What Is Hyaluronic Acid? Its Role in the Skin, in Skincare and in Fillers
Hyaluronic acid is a substance found naturally in the body that has the ability to bind water. It is present in large amounts in the skin, in joint fluid and in the eye. In aesthetics, it is used both in skincare products and in filler treatments; however, these two uses are different from each other. This article explains what hyaluronic acid is and its place in aesthetic treatments.
What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do in the Body?
Hyaluronic acid belongs to a group of molecules called glycosaminoglycans. In the skin, it holds water and helps the tissue stay hydrated and plump; in the joints it supports lubrication, and in the eye it supports the structure of the tissues. With age, the amount of hyaluronic acid in the skin decreases. Together with the loss of collagen and elastin, this change contributes to the skin looking drier, thinner and looser.
Hyaluronic Acid in Skincare Products
Hyaluronic acid in products such as serums, creams and toners has a moisturising effect on the surface of the skin and can help dry skin feel more comfortable. These products do not correct deep wrinkles or volume loss; their effects are superficial and temporary. Before using a new product, it is recommended to test it on a small area and to stop using it if irritation occurs. Eye drops and joint injections containing hyaluronic acid are separate medical uses and are applied on a doctor's recommendation.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid Filler?
The hyaluronic acid used in filler treatments is a substance that has been cross-linked into a gel so that it can remain under the skin for longer. This gel is injected into areas with volume loss to provide support. The lips, the cheek and cheekbone area, the nasolabial folds, the chin and jawline and the under-eye area are among the areas where it is used. The doctor decides at the examination which filler density is suitable for which area.
How Long It Lasts and Whether It Can Be Reversed
Hyaluronic acid filler is broken down by the body over time, so the result is temporary. How long it lasts depends on the structure of the filler used, the area treated, the amount and the person; it may last a shorter time in areas that move a lot. An important feature of hyaluronic acid fillers is that, if necessary, they can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This allows the doctor to intervene in the event of an unwanted result or a complication such as vascular occlusion.
Who Should Not Have It?
- People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- People with an active infection, a cold sore or an inflammatory skin condition in the treatment area
- People with a history of allergy to the filler's ingredients
- People with a bleeding disorder
Blood thinners or other regular medicines should not be stopped without asking a doctor, and the doctor performing the procedure should be told about them beforehand. Diseases that affect the immune system and chronic diseases are also assessed at the examination.
Possible Risks
Swelling, redness, bruising and tenderness are usually temporary. Less commonly, infection, lumps, irregularity or asymmetry and an allergic reaction may occur. A rare but serious risk is the filler material blocking a blood vessel. If increasing pain, whitening or purplish discolouration of the skin, or a vision disturbance is noticed, a doctor should be contacted immediately. Filler treatments should be performed by a doctor under appropriate conditions. For more information, see our face filler and lip filler pages.
Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın