with toner and mist formats. Ideal for after-sun repair where barrier restoration, cooling hydration, and antioxidant protection are needed.
Molecular Weight Comparison — HA Grades
| Grade | MW / Structure | Primary Function | Skin Penetration |
|---|---|---|---|
| High MW | 1,500-2,000 kDa | Film-forming, surface hydration | Surface only |
| Medium MW | 1,000-1,500 kDa | Moisturizing, thickening | Upper epidermis |
| Low MW | 400-1,000 kDa | Deep hydration, anti-wrinkle | Deeper epidermis |
| Extra Low MW | 100-400 kDa | Deep penetration, firming | Epidermis-dermis junction |
| AcHA (this product) | ~20-100 kDa + acetyl 23-29% | Amphiphilic, 2× moisture, rinse-resistant adhesion, barrier repair, antioxidant | SC lipid-anchored + intra-corneal |
| Oligo HA | 7-10 kDa | Cellular signaling, wound healing | Deep dermis |
| Zinc Hyaluronate | 10-50 kDa + Zn 5-8% | Anti-acne, sebum regulation, wound healing | Epidermis-Dermis |
Frequently Asked Questions
Sodium acetylated hyaluronate (AcHA) is a chemically modified HA derivative where hydroxyl groups on the HA backbone are partially substituted with acetyl groups (CH₃CO-, 23-29%). This creates an amphiphilic molecule — fundamentally different from regular HA which is purely hydrophilic. The acetyl groups act as molecular anchors that partition into the stratum corneum intercellular lipid lamellae, keeping AcHA attached even after water rinsing. This delivers 2× moisture retention (corneometer data), non-sticky feel, enhanced barrier repair, DPPH antioxidant activity, and IL-1α anti-inflammatory effects — all benefits not found in unmodified HA.
Acetylation introduces acetyl groups (CH₃CO-) at HA hydroxyl sites (primarily C6 of GlcNAc). This matters in three ways: (1) Amphiphilic character — binds to both water (HA backbone) and skin lipids (acetyl anchors). (2) Long-lasting anchor effect — acetyl groups grip SC lipid lamellae, persisting after rinsing. (3) Enhanced penetration + surface retention — lower MW (~20-100 kDa) enables deeper intra-corneal penetration while acetyl groups provide surface lipid adhesion. Typical acetyl content: 23.0-29.0%, verified by IR (C=O at ~1,730 cm⁻¹).
Premium serums and essences (0.05-0.1%), sheet masks and overnight masks, barrier repair creams, and uniquely — rinse-off products (cleansers, body wash at 0.01-0.2%) where standard HA provides zero residual benefit. Usage rate is significantly lower than standard HA (0.1-1.0%) due to superior potency and skin affinity. Dissolves in water at room temperature; compatible with alcohol-water up to ~50% for toner/mist formats. Non-sticky, refreshing finish.
Yes, strongly recommended. Premium multi-layer blend: 0.05% AcHA (lipid adhesion + 2× moisture + antioxidant), 0.1-0.3% high MW HA (surface film-forming), 0.05-0.1% oligo HA (deep dermal signaling). Also compatible with crosspolymer HA for 24+ hour multi-mechanism hydration with anti-pollution film barrier. All grades co-dissolve in water phase.
ISO 9001:2015, c-GMP (ICH Q7), FDA-registered, HALAL, KOSHER, COSMOS Natural Certified. Meets USP and EP standards. Every shipment: COA (acetyl content 23.0-29.0% by titration, IR spectrum with C=O at ~1,730 cm⁻¹, intrinsic viscosity, purity), MSDS, TSE/BSE statement (fermentation-derived), stability data, complete lot traceability.