Profhilo: what to know

Profhilo is an injectable that is making waves in the cosmetic industry. In this article Dr Rovshan Izamov, a consultant aesthetic dermatologist, explains the science behind Profhilo, and how it is used to get stunning results.

What is Profhilo?

Profhilo is an alternative to Botox and dermal filler injectables that work like a super moisturiser. Rather than the paralysis of muscles from Botox, and the volume addition of dermal fillers, injections of Profhilo serve to give the skin a ‘glow’ by boosting the collagen under the skin, which provides structure and support for the soft tissues like skin and muscles.

How does Profhilo work?

Profhilo is made of hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring sugar molecule that is found in the skin. As we age, the production of hyaluronic acid lessens, leading to visible signs associated with ageing such as sagging and dullness. When injected, it helps to retain moisture in the skin and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, overall having the effect of improving visual plumpness and firmness.

Profhilo is not a treatment that reverses ageing. Rather, it maintains the healthy condition of the skin as a ‘boost’ by binding with and augmenting the pre-existing hyaluronic acid in the skin. But an added benefit of Profhilo is that the substance that is injected already exists within the body, so there is little risk of a negative reaction or bad results such as asymmetry and allergy.

What happens during a Profhilo procedure?

Profhilo is injected into ten points across the face – in front of the ears, in the cheeks, the jaws, and the lower lips. It is administered in two sessions, which are spaced out with at least a month between them. This allows the skin time to adjust and the hyaluronic acid to settle between sessions. Afterwards, touch-ups can be done every six or so months. There may be swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection sites but they will fade within a day or two.

Profhilo can only be injected by accredited aestheticians and dermatologists as injections that are incorrectly placed can cause nerve damage.

After a session, it is recommended to avoid wearing make-up and touching the face for at least 12 hours. For up to two days after the session, patients should not drink alcohol and partake in intensive exercise.