Hyaluronic Acid

For decades, the ideal substance to treat wrinkles and lines has not been available. In the past 3 decades, the most common dermal fillers have included collagen and silicone. However, these products have either not been durable and the results not predictable. Thus the search for a better agent is going on. The latest in line is hyaluronic acid derivatives. Products available include Hylaform, Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane and Esthï¾lis.

Hyaluronic acid is a jelly like substance which plays a vital role in the maintaining volume and support of tissues. High concentrations are found in connective tissue, in the fluid surrounding the eye, in between joints and in cartilage. Hyaluronic acid has a number of functions in the body which include:

- fills up the space in tissues

- cushions against injury

- provides nutrition

- lubrication

- Gives shape to tissues.

- Binds to collagen and supports skin

- Provides elasticity

Hyaluronic acid injections can be used as a dermal filler to improve the skin's contour, shape and diminish depressions in the skin due to scars, injury or lines.

Hyaluronic acid derivatives have been used to treat:

- Frown lines between the eyebrows

- lines on the corners of the mouth (perioral lines)

- lines that run across the forehead (worry lines)

- lines at the corner of the eyes (crow's lines)

- Deep lines that run along the sides of the nose

- Hollowed cheek depressions

- Acne Scars

- Facial injury scars

The majority of individuals are suitable for hyaluronic acid therapy. Because hyaluronic acid is not deemed to be a foreign product, the chances of allergy are almost nil.

Hyaluronic acid therapy is suitable for patients allergic to bovine collagen.

Hyaluronic acid injections are not permanent. The product does degrade with time and in most cases, the augmentation usually lasts anywhere between 3-9 months.

To maintain the initial results, repeat treatments are necessary. Most individuals require 2 to 3 treatments per year.

Hyaluronic acid derivatives have been around for about 5 years and so far the results have been acceptable.

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