Profhilo treatment explained

Profhilo is a new anti-ageing treatment, which involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the skin. It is ideal for patients whose skin has started losing its natural firmness and elasticity, normally as a result of the ageing process, but smoking, stress and environmental factors may also be factors.

This “skin remodelling treatment” can work almost anywhere, including the face, the neck, décolleté, hands, arms and knees, or other parts of the body in which the skin is starting to show noticeable signs of ageing. Following Profhilo treatment, patients have noticed an immediate and visible improvement in brightness and hydration of the skin, in addition to firmness and a reduction in wrinkles.

Hyaluronic acid based treatments are typically applied to the cheeks or lips, increasing volume, or in other areas of the face to plump and contour. Although Profhilo consists of the same key ingredient, the molecular configuration and mechanical properties of the gel are different. Profhilo is designed to flow over a larger area and boost hydration, thus smoothing out and rejuvenating the skin. It does not change our face shape or add volume, in contrast to traditional fillers.

How does the procedure work?

Hyaluronic Acid is a key component of native connective tissues found within the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Hyaluronic acid is a substance which is naturally produced within the body. Its primary function is to aid the production of collagen and retain the body’s moisture, being able to hold one-thousand times its own weight in water. As such, hyaluronic acid is the ideal substance for retaining and binding moisture within the skin.

However, as we begin to age, the level of hyaluronic acid produced within the body decreases, causing the skin to lose its youthfulness, becoming duller and more dehydrated. Progressive loss of key structural components in the skin contribute to this, meaning that the skin gradually forms wrinkles and fine lines.

Profhilo comprises one of the greatest concentrations of stabilised hyaluronic acid available. Being chemically bonded, it is different from other fillers, which are thermally bonded. This means that Profhilo acts more like a hydrating treatment, rather than a filler.

The treatment is injected right under the skin’s surface, allowing it to quickly disperse and react with the patient’s own tissue. This will instantly cause a hydration boost, with almost immediate physical results.

During the following four weeks, the treatment continues to go to work, by enhancing the production of collagen and elastin. The effect this has is a younger, smoother, plumper appearance, thus remodelling the skin altogether.

Owing to its gel-like texture, Profhilo is able to distribute evenly and smoothly, without forming any lumps – which is a risk that sometimes takes place when using ordinary fillers. For this reason, Profhilo may be injected in areas that are often problematic to treat using traditional fillers, for example, the forehead and neck.

Do I need multiple treatments?

Two treatment sessions are recommended, carried out four weeks apart. Patients may wish to undergo additional sessions after six months to maintain results.

Profhilo is a treatment which can be carried out individually, or in combination with other treatment types, such as facial fillers and laser treatments. In such cases, it should be used as a complimentary procedure, as opposed to an alternative one.

Who is Profhilo best for?

This is a cosmetic procedure which is most suitable for patients who are 30 and over, particularly those who are unhappy with the laxity of their skin, or are experiencing obvious signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and fine lines.

There is no age limit for this treatment either. In fact, many older patients have seen dramatic results. That being said, those over the age of 60 undergoing treatment often need to be managed more carefully or may be better suited for combination treatments. An initial consultation is necessary to determine the best treatment approach.

How is the procedure carried out?

The treatment is injected using fine needles, directly beneath the skin, at five specific points on each side of the face. The procedure is mostly pain-free, which means that there is typically no need to apply a pain relief cream as with other treatments. The whole procedure should only take approximately 10 minutes.

If being used on the face, five points of injection are needed on both sides to provide the best results.

24 hours before treatment, alcohol, aspirin and anti-inflammatory medication should be avoided as they can increase the risk of bruising.

What is the recovery process like?

No downtime or time off work is necessary after Profhilo treatment. Following the procedure, patients can return to their normal day-to-day activities.

For the first 24 hours following the procedure, patients are advised to refrain from applying make-up. They should also not participate in any strenuous exercise, including swimming. During the first few days, while the skin is healing, patients should not use steam rooms or saunas. The injection points will be noticeable at first, but they should subside completely within 24 hours.

Are there any possible risks or side effects?

Patients will not typically need to take an allergy test before having the procedure since the risk of a reaction is extremely low, as Profhilo is a substance which contains no synthetic chemicals and is completely metabolised in the body.

It is not uncommon to notice some tenderness, redness, or minor bruising after the treatment. Likewise, itchiness at the points of injection is normal. All of these side effects are temporary, which means they should clear up in just a few hours or up to a day. If other side effects are present, consult a doctor immediately.

Other important points to consider

People who have bleeding conditions, or medical conditions that result in a weaker immune system, for instance, HIV, cancer and diabetes, must seek medical advice before undergoing any cosmetic treatment If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is not recommended to undergo any cosmetic injectable procedures.

Just like any cosmetic or medical procedure, patients should carry out research and seek out a highly experienced, qualified practitioner. Not all patients will benefit from this treatment and Daniel Ezra will always have an initial consultation with patients, allowing them to discuss their needs and come to an informed decision on the best treatment option for them.

Should I undergo Profhilo treatment?

For those wishing to make an immediate but subtle change to their appearance, Profhilo may be the most suitable treatment option. People often comment on how quickly the results are visible, being able to notice a difference immediately following the initial session.

After undergoing this award-winning treatment, the skin will typically appear smoother and brighter, with the results generally improving in the coming weeks and months. The effects may be visible for six months, with variations from patient to patient, so repeat or top-up procedures may be necessary.