What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid (HA), also known as hyaluronan, possesses excellent moisturizing properties and provides support for the skin, bones, joints, and ligaments. Hyaluronic acid has strong hydrophilic properties and, in the dermis, helps maintain skin hydration and elasticity. It improves dryness, smoothens fine lines, and fills in skin depressions, making the skin and overall facial contours more plump, full, and youthful.
Three Main Types of Hyaluronic Acid
High-Molecular-Weight Hyaluronic Acid:
With a molecular weight exceeding one million, it can capture a significant amount of moisture and provides the strongest support. It is best suited for extensive facial sculpting, such as nose augmentation, chin enhancement, and contour improvements.
Medium-Molecular-Weight Hyaluronic Acid:
With a molecular weight of approximately 50,000 to 100,000, it addresses dryness in aging skin and rejuvenates when injected into the dermis. It is suitable for filling concave areas like nasolabial folds, apple cheeks, cheeks, and marionette lines.
Low-Molecular-Weight Hyaluronic Acid:
With a molecular weight ranging from a few thousand to 50,000, its tiny molecules can rapidly penetrate deep into the skin, replenishing moisture and improving skin elasticity. This helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful and plump appearance. It's ideal for targeting specific, delicate areas such as tear troughs, lip enhancement, and overall facial hydration.
Hyaluronic Acid Molecular Sizes vs. Injection Sites
Hyaluronic Acid Can Be Used to Fill Areas Such As:
Popular Hyaluronic Acid Choices: Restylane® and Juvéderm:
Restylane®
Characteristics:
Tailored for Dynamic Aesthetics
Restylane® is designed with a focus on "dynamic aesthetics," also known as "Goddess Dynamic Hyaluronic Acid™." It is a more flexible hyaluronic acid with excellent gel elasticity. Using the patented Optimal Balance Technology (OBT), it enhances the stretching properties of the hyaluronic acid gel, making it more flexible and adaptable to facial expressions, resulting in a more natural look.
Long-lasting and Safe
Cultivated using biotechnology, Restylane® employs NASHA™ non-animal hyaluronic acid, which enhances stability and reduces the risk of allergic reactions in the human body. It has been continuously monitored in 2,500 users, with effects lasting up to 2 years.
Comprehensive Range of Formulations
Restylane® offers various types of hyaluronic acid, including large molecules, medium-sized molecules, and small molecules, each with unique physical characteristics. This variety allows it to be tailored to different skin depths and achieve customized results.
Witness
※The case photos in this text are clinic's pre- and post-operative photos, used for treatment explanation or supplementary educational information. They are for reference only. According to the announcement of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the case records obtained patient consent and are not medical advertisements.
Juvéderm
Characteristics:
Long-lasting
Juvéderm is the first and only hyaluronic acid filler FDA-certified to provide results that can last up to one to 18 months after the initial treatment. It performs exceptionally well, especially in the cheekbones area, with results that can extend up to 24 months.
Safety and Positive Feedback
Juvéderm has a fine, smooth texture and excellent stretchability. It offers a natural appearance with no pronounced granular sensation after the procedure. It can be fully absorbed by the human body, resulting in a high level of patient satisfaction.
Comprehensive Range of Formulations
Juvéderm offers various types of hyaluronic acid, including large molecules, medium-sized molecules, and small molecules, each with unique physical characteristics. This versatility allows for flexible and tailored applications that suit a wide range of users.
Witness
※The case photos in this text are clinic's pre- and post-operative photos, used for treatment explanation or supplementary educational information. They are for reference only. According to the announcement of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the case records obtained patient consent and are not medical advertisements.
Q:Does hyaluronic acid have side effects?
A:Since hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the human body, it's generally unlikely to cause allergies or adverse reactions. Hyaluronic acid can be naturally metabolized and absorbed by the body, making it quite safe. Most issues arise from errors in the "physician's technique" and the choice of "injectable type." It's recommended to select an experienced professional for the injection.
Q:Will hyaluronic acid injections leave scars?
A:Hyaluronic acid injections are a very safe procedure and do not leave scars.
Q:How long does the effect of hyaluronic acid last?
A:The duration of the effect generally varies depending on the formulation and the size of the molecules, but it typically lasts from six months to two years.
Q:Why do prices for hyaluronic acid injections vary?
A:Different brands of hyaluronic acid have unique characteristics, and the price can also vary based on the dosage and the specific treatment area.
Q:Does the skin "deflate" after hyaluronic acid injections?
A:No, the skin doesn't deflate after hyaluronic acid injections. Hyaluronic acid is slowly absorbed by the body, and it will eventually return to its original state. However, if the dosage is not well-controlled and too much hyaluronic acid is injected, the skin might be stretched, and this is why some individuals who have injected too much hyaluronic acid in the nasal bridge may appear overfilled over time.
Q:Who should not get hyaluronic acid injections?
A:All surgical procedures should be carefully assessed for safety by a professional physician and discussed with the patient for potential risks before proceeding.