In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic medicine, new treatments and technologies are constantly emerging to help individuals look refeeshed. Among these innovations are biostimulators, a category of injectable treatments that have gained significant attention for their ability to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. But what exactly are biostimulators, how do they work, and how do they compare to traditional dermal fillers? Here I explore these questions, offering a comprehensive guide to understanding biostimulators and their place in the world of aesthetics.

What are biostimulators?

Biostimulators are injectable substances designed to stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen and elastin, the two key proteins responsible for maintaining skin’s strength, flexibility, and smoothness. Unlike traditional fillers that primarily add volume to specific areas of the face, biostimulators work more gradually, encouraging the body to rebuild its own collagen network. This results in improved skin texture, enhanced facial volume, and a more youthful appearance over time.

The concept behind biostimulators is to provide a more natural and long-lasting rejuvenation by leveraging the body’s own regenerative processes. By stimulating collagen production, biostimulators can address signs of ageing such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and loss of volume in a way that evolves gradually, offering subtle yet significant improvements.

How do biostimulators work?

When injected into the skin, biostimulators act as a scaffold, providing a framework around which new collagen fibres can form. As the body’s fibroblasts (the cells responsible for collagen production) are stimulated, they begin to produce new collagen over several weeks to months. This gradual process leads to a natural-looking improvement in skin volume, elasticity, and texture. The results are not immediate, as it takes time for the body to produce new collagen, but they are long-lasting and can continue to improve over several months.

Who is a good candidate for biostimulators?

Biostimulators are ideal for individuals looking for long-term improvements in skin quality and facial volume without the need for frequent touch-ups. They are particularly suitable for those who prefer a more natural enhancement that builds gradually rather than an immediate, more dramatic change. Patients with mild to moderate signs of ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of facial volume, can benefit greatly from biostimulators. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified aesthetic practitioner to determine if biostimulators are the right choice based on individual skin type, ageing concerns, and desired outcomes.

Different types of biostimulators

Several types of biostimulators are available on the market, each with unique properties and benefits. The most commonly used biostimulators include Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA), and Polycaprolactone (PCL). Let’s take a closer look at these popular options.

Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA)

PLLA, the ingredient in the well-known brand Sculptra, is a synthetic, biodegradable polymer that has been used in aesthetic medicine for many years. When injected into the skin, PLLA gradually stimulates collagen production, leading to a fuller, more youthful appearance. The effects of PLLA develop over several months, making it ideal for patients who prefer a subtle, natural enhancement that evolves over time. Sculptra is particularly effective for restoring volume in areas such as the cheeks, temples, and jawline.

Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA)

CaHA is a naturally occurring mineral found in human bones and teeth. In aesthetic treatments, it is used in the form of tiny, smooth particles suspended in a gel. CaHA-based biostimulators, such as Radiesse and HArmonyCa, provide immediate volume and lift to the treated area while also stimulating collagen production for longer-lasting results. HArmonyCa combines CaHA with hyaluronic acid (HA) to offer both immediate lifting effects and sustained collagen stimulation. It’s particularly effective for treating skin laxity as well as enhancing facial contours.

Polycaprolactone (PCL)

PCL is a biodegradable polymer used in a range of medical applications, including biostimulators. Ellanse is a well-known brand of PCL-based fillers that offer long-term collagen stimulation. The results from PCL biostimulators can last from one to four years, depending on the specific product used.

Comparing Biostimulators and Fillers

While both biostimulators and traditional dermal fillers are injectable treatments used to enhance facial aesthetics, they differ significantly in how they work, their longevity, and outcomes.

How do they work?

Traditional fillers, typically made from hyaluronic acid (HA), work by adding immediate volume to specific areas of the face. They are often used to fill in wrinkles, enhance lips, and add volume to the cheeks and other areas. The results are instant but generally last between six months to a year, depending on the product and the individual’s metabolism.

In contrast, biostimulators do not provide immediate volume (with the exception of certain products like HArmonyCa, which offer some immediate effect). Instead, they work by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production, which takes time. The results develop gradually over several weeks to months and can last for several years.

Longevity

One of the key advantages of biostimulators over traditional fillers is the longevity of results. While fillers need to be reinjected more regularly, biostimulators can provide results that last from one to several years, depending on the product used. This makes biostimulators a more cost-effective and long-term solution for individuals looking for sustained improvements.

Are they right for you?

Fillers are ideal for patients looking for structural change in the face, and the restoration of contours.

Biostimulators, on the other hand, are best suited for individuals seeking more skin quality change, and more gradual improvements with long-lasting effects. They are particularly effective for addressing overall skin quality, enhancing facial volume in a more global way, and promoting long-term collagen production.

Biostimulators represent a significant advancement in the field of aesthetic medicine, offering a unique approach to facial rejuvenation by harnessing the body’s natural regenerative processes.

There is a role for both fillers and biostimulators in treatment. The choice of product depends on the needs of the patient, and needs a careful selection to ensure best results for the patient. By understanding the differences between these two approaches, patients can make more informed decisions about the best treatment options for their individual needs and goals.

If you’d like to learn more about biostimulators, and what’s right for you, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.