Juvaderm: Understanding this Injectable Therapy


by Barry Lycka - Date: 2007-04-18 - Word Count: 394 Share This!

Copyright © 2007 Barry Lycka

Juvaderm is a new cosmetic facial filler that has been called "the next generation" of wrinkle busters. Unlike Botox, which is used for lines produced by muscle contraction, this is used for lines at rest. It is the latest stage in advances made with hyaluronic technology.

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. Chances of allergic reactions are very low because of this. No testing is required prior to admission. Results are 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 results 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 in smoother, studies have yet to prove it is better or longer lastinfg 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.


Related Tags: botox, wrinkles, fillers, wrinkle treatments

Barry A. S. Lycka is one of North America's foremost authorities on cosmetic, skin cancer, reconstructive and laser surgery of the skin. He is founder of The Ethical Cosmetic Surgery Association and adviisor to the spa industry Your Article Search Directory : Find in Articles

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