Juvaderm is a new treatment for wrinklwe that has been called "the next in thing" in wrinkle fighters. Like Botox, it promises to be increasingly popular with baby boomers. However, unlike Botox, which is used for lwrinkles from moving your muscles, this is used for creases and furrows at rest. It is the latest in advanced hyaluronic acid (HA) treatments. What is HA? HA is a substance already found in the body and is used to replace areas of the face where volume and fullness of the skin have been lost.

What is hyaluronic acid (HA)? Hyaluronic acid is already found as a natural substance in the body and is used for replenishing areas of the face where volume and fullness of the skin have been lost.

Hyaluronic Acid Is A Space Filler For The Skin

Hyaluronic acid in the body fills spaces between collagen and elastin fibers in the skin and is present in all living tissues. It acts like jello and can suspend these elements in it, just like jello can suspend fruit in a mold. It attracts and binds water, hydrating the skin and providing smoothness along with volume. When hyaluronic acid is diminished, as in aging, the result is a loss of skin volume, and then folds and wrinkles appear.

Non-Animal in Origin

Juvaderm is a biosynthetic and is non-animal in origin. this makes allergic reactions very unlikely. No testing is required prior to admission. As a result, Juvederm is safe and effective for all types and colors of skin.

But Juvederm is also crosslinked, making it less likely to enzymatic breakdown. As a result it lasts much longer than the body's HA, which must be replaced daily.

Differences Between Juvederm and Other Fillers

The primary difference between Juvederm and other hyaluronic acids (HA's) is that Juvederm has a higher concentration of the hyaluronic acid than other fillers. The formula used to produce Juvederm is said to result in it being smoother than other gels in popular use. Juvederm is completely transparent, while the other gels use a suspension process, and particles can be seen with the naked eye. It looks like a clear jello.

A Unique Combination?

While it contains more HA and is smoother, studies have yet to prove it is better or longer lasting than other HA's. It's main competition ids Restylane, a substance made by Q-Med of Sweden. Restylane has been around for longer and it is the number filler in the world.

Facial Wrinkles and Folds Beware

Juvederm comes in two density formulations: Juvederm Ultra for average depth depressions and wrinkles, and Juvederm Ultra Plus which gives deeper and heavier volume. Time will tell whether it will compete with other products.

Copyright (c) 2007 Barry Lycka