Hylaform is an injectable dermal filler used to treat wrinkles and deep facial creases. It is made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found mainly in the skin, but present throughout the human body (the main function of which is to trap water and regulate intercellular spacing). Hyaluronic acid helps to maintain the volume of the skin. Hylaform is made from a purified animal-based hyaluronic acid, which is derived from the combs of specially bred roosters.
Dermal fillers are becoming a popular method of rejuvenating facial features. They reduce the appearance of wrinkles, creases and fine lines, provide volume to the skin and lips, and work to give a more youthful appearance. As such, there a number of dermal fillers in circulation that all work to limit the signs of aging. Some fillers, such as Hylaform, are derived from naturally occurring substances found in humans, animals or plants and some are synthetic. The following are alternatives to Hylaform.
BOTOX ®
BOTOX ® , also called botulinum toxin, is a neurotoxic protein used primarily in cosmetic dermatology to treat facial wrinkles, brow lines, crow's feet and other facial creases and lines. BOTOX ® can be used to treat the same type of lines as Hylaform, but it is not a dermal filler. It cannot be used to plump up the skin or the lips, and it comes with a greater number of risks and side effects. However, it is a cheaper option to Hylaform.
Isolagen
Isolagen is another dermal filler used to treat deep wrinkles, facial lines and creases, and even scars. What sets it apart from the other available dermal fillers is that it is the only treatment of its kind to be derived completely from the patient's own collagen-producing cells and tissue. As such, it is the only treatment that cannot be rejected by the immune system and so had minimal side effects and risks.
Juvederm
Juvederm is another filler that is derived from hyaluronic acid and so is a direct alternative for Hylaform. It is generally used to add volume to the lips and decrease the appearance of deep wrinkles and lines, but can also be used to shape the cheeks and the chin. Juvederm is favored in cosmetic dermatology because of the longevity of its effect; it usually lasts between 7 and 8 months, but has been known to last up to year.
Evolence
Evolence, derived from porcine tendons, is a collagen-based dermal filler that, like Hylaform, can be used to smooth wrinkles and skin folds. It is injected below the skin where it replaces diminished collagen and strengthens remaining collagen for a youthful appearance. Evolence is an alternative to Hylaform, as the risk of allergic reaction is low and its results are long lasting, with manufacturers claiming it lasts up to 12 months.
Artefill
This filler is made from bovine dermal collagen and is one of the only permanent injectable dermal fillers available. This Artefill can be used as an alternative to Hylaform, but there are a number of side effects including swelling, itching, pain, discoloration and tenderness.
