3,6-Anhydro-L-galactose increases hyaluronic acid production via the EGFR and AMPKα signaling pathway in HaCaT keratinocytes

•L-AHG from red algae upregulates hyaluronan synthase in human keratinocytes.•L-AHG activates EGFR-mediated ERK, PI3K/Akt and STAT3 signaling pathways.•L-AHG activates AMPKα signaling pathway which regulate HAS2 expression.•L-AHG may serve as a cosmetic additive to moisturize skin and maintain hydration.