What is hyaluronic acid for wrinkles?

Hyaluronic acid is an ally in the fight against wrinkles because it can bind water in the skin. It effectively improves its hydration and increases volume, acting as a natural filler filling in the areas that need it.

As we age, hyaluronic acid decreases in the skin, which is visible on the outside. The skin becomes less firm, loses its elasticity and resilience. Treatments using this substance help improve the skin condition and also alleviate many aging-related issues.

There are various preparations of hyaluronic acid available on the market, which can be divided into two main categories:

• cross-linked,
• non-cross-linked.

Those with non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid are valued for their moisturizing properties, which make the skin more elastic and firm, with the effect lasting from a few days to a month.

On the other hand, cross-linked hyaluronic acid is used as a wrinkle filler, offering longer-lasting results - from 6 to even 18 months. The choice of the right preparation depends on the individual needs of the patient and the expected effects.

Treatment using hyaluronic acid is an excellent solution for those wanting to increase the elasticity and firmness of their skin. This ingredient effectively reduces wrinkles, especially expression lines, giving the skin a younger look. Hyaluronic acid can be administered to individuals who have a deficiency of it in their skin. Its absence is crucial for the proper functioning of skin's water management. Additionally, this substance works great for lip enhancement and scar therapy. 

Preparation before a procedure using hyaluronic acid is not complicated. The first step is a medical consultation, which helps to rule out contraindications and choose the appropriate product. During the meeting, the doctor also assesses the condition of the skin.

Prior to the procedure, it is recommended to avoid anti-inflammatory drugs, such as:

• ibuprofen,
• aspirin,
• other similar medications.

a few days before the procedure, as they may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising after the injection. It is also advisable to refrain from consuming alcohol, which can adversely affect the healing process and lead to swelling.

It is also worth taking care of the skin before the planned procedure. Avoiding:

• aggressive cosmetic procedures,
• excessive sun exposure shortly before the specialist visit,
• other factors that may irritate the skin.

Thanks to proper preparation, the patient experiences greater comfort during the procedure itself, which contributes to achieving optimal aesthetic results and minimizes the risk of unwanted side effects.

Before undergoing a procedure using hyaluronic acid, it is important to have a medical consultation. This allows for a thorough evaluation of the patient's health condition and identification of any contraindications, such as:

• allergies,
• skin problems,
• diseases that may exclude the patient from the procedure.

This enables the selection of the appropriate product, increasing the efficacy of the therapy and minimizing the risk of complications.

During the consultation with the specialist, expectations regarding the procedure can also be discussed, and information on realistic outcomes can be obtained. This is not only the key to achieving optimal aesthetic results but also a guarantee of a safe course of the entire procedure.

The procedure using hyaluronic acid on the face begins with cleansing and disinfecting the skin, as well as applying local anesthesia to make the procedure painless. Then, the specialist injects the preparation into selected areas of the skin using a needle or microcannula. The microcannula, due to its design, reduces the risk of bruising and minimizes damage to blood vessels, making the procedure safer and less invasive. Additionally, hyaluronic acid has a plastic and elastic consistency, allowing it to precisely target areas with wrinkles, furrows, or volume loss. After the procedure, the skin regains firmness and elasticity, and becomes softer to the touch.

The treatment using hyaluronic acid brings many benefits to the skin:

• quickly smoothes wrinkles, giving the skin a youthful and radiant appearance,
• significantly improves the skin's hydration level, resulting in greater elasticity and firmness,
• improves the skin volume in the areas of application.

Cross-linked hyaluronic acid perfectly models specific facial areas, while non-cross-linked focuses mainly on intensive hydration. The full effects of the treatment are visible after about 2 weeks, when the acid integrates well with the tissues.

Due to its ability to bind water, the skin becomes more tightened and elastic. It is also worth noting the longevity of the effects - they are visible from several months to up to a year and a half. The final duration, however, depends on the type of preparation used, as well as the individual characteristics of the patient.

The results of using hyaluronic acid for filling wrinkles usually last from 6 months to a year, but sometimes they can be visible for even 18 months. The lifestyle, hydration, cosmetics used, and the regularity of the procedure have a significant impact on this period. Regular treatments allow for maintaining a youthful appearance and proper skin hydration for a longer time.

The cost of hyaluronic acid wrinkle filling treatment is an individual matter. It depends on the amount of product used, the application area, the experience of the doctor, and the reputation of the clinic. A more favorable price is usually offered for a series of treatments. The entire procedure typically lasts from 30 to 60 minutes, and its effects last for a period of 6 to 12 months. Before making a decision, it is advisable to gather information about the costs and available options from the chosen specialist.

The use of hyaluronic acid requires consideration of certain contraindications before starting the treatment. This therapy is not recommended for individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases, as it may worsen their health. Similarly, pregnant and breastfeeding women should refrain from this solution due to a lack of sufficient research on its impact on the fetus and infant.

In addition, patients prone to developing hypertrophic scars must exercise special caution, as there is a risk of their appearance after the use of the acid. Skin inflammations also constitute a contraindication, as they can lead to exacerbation of infections or irritations. Individuals showing sensitivity to this substance should avoid it to prevent allergic reactions.

Before commencing any procedure, the specialist is obliged to thoroughly assess the patient's health condition. This is extremely important to avoid complications and ensure safety during the treatment.

After applying hyaluronic acid, minor side effects may occur, such as:

• bruising,
• swelling,
• redness.

These effects usually subside on their own after a few days. This procedure is commonly considered safe and minimally invasive. Nevertheless, patients should be aware of possible inconveniences before the procedure, as well as skin healing post-procedure. Additionally, it is crucial to follow postoperative instructions to minimize the risk of potential complications.

1. Noszczyk M., Cosmetic and Medical Cosmetology, Medical Publishing House PZWL, Warsaw 2019.
2. Wasiluk M., Aesthetic Medicine Unveiled, Medical Publishing House PZWL, Warsaw 2016.
3. Korzeniowska K., Pawlaczyk M., Hyaluronic Acid - Not Just a Cosmetic, "Contemporary Pharmacy", 2014;7, pp. 72-73.