Skin Boosters

Skin boosters are injectable treatments that aim to improve the quality of the skin rather than change the shape of the face. They usually use fluid hyaluronic acid products, given through superficial micro-injections spread evenly across the treated area.

Hyaluronic acid is a substance found naturally in the skin that attracts and holds water. With age, sun exposure and lifestyle, its levels fall and the skin becomes drier, thinner and less elastic. Skin boosters help restore hydration from within, and some products also contain other components that support skin quality. At Detalii Med in Baia Mare, the treatment is carried out by Dr Marius Pruna and Dr Valeria Pruna, plastic surgeons.

The treatment suits adults who notice:

• dehydrated skin that looks tired or dull;
• fine lines and uneven texture;
• loss of elasticity on the face, neck, décolletage or the backs of the hands;
• signs of early skin ageing related to sun exposure or lifestyle.

It is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, where there is an infection, active cold sores or inflammation in the area to be treated, or in people allergic to any component of the product. Autoimmune diseases, bleeding disorders and anticoagulant treatment are discussed with the doctor beforehand.

Skin boosters can make the skin more hydrated, smoother to the touch, more elastic and brighter, and fine lines may become less visible. The result is usually subtle and natural, without altering the features.

The treatment does not add significant volume, does not correct deep folds and does not lift lax tissues. For these, fillers, botulinum toxin or, in some cases, surgery may be more suitable. Pigmentation and visible blood vessels are not the main target of skin boosters either. The doctor may recommend combining them with other treatments, depending on the case.

At the consultation, the doctor assesses skin quality, hydration, fine lines and the areas that could benefit the patient. Medical history, allergies, current medicines, a tendency to bruise and previous aesthetic treatments are discussed.

Based on this assessment, the doctor decides on the areas to treat, the type of product and the recommended number of sessions. The patient is informed about realistic results, possible side effects and aftercare, then signs the informed consent form.

The session takes place in the consulting room and usually lasts 30–45 minutes, including preparation. Make-up is removed and the skin is disinfected, then the doctor administers the product through numerous superficial micro-injections, using a fine needle or a cannula, spread evenly over the treated area. Finally, the skin is cleansed and a cold compress may be applied.

An initial course of two to three sessions about four weeks apart is usually recommended, followed by maintenance sessions. The exact number depends on the condition of the skin and the product chosen.

For comfort, an anaesthetic cream is usually applied to the area about 20–30 minutes before treatment. Some products also contain a small amount of local anaesthetic. Most patients describe the sensation as light pricks that are easy to tolerate.

Immediately after the session, small bumps may remain at the injection points; they usually settle within a few hours to a day or two. Redness or small bruises may also appear. Most patients return to their usual activities the same day or the next.

Usual recommendations for the first 24–48 hours:

• no make-up on the day of treatment, unless the doctor advises otherwise;
• avoid facial massage, strenuous exercise, saunas and swimming pools;
• use sun protection and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

Skin boosters are generally well tolerated, and side effects are usually mild and temporary: redness, swelling, small palpable lumps, bruising or tenderness in the treated area.

Less often, there may be infection, a flare-up of cold sores in people prone to them, allergic or delayed inflammatory reactions, or persistent lumps. As with any hyaluronic acid injection, there is also a rare risk of affecting a blood vessel. The patient should contact the doctor if they notice severe pain, a change in skin colour, increasing swelling or signs of infection.

Once the small bumps have settled, the skin may look more hydrated within the first few days. Improvements in texture and elasticity develop gradually and are usually noticeable after the second or third session.

The effect generally lasts around six months, sometimes more or less, depending on the product, age, skin condition and lifestyle. To maintain it, the doctor may recommend maintenance sessions, usually every few months. Daily sun protection and good skincare help preserve the result.

Skin boosters are an option for those who want more hydrated, smoother and brighter skin, with a natural result and a quick recovery. They do not replace volume or lifting treatments, but they can complement them. At the consultation at Detalii Med in Baia Mare, the doctor decides whether the treatment is suitable and which course of sessions makes sense for each patient.