Profhilo® is a widely discussed injectable hyaluronic acid treatment and is often compared to biostimulators such as Sculptra, Radiesse, or other collagen stimulating injections.
This comparison can be confusing, particularly for patients exploring non-surgical anti-ageing treatments for the first time. While both approaches aim to improve skin quality and visible signs of ageing, they work in fundamentally different ways.
This article from Dr Michael O’Gorman explains how Profhilo differs from true biostimulators, what each treatment does best, and how suitability is determined.
Understanding Profhilo
Profhilo is best described as a bio-remodelling injectable, rather than a volumising filler or a true biostimulator. It contains one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid (HA) available in injectable form and is composed of high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid complexes.
This free-flowing hyaluronic acid spreads in a three-dimensional, multi-directional pattern, moving both horizontally and vertically through the skin. Its flowability is often likened to liquid honey, allowing even distribution without adding volume.
Profhilo provides intense hydration, improves skin quality, supports the health of the underlying fat layer, and activates receptors involved in collagen and elastin production, without triggering a foreign body response.
Learn About Biostimulators
Biostimulators, also referred to as collagen stimulating injections, are injectable therapies designed to improve skin firmness, structure, and long-term support by stimulating the body’s natural production of collagen and elastin.
Unlike skin boosters or hydrating treatments, biostimulators work by triggering a controlled foreign body response to the injected material. This response encourages gradual collagen formation around the product, leading to improved skin thickness, firmness, and subtle volume restoration over time.
These treatments are not primarily hydrating and are used to address structural ageing, rather than surface skin quality alone.
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Which Biostimulator Is Right for Me?
Different collagen stimulators suit different anatomical areas and ageing concerns. These treatments are distinct from Profhilo and should always be selected following medical consultation.
Sculptra – Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA)
Sculptra is a PLLA-based biostimulator that works by gradually stimulating collagen production through a foreign body reaction. It is commonly used to address facial volume loss, skin laxity, and reduced firmness. Results develop slowly over several months and can last up to two years, making it suitable for patients seeking long-term structural improvement rather than hydration.
Radiesse – Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
Radiesse is a CaHA-based biostimulator that provides both immediate support and longer-term collagen stimulation. It is frequently used for areas such as the jawline, cheeks, and hands. As the gel carrier is absorbed, collagen production continues, improving firmness and contour. Radiesse is best suited for patients with more advanced structural ageing.
Ellansé – Polycaprolactone
Ellansé is a polycaprolactone biostimulator designed to stimulate collagen over an extended period. It offers gradual improvements in skin firmness and structure, with longevity depending on the formulation used. Ellansé is appropriate for carefully selected patients with stable facial anatomy and clear long-term treatment goals.
Is Profhilo a Biostimulator?
No. Profhilo is not a true biostimulator.
While it supports collagen and elastin activity, it does not do so via a foreign body reaction, which defines biostimulators. Instead, Profhilo sits in its own category known as bioremodelling. Its primary effects are hydration, tissue health, and improvement in skin quality, rather than structural collagen build-up. Understanding this distinction helps guide realistic expectations and appropriate treatment choice.
What Are the Differences Between Profhilo and Biostimulators?
Although both treatments aim to rejuvenate the skin, they differ significantly in mechanism and outcome.
|
Feature |
Profhilo |
Biostimulators |
|
Main Ingredient |
Free-flowing hyaluronic acid with multiple molecular weights |
PLLA or CaHA triggering a foreign body response |
|
Treatment Areas |
Face, neck, décolletage, hands |
Face, jawline, temples, buttocks, arms, thighs |
|
Results |
Improves hydration, elasticity, glow, and tissue health |
Improves firmness, structure, and collagen density |
|
Speed of Results |
Noticeable after two sessions, four weeks apart |
Gradual results over three to six months |
|
Longevity |
Approximately six to nine months |
Typically eighteen to twenty-four months |
|
Best For |
Fine lines, dullness, early ageing, crepey skin, poor skin quality |
Structural ageing, laxity, volume loss |
Profhilo Treatment Details
Profhilo treatments start from £450 (GBP). A standard course usually involves two sessions, spaced four weeks apart.
Profhilo can be used to improve:
- Dry skin
- Aged skin
- Photo-damaged skin
- Fine lines
- Crepey skin
- Sagging skin
- Scarred skin
- Rosacea-prone skin
Bruising is possible but uncommon, and infection is exceedingly rare when appropriate antiseptic techniques are used. It is recommended to allow at least two weeks between Profhilo and other injectable treatments.
For aftercare, Profhilo Haenkenium® cream is often recommended. It contains high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid with antioxidant properties and may be used both post-treatment and as part of an ongoing skincare routine.
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Collagen Stimulating Injections: Treatment Overview
Collagen stimulating injections typically start from £800 (GBP). These treatments are injected beneath the skin in areas of fat loss to encourage gradual collagen formation.
They may be used for:
- Facial volume restoration
- Hollow temples
- Rejuvenation of hands
- Rejuvenation of elbows
- Rejuvenation of knees
While these treatments do not correct the underlying cause of fat loss, they can significantly improve the appearance by increasing skin thickness and structural support over time.
What Is the Best Clinic for Profhilo in London?
Choosing the right clinic for Profhilo in London requires a focus on medical expertise, safety, and appropriate treatment planning.
Dr Michael O’Gorman, an experienced aesthetic doctor and private GP in Marylebone, is known for his conservative, medically led approach to bioremodelling treatments. Profhilo is used to improve skin hydration, quality, and subtle rejuvenation, rather than volume or structure. Each treatment plan is guided by detailed consultation to ensure suitability and long-term skin health.
London Clinic Details
- Address: 19 Wimpole Street, Marylebone, London W1G 8GE
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM
- Booking: Consultations and quotes are available upon request. Visit the clinic website or call +447588385133 to schedule your polynucleotide appointment in London.
