What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that is primarily found in skin but also exists in other areas of the body such as joints, eyes, and connective tissues. It acts as lubrication in these areas.
What is so important about Hyaluronic Acid in our skin?
It attracts water, AKA moisture to our skin; resulting in a more hydrated, supple appearance. This allows your skin to appear more youthful and firm.
Sadly, after the age of 20 we start to lose our natural hyaluronic acid resulting in lack luster skin and wrinkles. I often get asked by clients, “How can I get that dewy, glassy look?” There are several things you need to do to achieve this look and having hyaluronic acid in your arsenal is in the top three.
Microneedling and chemical peels are the other two primary treatments I recommend to obtain the coveted look of glass. When you think of hyaluronic acid, think of moisture.
How should Hyaluronic Acid be applied?
Hyaluronic acid can be applied topically twice a day to add and attract moisture. In this format, it acts as a humectant and prevents water loss. Studies have also shown that it can help with acne scaring and wound healing. I recommend all my clients suffering from acne to use 2% Hyaluronic Acid from DermaMade. Not all products are created equal. HA has to be the right molecular weight in order to penetrate the skin. Research your product. Medical grade products are typically better than something you will find at the local drug store.
Hyaluronic Acid Treatments
Hyaluronic Acid can also be injected as a facial filler. HA is often used to create volume, fullness, and structure to areas of the face. It can help contour cheekbones, soften lines around the nose and mouth and provide added volume to the lips.
Dermal fillers target volume loss rather than muscle-related wrinkles. There are different consistencies and techniques for placement that only a trained professional can use.
A thinner HA is best to add hydration to areas of the face and lips. Sometimes all a client wants is to look hydrated, and that can be achieved with Redensity HA.
A stronger structured HA can be used to mimic bone structure to create lift or develop a more prominent chin and an intermediate HA can add volume to the lips, creating a fuller pout.
Results typically last 9 months to a year and for some clients, longer. There are many areas that can be treated and HA can be combined with other treatments to obtain even better results. It is best to schedule a consult to talk about all your options.
Are there risks associated with Hyaluronic Acid?
There are minimal risks when it comes to using topical hyaluronic acid. Although extremely rare, if you have sensitive skin or an allergy you could develop a dermatitis or allergic reaction. The same is true with hyaluronic acid that is injected into the skin or dermis.
The most concerning risk with injection of hyaluronic acid is a vascular occlusion. All dermal fillers have a small risk for development of a vascular occlusion during treatment. This is a rare occurrence that is discussed in depth along with other risks and benefits of dermal filler during your filler consult. It is extremely important that your provider is informing you of this possibility. There are many types of filler so it is important to ask if you are receiving hyaluronic acid or something else. Hyaluronic Acid Filler is the only type of filler that has a reversal agent if such an event were to occur. This is the reason at TEAL we only provide this type of filler.
Having an injector that is knowledgeable about anatomy and takes the time to mark and assess your anatomy is another factor that provides safety during your treatment.
Other risks are minor and include bruising, redness, and small bumps that will all disappear soon after the treatment.