What is Injectable HA? (Restylane)

by Jackson Taylor
(Portland, Oregon, US)

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is one of the most promising age-defying products available, but many people may not be familiar with its properties or benefits. The naturally occurring substance is a great way to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles – and take years off of your face!

This substance is a lubricant found in our organs and joints. Hyaluronic acid can hold more than 10,000 times its own weight in water, which makes it the perfect solution to increase and maintain skin cell hydration. The lubricant is plentiful in our bodies when we are young, but as we age, it decreases. Hyaluronic acid lives in the deep level of our skin known as the dermis. Since it retains water so well, it can easily help our skin repair wounds, burns and other problems. When the skin is well hydrated, it also looks more youthful.

In its purest forms in our bodies, hyaluronic acid sits between the skin and our connective tissue. Here, its cushion-like properties can support the skin. When it is injected into the face, the lubricant will prop up facial structures and tissues that can deflate as we age.

The acid is also known for maintaining collagen levels in the skin. Like hyaluronic acid, collagen levels decrease as we age. This loss is one of the main reasons we notice fading skin tone and a loss in elasticity. Hyaluronic acid stimulates collagen regeneration, which makes it far superior to collagen creams. Those creams are only surface solutions and will never reach the deeper levels of our skin where our fine lines and wrinkles live. Since hyaluronic acid is injected into the skin, it can reach the deeper levels and address our skin problems where they originate.

Hyaluronic acid injections have several potential side effects clients should understand before deciding to have the procedure. The injection site can sting while the liquid is introduced into the face. This stinging is similar to any other procedure that involves a needle. There is debate about whether hyaluronic acid is safe for women who are pregnant or nursing. Since it is unclear whether the product is safe for moms-to-be, it is best to avoid injections until after the baby is delivered. For the same reason, mothers who are nursing are discouraged from getting hyaluronic acid injections, as it is unclear how the lubricant will impact a woman's breast milk.

Almost everyone can benefit from a hyaluronic acid injection. Since the liquid used is almost identical to that which naturally occurs in the body, it is far superior to bovine collagen injections. There are almost no side effects and it will not cause an allergic reaction.

Of all age-defying products, hyaluronic acid is one of the safest and most reliable. While no product can halt the aging process, this injection is a great way to slow it down considerably. If you are considering a trying an age-defying injection for the first time, hyaluronic acid is the perfect choice for you!