Profhilo: the wonders of hyaluronic acid

The key to plump and hydrated skin, hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule produced naturally in the body that helps to retain moisture. As we grow older, however, ageing and environmental irritants cause hyaluronic acid levels to drop, leading to a loss of elasticity and firmness in the skin.

To combat this, some people may choose to use Profhilo, a hyaluronic acid-based facial treatment that targets skin flaccidity. Dr Anne Gormley, leading facial aesthetics clinician, explains more.

What is Profhilo? What is Profhilo used for?

Profhilo is an injectable moisturiser made up of thermally modified hyaluronic acid, which has a higher molecular weight than the hyaluronic acid found naturally in the skin.

When Profhilo is injected into the subcutaneous layer of the skin, it slows down the rate at which hyaluronidase can destroy the hyaluronic acid, consequently helping to preserve the collagen in the skin. It also boosts and hydrates the skin, regenerating the ‘youthfulness of the skin.’ Moreover, Profhilo helps to slow down the ageing process, by attracting water into the deeper layers of the skin and having a prolonged stimulating effect on the collagen and elastin. This stimulation remodels ageing and sagging skin.

Is Profhilo better than fillers and Botox?

Profhilo cannot be directly compared to dermal fillers or Botulinum toxins, as it neither volumizes the tissues nor does it paralyse the muscles. Profhilo is primarily designed as a maintenance treatment as opposed to a corrective treatment, falling into the category of skin boosters.

How long does Profhilo last?

Profhilo is administered into ten areas - five on either side of the face – in two treatments, which are required one month apart. The ideal regime encourages the patient to return for one course of treatment every six months after that or repeat the two courses once a year.

What can go wrong with Profhilo?

Complications with Profhilo include the normal short-term problems associated with using needles such as redness, bruising, swelling, itchiness and infection. A vascular occlusion is also possible, but because Profhilo diffuses rapidly through the skin, this complication is much less likely to occur than with dermal fillers.

Profhilo was named ‘Injectable Product of the year’ at the Aesthetics Awards 2022. It is also useful to note that clinicians must prove that they have done at least 100 dermal filler treatments in order to be accepted on the Profhilo training programme. This ensures that only the most competent clinicians are allowed to inject Profhilo.

If you’re looking to try Profhilo, or simply wish to know more about this facial treatment, don’t hesitate to visit Dr Gormley’s Top Doctors profile today.