Is hyaluronic acid a natural substance?
For those who are seeking non-surgical cosmetic treatments, dermal fillers are a popular option. These versatile treatments offer a variety of benefits, including filling wrinkles and adding volume to the face. Many of these treatments contain a substance called hyaluronic acid. Is this a chemical, or a natural substance? How does it work? How can it help you to look younger and healthier?
Hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring
Hyaluronic acid, or HA, is a naturally occurring substance within the body. It’s found in a variety of tissues, including in the skin as well as joints, muscles, and even eyes. HA is a type of substance known scientifically as a humectant. This means that it acts much like a molecular sponge, holding water in the tissues in order to keep them hydrated. It’s very effective at this; in fact, HA is able to hold about 1000 times its own weight in water.
The body’s natural HA is constantly being renewed. Molecules of HA break down, and new ones are created. Although the body does replenish the HA, the amount still tends to decline slowly over time as part of the aging process. The cells gradually lose their ability to synthesize enough HA to replace what is lost. This is why HA can be a useful anti-aging treatment.
Hyaluronic acid may be created in different ways
HA is a natural substance, and there are a few different ways that it can be derived for use in injectable products. In some cases, it’s extracted from animal parts, generally those that can’t be used for food (such as rooster combs). Another way to derive HA is to synthesize it in a laboratory. Either way that HA is derived, the substance will be the same on a molecular level. Your body should not react to the HA, regardless of its source, because it’s the same as your own natural HA.
Hyaluronic acid injectables
The most common use of HA is in injectables (such as Resytlane® and Juvéderm®). These products are injected under the skin, in order to restore lost facial volume and fill deep grooves and wrinkles. The HA will last for a period of time before gradually being reabsorbed by the body. In order to maintain the results of an HA injectable treatment, it will have to be repeated. Depending on the specific product and where it’s injected, results can last anywhere from a few months to two years; we will let you know what to expect for your specific product when you come for your injection.
HA can also be used in topical products as a moisturizer. It needs to be formulated to be able to penetrate into the skin, where it can help to hold water. Dr. Caniglia’s Ultra Hyaluronic Intense Moisturizer is formulated with HA, as well as other ingredients that help it to effectively moisturize without being heavy or greasy.
Dermal fillers Scottsdale
If you’re considering a hyaluronic acid filler, then you’ll want to choose a great injector to ensure that you get the best possible results from your treatment. Consulting with a medical professional who specializes in cosmetic medicine will also ensure that you have access to advice about all of your different treatment options, so that you can choose what makes the most sense for you. If you’re considering dermal fillers Scottsdale, we invite you to book a consultation here with Dr. Caniglia. As a specialist in facial cosmetic medicine (including plastic surgery as well as non-surgical treatment options), he’s known for producing excellent results for his many satisfied patients.