Why Are Biostimulators Replacing Dermal Fillers in Aesthetic Treatments?

By Roz Garde
Lotus Medical, Greystones
Proud DANAI Member since 2010

Dermal fillers have long been a go-to solution for achieving instant volume and fullness in the skin. While effective, over time, the limitations of fillers have become increasingly evident—namely, the risk of overfilling, which can result in an unnatural or exaggerated appearance. This is where biostimulators are stepping in to transform the aesthetic landscape.

What Are Biostimulators?

Unlike traditional fillers that simply replace lost volume, biostimulators take a more dynamic approach by encouraging your skin to produce its own collagen. This process, known as neocollagenesis, results in healthier, thicker skin over time. Thick, healthy skin is naturally more resilient to wrinkles and other signs of aging, making biostimulators a popular choice for those looking to age gracefully.

Collagen loss becomes particularly rapid during perimenopause and menopause, making it crucial to find treatments that support skin health during this time. While topical treatments like Vitamin A or retinol creams can help stimulate collagen, injectable biostimulators are emerging as the gold standard in proactive skincare.

How Do Biostimulators Work?

Biostimulators initiate a controlled inflammation response in the skin, which in turn stimulates the production of collagen. Over time, this leads to thicker, more youthful-looking skin. These treatments do not provide instant results like fillers, but their gradual, natural effect makes them a preferred option for patients seeking subtle, long-term improvements.

Popular Biostimulators and Collagen Boosters

There are now a variety of biostimulatory treatments available, each suited to different needs:

●  Polynucleotides: Products like PhilArt stimulate cell regeneration and promote collagen production.

●  Calcium-based fillers: Radiesse, when hyper-diluted, can be spread over larger areas to stimulate collagen.

●  Polycaprolactone (PCL): Found in Ellansé, this option combines volume creation with collagen stimulation.

●  Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA): Sculptra is a well-known example, designed to evenly distribute under the skin to promote collagen production.

●  Threads and microneedling: These mechanical techniques also encourage natural collagen production and can be used in combination with injectables.

The Rise of Exosomes and PRP

The “new kid on the block” in aesthetic medicine is exosome-based treatments. These include natural options like Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) or Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF), where a small sample of your blood is spun in a centrifuge, and the platelet-rich portion is injected back into your skin. This encourages collagen production and repairs damaged tissue. Companies like Regen Labs and Platform 20 are leading the way in PRP technology.

Why Biostimulators Are Here to Stay

Biostimulators address a growing demand for treatments that look and feel natural. While dermal fillers are still effective for instant volume, biostimulators support long-term skin health by working with the body’s natural processes.

Educating patients on the benefits of biostimulators is key. Lifestyle choices—like avoiding smoking, limiting sugar and alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying active—remain essential for preserving collagen. However, combining these habits with biostimulating treatments offers a powerful way to enhance skin health and maintain a youthful appearance.

If you’re considering biostimulators, consulting with a qualified Dermatology Aesthetic Nurse is the best place to start. These specialists can recommend the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your skin’s unique needs.

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