Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most common type of dermal filler treatments, however there are also other fillers that are non-hyaluronic acid for specific indications, which are also much sought after. To name a few - Sculptra and Radiesse are extremely popular Hyaluronic acid alternatives which offer a more cost-effective volume in one treatment with added durability of effects which can last up to two years. Patients faced with the challenge of putting weight on usually opt for treatments such as Sculptra.
Hyaluronic Acid in the Body
The most fascinating thing about Hyaluronic acid is its natural occurrence in the human body. A dermal filler is designed to replenish lost hyaluronic acid, making it extremely biocompatible and biodegradable. The body accepts it and treats it in the same way as the HA you naturally produce.
Think of it as a scaffolding matrix for your skin, providing hydration and regeneration. 50% of the body’s HA is found in the skin layers and one third of the total HA in the body is metabolised and regenerated via daily metabolism.
Properties of HA fillers
With manufacturers of dermal fillers being able to vary their methods in how to produce different properties of long chain HA dermal fillers, patients can easily benefit from fillers with:
These differing properties determine the performance of the filler, however one thing they all have in common is the strong Hydrogen bonds between the long chains which allow them to exist as stable complexes. The natural bonds are an advantage to manufacturers who do not have to use any chemicals in the manufacturing process, which makes dermal fillers suitable for almost everyone.
At Filler World, we sell a number of well known Hyaluronic Acid filler brands such as Restylane, Belotero and Juvederm.
The world of Hyaluronic Acid fillers is a … one and not many individuals will stop to consider the life of a HA molecule. Once injected, the HA gel is subjected to regular stretching, compression and shearing from not only our muscle movements, but also gravity and outward compression, such as leaning the palm of your hands on your cheeks.
Understanding how fillers work, ensures practitioners choose the best type of HA filler for their patients.
Superficial versus Deeper Filling
It is also important for practitioners to understand the how physical properties of HA fillers are affected, depending on how deep they are injected. When injected in the superficial layers, fillers need to be able to spread through compact connective tissue, so that it can sit nice and smoothly in the superficial layers of the skin.
On the other hand, deep filling in the subnormal layers, HA fillers need to be able to give good volume in one specific spot without spreading sideways too easily.
Non-Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Let’s move onto Non-HA fillers.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid or PPLA in it’s shortest form is found in Sculptra and Lanluma. PLLA works in a unique way to stimulate the production of fibroblasts and collagen. Results last for up to 24 months and top up treatments are essential.
Radiesse is the only filler which contains Calcium Hydroxylapatite or CaHA. Used for medium wrinkles and nasolabial folds, it is also commonly used by women for smoothing out the wrinkles on the back of their hands. CaHA is a synthetic compound (a bit like teeth and bones!) and contains 30% calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres suspended in a 70% gel carrier.
Whilst most fillers (HA and non-HA) will stimulate collagen production, simple Collagen in its basic form can be derived from human donors, porcine and bovine origins. Popularly used for treating scars and correcting nasolabial folds. Ellanse is a popular collagen booster.
