The new kid on the block in the realm of aesthetic medicine is none other than Profhilo. Named the ‘time-reversing injection’ in Chinese, it is a treatment for rejuvenating and hydrating the skin with the active ingredient hyaluronic acid.
In fact, Profhilo has been around since 2015, but for several years, its use has been limited to Europe. The much-raved-about injectable treatment has finally reached our shores of Singapore last year, and is quickly picking up steam as a popular choice of aesthetic treatment here as well.
What exactly is this new treatment all about, and how does it work? In this article, we give you an overview of all you need to know about Profhilo.
What is Profhilo?
Profhilo is an injectable treatment that delivers hyaluronic acid to the layers underneath the skin. Hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain moisture, giving it a more glowing, dewy appearance. Profhilo is also able to promote the production of elastin and collagen, which are crucial for tightening and firming up the skin. In a nutshell, Profhilo is used to improve the quality and appearance of the skin, as opposed to adding volume like dermal fillers do.
Although Profhilo’s main ingredient makes it share commonalities with dermal fillers and skinboosters, it has to be noted that the hyaluronic acid in Profhilo is significantly different. First up, the concentration of hyaluronic acid in Profhilo is about 5 times more than your average skinbooster, making it the injectable with the highest hyaluronic acid content in the market today!
Secondly, the chemical structure of hyaluronic acid in Profhilo is also distinct from that of other treatments. Most hyaluronic acids in medicine contain a chemical cross-linking agent, called 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE), which is of synthetic origins. Hyaluronic acid in Profhilo, on the other hand, is thermally cross-linked to form a type of molecule called Hybrid Cooperative Complex (HCC).
The result of this is the ability of Profhilo to ‘bio-remodel’ the skin tissue, improving hydration and skin firmness through collagen production. This also allows hyaluronic acids of high and low molecular weight to link together, allowing them to release slowly and dissipate evenly under the skin.
What effects should you expect from Profhilo?
Profhilo is able to hydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, leading to bouncier, more radiant, and more youthful-looking skin. The improvements are subtle yet noticeable – definitely not as significant as the effects from a facelift, but ideal for those looking for a natural-looking skin rejuvenation.
Most people will observe hydration improvements to their skin at about 4 weeks, with the full effects like skin tightening taking up to 12 weeks after treatment to show.
How often should Profhilo be done?
The standard treatment schedule for Profhilo is an initial 2 treatments spaced one month apart. Those with saggier skin who wish to see better results may opt for a third session one month after.
Thereafter, the treatment may be repeated after 6-12 months later to maintain the effects of Profhilo.
What areas can Profhilo treat?
Profhilo is generally safe for use on both the face and body, although it is most commonly used to treat areas like the cheeks and neck. Other areas that doctors have used Profhilo on include:
- forehead
- eye area
- cheeks
- chin
- neck
- arms/hands
- knees
- chest and abdomen
- depressed acne scars
What is the process for Profhilo like?
The key difference when it comes to Profhilo is the number of injection sites required. With other skinboosters, multiple injections at various points are usually needed, at very specific points around the face. However, with Profhilo, the number of injection sites is streamlined to five on either side of the face and neck.
Coined the Bio Aesthetic Points, these five areas of the face are chosen due to their receptiveness and absence of large, critical vessels and nerve branches. Under the BAP Technique, the risks are thus minimised and the favourable effects maximised.
After each round of treatment, you can expect some raised bumps at the injection points, with the possibility of bruising or soreness. Generally, these side effects are mild, and fade quickly. There is minimal downtime with the Profhilo treatment, and most people return to their usual activities right after. The only thing you would need to take note of is to avoid strenuous physical activity and alcohol consumption for 24 hours after.
Who is Profhilo suitable for?
So, you’ve heard so many great things about Profhilo – but is it for you?
Profhilo is great for anyone with signs of ageing skin looking to hydrate, tighten, and improve the quality of their skin. It is most effective for mild to moderate cases of skin laxity and fine lines.
The treatment is also suitable for men’s thicker skin, without the effect of softening their masculine features.
Getting Profhilo in Singapore
As with all medical treatments, the doctor you choose to carry out your treatment is very crucial. Choosing an unqualified practitioner can mean wasting your money on a treatment that has no or ill effects, and can even endanger your health and life.
Profhilo is a relatively new procedure in Singapore, so not many clinics offer it as of now. Before you decide to undergo Profhilo, ensure you do your background checks on the doctor’s qualifications to verify that they are trained to administer this treatment.
Cost of Profhilo in Singapore
You should also be aware of the costs of Profhilo before you commit to the 2 treatment sessions. At the clinics offering it in Singapore, the prices are about $1200 and up per session. Your aesthetic doctor may also recommend a personalised treatment plan for you using Profhilo in conjunction with other treatments.
