Collagen biostimulators

Collagen biostimulators are injectable substances that encourage the skin to produce more of its own collagen. Collagen is the protein that gives the skin firmness and density; with age, its production declines and the skin becomes thinner and less elastic.

Unlike directly filling a wrinkle, biostimulators work over time: after injection, the body responds by gradually forming new collagen. The most commonly used substances are poly-L-lactic acid and combinations of hyaluronic acid with calcium hydroxylapatite. At Detalii Med, in Baia Mare, the treatment is performed by Dr Marius Pruna, Dr Valeria Pruna and Dr Greta Jurj.

The treatment may be discussed for people who notice:

• loss of firmness and density in the facial skin;
• thinner skin with a tired or slightly sagging appearance;
• moderate volume loss, for example in the cheeks or temples;
• skin laxity on the neck, décolletage or other areas, depending on the indication.

It is particularly suitable for those who prefer a gradual, natural-looking improvement. The treatment is not carried out during pregnancy or breastfeeding, when there is an infection in the treatment area, or in certain conditions, which are discussed at the consultation.

Biostimulators can improve the firmness, density and quality of the skin and gradually restore some of the lost volume. The result is usually subtle and natural.

The treatment does not have an immediate effect and does not replace a surgical facelift when the skin is very lax. It does not remove expression lines caused by muscle contraction and is not suitable for precise contour corrections, where other procedures may be indicated. The response varies from person to person.

At the consultation, the doctor assesses skin quality, volume loss and the areas that would benefit from treatment. The doctor discusses with the patient what bothers them and what result they hope for.

The doctor asks about medical history, allergies, medication, previous aesthetic treatments and any autoimmune conditions. Based on the assessment, the type of biostimulator, the areas to treat and the approximate number of sessions are chosen. The patient also learns what can realistically be expected, including the fact that the effect develops gradually.

The treatment area is cleaned and disinfected. The substance is injected with a fine needle or a cannula, in the plane chosen by the doctor, and distributed evenly. Depending on the product, the doctor may recommend massaging the area for a few days after injection to help it spread as evenly as possible.

A session usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Several sessions are often needed, a few weeks apart, with the number decided at the consultation according to the area and the skin's response.

An anaesthetic cream is usually applied to the skin before injection, and some products also contain a local anaesthetic. Discomfort is generally mild and short-lived.

After treatment, redness, mild swelling, tenderness or small bruises may appear at the injection sites. These usually settle within a few days. Most patients return to their usual activities straight away or the next day.

For a few days, it is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, strong sun exposure and make-up immediately after the procedure, as advised by the doctor. If the doctor recommends massage, it is important to do it as explained.

The risks are discussed at the consultation and include:

• redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness at the injection site;
• nodules or small lumps that can be felt under the skin, sometimes appearing later;
• asymmetry or an uneven result;
• infection, rarely;
• allergic or inflammatory reactions, rarely;
• very rarely, accidental injection into a blood vessel, affecting circulation in the area.

Following the aftercare advice helps to reduce these risks.

The effect of biostimulators develops gradually, over a few weeks or months, as new collagen forms. Combinations with hyaluronic acid can provide a visible volume effect sooner, followed by collagen stimulation.

Results usually last longer than with standard filler treatments, but duration varies with the product, age, skin quality and lifestyle. Periodic sessions may be recommended for maintenance.

Collagen biostimulators help the skin produce more of its own collagen, for better firmness and density. The effect develops gradually, and several sessions are usually needed. The type of product and the treatment plan are decided at the consultation, according to each patient's needs.