Dermal Fillers ~ Restylane

What is Restylane?

Restylane is an injectable dermal filler, which is a new and safe advancement in wrinkle management. Widely used throughout the world, the Restylane® gel is simply injected into problem wrinkle areas to create fullness and a smoother contour. It’s a popular choice as a filler, as it is made of hyaluronic acid, which is found naturally in our skin and joints. Hyaluronic acid is touted as the 'new collagen' in New Zealand, because it is not derived from animals, and so reduces the risk of allergic reactions. Because it is not an animal product a skin test is not required for this treatment.

How Can A Filler Benefit Me?

Restylane is most effective in restoring lip fullness and the definition of the lip line. It can improve facial contours and restore loss of volume. Many patients also have Restylane treatments to improve wrinkles and deep frown lines. It is an excellent dermal filler for use under the eyes to reduce hollowness. Smile lines, forehead creases, and fine lines around the mouth can all be imroved with the help of Restylane.

Treatment & Potential Side Effects of Restylane Injections

A very fine need is used for a dermal filler procedure. Injections target problem wrinkle areas, leaving your skin supple and refreshed, with results lasting for up to 12 months, depending on the site.
A little redness is usual due to the needling. Restylane also absorbs a small amount of water, which makes it more effective, but this also means that there can be slightly more swelling on the 2nd or 3rd day after treatment. Few patients experience side-effects. There may be slight bruising, redness or minor skin irritation. Significant problems are rare.

Restylane Vs. Botox

While Botox inhibits the muscle activity, Restylane is purely a wrinkle filler, which inflates the skin creating an even, smoother complexion. They are, in fact, complimentary. In combination, they are a powerful way to address the frown lines between the eyebrows.

Breakthrough Research ~ Restylane Creates Natural Collagen

It has been found that Restylane works in a way that actually creates new, natural collagen. This particular filler works by stretching fibroblasts, the cells in the skin that make collagen, in a way that causes the skin to create new collagen. This new, natural collagen then contributes to the reduction of the appearance of creases and wrinkles. The study also shows that the product seems to inhibit the breakdown of existing collagen.

"Prior to our research, it had been thought that Restylane's physical volume caused the improvement in the appearance of one's skin," says senior author John J. Voorhees, M.D. The Duncan and Ella Poth Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Dermatology at the University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor.

"It is true that the physical presence of the product increases volume in the skin. Our research makes clear that injection of the product leads to creation of new collagen, which contributes to reduction in creases and wrinkles in a person's aging skin." Voorhees says.

Visit the official Restylane website for more information.