Many people think of skin boosters as simply a hyaluronic acid filler. But today, ‘skin boosters’ describes a wide range of advanced dermal treatments designed to address skin quality rather than change facial shape or add hydration. And not only are they effective, but they are also popular.
With so many cosmetic treatments available, though, you’d be forgiven if you’re not up to speed on all of this. So, in simple terms, skin boosters are cosmetic treatments that are administered (by a registered nurse or cosmetic doctor) below the skin’s surface, reaching the dermis. Unlike traditional volumising products (which are dense and used to add volume or alter the shape of the face), skin boosters have a thinner consistency that spreads evenly across the treated area.
Not all boosters are the same, though. Different skin boosters work through different biological pathways, meaning two treatments described as skin boosters may behave quite differently. Although products differ, most aim to address one or more of the following:
- Hydration
- Elasticity
- Collagen support
- Skin texture
- Luminosity
- Fine lines
- Overall skin quality
Consequently, skin boosters can benefit individuals of various ages with different objectives. And, they can be used on various parts of the body, most commonly on the face, neck, decolletage, and backs of hands.
Categories of skin boosters
Hyaluronic Acid Skin Boosters
These were the first boosters to enter the market. They improve hydration because hyaluronic acid (HA) binds with water within the skin. Therefore, they create plumper, healthier-looking skin and can soften fine lines.
Biostimulatory Skin Boosters
Rather than simply hydrating the skin, these boosters encourage the skin to produce more of its own collagen over time. It’s not an immediate fix; instead, results develop gradually and often last longer.
Polynucleotide (PN) Treatments
These boosters contain DNA fragments that, when administered to the skin, support tissue repair and skin regeneration. Rather than acting as fillers, they are designed to improve the skin’s overall health and resilience. You may have heard of Rejuran, a prescription-only injectable treatment that contains PN, DNA fragments derived from salmon.
Growth Factor or Regenerative Treatments
Some newer products aim to influence cell signalling and wound healing pathways. This is an exciting area of aesthetic medicine, although the research is still evolving.
Why collagen matters
We’ve all heard of products that ‘boost collagen’, but what does this actually mean, and why is collagen so important in skin?
Collagen acts as the skin’s structural framework. It provides essential strength, elasticity and hydration, which visibly supports the skin. It gives the dermis, the middle layer of the skin, its firmness and bounce.
When we are young, collagen production is in full swing, but as we age, production slows down, leading to thinner skin, reduced elasticity and the formation of fine lines. Some skin boosters are designed to encourage fibroblast activity – the cells responsible for producing collagen – which may gradually improve skin firmness and quality.
When to expect results
The time it takes to see results will depend on the type of booster you’ve received. For example, hydration changes may be visible relatively quickly, while collagen remodelling takes weeks to months to occur.
Some boosters combine products. For example, one popular product at the moment combines hyaluronic acid with a formula of amino acids to stimulate collagen and elastin production. The hyaluronic acid provides almost immediate results, while the amino acids slowly work in the background, producing visible results weeks to months later.
Why are there so many different skin boosters?
Skin boosters have been scientifically proven to provide visible results, addressing skin hydration, elasticity and texture. This method of placing microquantities of ingredients evenly in the dermis to nourish the skin from within has become incredibly popular, and far more than a fad. Consequently, research continues, and more products are reaching the market.
Today, the term skin boosters now encompasses a diverse range of products with different ingredients, mechanisms of action and treatment goals. While they share the aim of addressing skin quality, they are not interchangeable, so the best choice depends on factors such as your skin condition, age, concerns and desired outcome.
To find out more about skin boosters and how they may address your skin objectives, call the clinic today on 1300 726 272.
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