Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance that naturally occurs in your body, including your skin and joint fluid. HA can also be used as a skin care ingredient. In this case, it’s usually sourced from animal tissues or bacterial fermentation. When applied topically, it has a moisturizing and soothing effect. Sodium hyaluronate is an ingredient that’s extracted from HA. It’s the sodium salt form of HA. Other names include: hyaluronate sodium hyaluronic acid sodium hyaluronic acid sodium salt hyalurone sodium Like HA, sodium hyaluronate can help your skin look youthful and supple. It also has benefits for joint and eye health. Sodium hyaluronate is different from HA, though. Read on to learn how it compares to HA, along with its benefits and uses.