Wrinkle treatment with hyaluronic acid is one of the gentlest methods against unwelcome wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid is also used in other medical areas, for example in joint therapy. What special features make hyaluronic acid so interesting for medicine and especially for aesthetics? Are there any risks with hyaluronic acid? We have compiled the answers to frequently asked questions about hyaluronic acid for you below.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a gel-like and transparent substance. It is produced by the body itself and is found, for example, in connective tissue, in the eye and in synovial fluid. Looking at the chemical structure of hyaluronic acid, it is a multi-chain polysaccharide – a polysaccharide. As the human body is very familiar with this sugar molecule, there are hardly any side effects, allergies or intolerances to treatments with hyaluronic acid.
Why is hyaluronic acid so popular as an anti-ageing agent?
In addition to its good tolerability and low side effects, it is above all the moisture-binding property that makes hyaluronic acid so interesting for medicine and aesthetics. Hyaluronic acid is able to bind around 6000 times its own weight in water. This means that one gram of hyaluronic acid can bind up to six liters of water. This allows valuable moisture to be supplied to the skin, which in turn has a positive effect on the skin’s structure and youthful appearance. This also has a plumping effect: hyaluronic acid can be used to even out volume deficits and deep wrinkles. The active ingredient can also be used to harmoniously contour and thus emphasize individual areas of the face. One of the most important factors is that the injected hyaluronic acid stimulates the body to produce new connective tissue (collagen). This sustainably improves the skin structure.
How is hyaluronic acid used in aesthetic medicine?
In the medical field, hyaluronic acid is mainly used via injections. In wrinkle and volume treatment, small deposits of hyaluronic acid are injected under the skin using a thin cannula. Depending on the nature of the hyaluronic acid preparation, it is either distributed over a wide area and has a general effect on the complexion or it leads to a natural plumping (“softening”) of the area.
Hyaluronic acid is also available in capsule form. Their effectiveness is controversial. Hyaluronic acid is also used as an ingredient in creams and lotions in the beauty sector.
A prior skin analysis at the Weißensee Skin Center enables us to determine which treatments and care products can optimally support your skin and improve its structure. For ideal results, the coordination and combination of professional treatments in the practice and daily care at home are very important. At the Weißensee Skin Center, we use the modern VISIA® 7 technology for deep skin analysis. Find out more about it here .
What treatments are available with hyaluronic acid?
Do creams with hyaluronic acid really help the skin?
Hyaluronic acid is a popular ingredient in various anti-ageing and skin care products. When applied to the skin, hyaluronic acid can certainly provide support and counteract age-related changes. The moisture balance can also be optimized in this way. However, it should be noted that the external application of creams and lotions cannot be equated with the effect of injections. Treatment by a specialist is more effective and lasts longer, as the hyaluronic acid is injected directly into the skin, where it takes effect. The combination of professional treatments by a dermatologist and personalized skin care at home is ideal.
How long does a treatment with hyaluronic acid take?
Treatment with hyaluronic acid is not very time-consuming. It is usually completed after around 30 to 60 minutes (including possible preparation and follow-up work). The duration of treatment depends on the size of the area.
How long does hyaluronic acid remain in the skin?
Hyaluronic acid is broken down naturally by the body. How long this process takes varies from person to person. Both predisposition and personal lifestyle have an influence on this. The results of hyaluronic acid injections usually last between twelve and 24 months. The exact composition of the hyaluronic acid preparation also plays a role in the duration of effect. Cross-linked hyaluronic acids usually have a longer shelf life in the skin than non-cross-linked acids, which are broken down more quickly.
What side effects can occur with hyaluronic acid?
Treatments with hyaluronic acid are considered gentle and are associated with few risks. Nevertheless, the active ingredient requires specialist medical knowledge and experience to ensure that the treatment is safe and to the patient’s satisfaction. Slight discomfort that may occur after an injection with hyaluronic acid is slight swelling and redness. The risk of infection or inflammation is very low. Allergies or intolerances do not usually occur either. Hardening of the tissue (nodule formation) is theoretically possible, but is one of the complications that are kept to a minimum by an experienced specialist.
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If you have any further questions about treatment with hyaluronic acid, we will be happy to advise you personally. Arrange your appointment for a non-binding consultation conveniently online or give us a call . We look forward to seeing you!
