Hailed as “injectable moisturisers,” a new wave of hyaluronic acid fillers – including Profhilo – has created a group of advanced aesthetic treatments, commonly known as “skin enhancers,” that are growing in popularity among both women and men today. But, unlike typical dermal fillers, they are used for volume hydration, such as Dr Wassim Taktouka cosmetic doctor specializing in such treatments tells me.
“Injectable moisture treatments and dermal fillers are both made from hyaluronic acid,” he explains, referring to the water-binding molecule that can hold 10,000 times its weight in water. “It’s a natural component of human skin that as we age our body produces less and less,” he adds. “Hyaluronic acid is made up of long spaghetti-like chains, each of which attracts and holds water. In dermal fillers, the ‘spaghetti’ are slightly modified and cross-linked, as if ‘cooked’, so that they clump together and they stay in place. where it’s injected to create volume.” With injectable skin-boosting treatments, however, “the hyaluronic acid is less ‘cooked,’ so it spreads evenly across the face to draw water along the way.” This means that the substance hydrates the skin without giving volume to the face, preventing sagging and giving the skin a healthy, fresh texture.
Profhilo explained
As I experienced myself, with another cosmetic expert – Dr. Sophie Sotter, after numbing the skin with a topical cream, Profhilo involves about eight strategically placed injections given subcutaneously in the lower face. These can leave little bee sting-like swelling that can last up to 24 hours, with possible bruising (though I didn’t experience the latter). Reassuringly, there are no other negatives to Profhilo, which is why I was drawn to other injectable treatments such as wrinkle-relaxing toxins and traditional fillers.
Two sessions are required, about six weeks apart, and most people see the best results about three to four weeks after their second session, although I also noticed benefits after my first treatment. In my case these He made include a plumping of skin – nothing like I imagine normal fillers could do to enhance my contour, but nevertheless it gave a significantly fuller but firmer look – as well as a smoothing of the creepiness and a youthful “you look good” !” shine.
Results last about six months, although Dr. Shotter suggests having one session every three months for a “top-up,” rather than waiting six months for two. I can see how it could become addictive.
Profhilo and other skin enhancers compared
Along with Profhilo, which has become the biggest beauty buzz in injectables this decade, many cosmetic professionals are working with Volite from Juvéderm – the makers of Botox – which is similarly exclusively formulated with hyaluronic acid. Other products in the skin strengthening group, such as Teoxane Redensity 1, Belotero Revive and Sunekos Performa, contain additional skin-loving nutrients that promise to work on skin conditions.
Dr. Taktouk explains that “Volite has lower hyaluronic acid levels than Profhilo and Teoxane Redensity 1.” It contains no vitamins, minerals, antioxidants or amino acids and only “moderately hydrates the skin and improves fine lines.”
Profhilo, he adds, “is pure hyaluronic acid in high amounts and will bioreform collagen and elastin while hydrating the skin.” It’s “anti-aging” on multiple levels, but since it’s not generally used on the forehead (where people can find fine lines problematic) it won’t help hydrate the skin there. Profhilo Body, meanwhile, works to target sagging skin below the neck.
Then there’s Teoxane Redensity 1, which can be used all over the face as a full hydration treatment. “Teoxane Redensity 1 combines pure hyaluronic acid with three antioxidants, eight amino acids, two minerals and a vitamin; thus repairing the skin while hydrating it.” Think of it as a more powerful version of mesotherapy. Dr. Taktouk adds, “Teoxane Redensity 1 will not only hydrate the skin, but prevent premature skin aging, helping to refine the skin while giving a beautiful healthy glow.”
Other skin boosters that do more include Belotero Revive, which contains glycerin – another powerful humectant, and Sunekos Performa, which has an amino acid complex added. The latter is his favorite The Cosmetic Skin ClinicDr Johanna Ward who says ‘Sunekos Performa is great because it can be used on forehead lines, around the eyes to treat crow’s feet and on mouth lines, whereas Profhilo is not licensed in these areas”.
Polynucleotides are another class of injectable therapies that have similar benefits to Profhilo and its peers. “They’re similar in terms of results,” Dr. Ashwin Soni, plastic and reconstructive surgeon, tells us, “but instead of just providing hydration like hyaluronic acid skin enhancers, the polynucleotides communicate with cells to make them produce collagen and elastin”.
Polynucleotides (like Ameela) can also be used in areas that some skin enhancers can’t, such as the eyes, lips and forehead, and are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to tear filler, notes Dr. Soni.
How to decide which skin tightening treatment is right for you
“Typically, for people who want to improve skin health, hydration, skin protection and achieve a ‘wow’ glow I would direct Teoxane redn. 1,” says Dr. Taktuk. Belotero Revive claims similar benefits, as does Dr Sarah Tonks The Lovely Clinic says, it’s for “deep hydration of the skin, without creating unwanted volume”, giving the ultimate softening effect.
“Profhilo is excellent for those patients who are concerned about skin that has lost its elasticity – it softens fine lines and helps nourish the skin,” adds Dr. Taktouk. While those dealing with so-called crow’s feet and smoker’s lines can to want to investigate it Sunekos Performa. “In areas with complex requirements and limited other options – such as the forehead, around the eyes and on the upper lip – it’s perfect,” adds Dr Ward.
Dr. Taktouk believes Teoxane Redensity 1, Profhilo, Belotero Revive and Sunekos Performa are all excellent treatments, “so it’s best to consult your doctor who will help you decide between them.”
With any cosmetic procedures, it is imperative that you visit only highly trained, ethical injectors. Below, see Bazaar trusted list of the best professionals in London (and beyond) offering various skin enhancement treatments.
Dr Wassim Taktouk has a menu of skin enhancers in the elegant and subtle Taktuk ClinicKnightsbridge, where after consultation he and his team will choose the right treatment for you.
Dr. Sophie Sotterwhich is as well known for its aesthetic expertise as it is for being the voice of the industry, is offered by Profhilo Illuminate Skin Clinic in Kent and Harley Street, Londonwhich we highly recommend.
Dr. Ashwin Soni he is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon as well as an aesthetic doctor, which means his understanding of facial anatomy is second to none. Working mainly with Teoxane Redensity 1, you will find him The Soni Clinic at Knightsbridge and Ascot.
Dr. Alexis Granitiswho is a world-renowned specialist in medical and aesthetic dermatology, offers Profhilo, Volite and Belotero Revive in Skinesis Medical to Sarah ChapmanChelsea, and after consultation will decipher the best option for you.
Dr. Johanna Wardwho is also considered one of the safest pairs of hands in the London aesthetic scene, works with Profhilo and now Sunekos Performa in Cosmetic Skin Clinic in Marylebone and Stoke Poges (Buckinghamshire), where other skin enhancers are also offered, including Volite.
