Is there a such thing as just pure hyaluronic acid for fillers?

Question

My family doctor does fillers. When I ask what brand he uses... he says it's not a brand just pure hyaluronic acid.

Maria Chuquer, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most common type of fillers utilized in cosmetic medicine. With that being said there are several brands produced by different companies utilizing different technologies. The goal is to achieve certain properties tailored for each area of the face or desired effects. As an example, fillers used in bony areas like jaw and cheek are "harder" than the ones used for under eye for example.

Rosa B. Lipin, MD · Answer

That is a bit of a confusing answer to a straightforward question.
Most HA fillers on the market have Lidocaine mixed with the HA in the syringe. Major brands in the US are: Restylane, Juvederm, Belotero, etc.
There are other fillers on the market, that are not composed of Hyaluronic Acid, like Radiesse and Bellafill. Additionally, there is Sculpta, which enhances collagen stimulation but isn't really a filler.

Charles Cheng, MD · Answer

It all depends on the purpose and location of filler use.
In general, there is always a brand for a Health Canada approved filler. Under one brand there maybe different classes of fillers. Everything is labeled. You have the right to know. The physician is required to record the exact material used as well as the expiry date and lot number of the product used. The physician should be proud to tell you what they are using.
On the topic of "pure". That's suspect. Most of the higher concentrations used as fillers are generally 25mg/ml. That is only 2.5% hyaluronic acid. This information is readily available.
Most hyaluronic acid fillers nowadays are crosslinked for longevity. That is to make the body longer to metabolize the product, giving you a longer result. Very few or percentage are free hyaluronic acid chains unless used for skin quality injections or topical applications.
Given the limited information you received, it may a good idea to get a second opinion or at least clarify with your provider.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

He sounds quite fishy in what your doctor tells you. Pure hyaluronic acid means that it has not been cross-linked or stabilised to have any longevity whatsoever. Such products are not good as fillers because they simply disappear in a very short period of time, approximately two weeks. Pure hyaluronic acid is usually used for treatment of problem knees or other joints where it is being injected to provide some cushioning. Go to someone who specialises in using brand-name fillers. I hope this helps and good luck from New York City Plastic Surgery

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi there,

I would recommend a little more information that that.  Two things... always use FDA approved products and always seek an expert injector.

Best of luck!

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

No reputable injector would ever use "pure Hyaluronic acid" for injection. "Pure hyaluronic acid" is not cross linked and, as such, a normal compound found in the body. If injected, the body will use it just like natural hyaluronic acid, so it will last only a very short time. That is why all manufacturers go to extraordinary lengths to cross link the hyaluronic acid to hide from the body's systems so it will last. Make sure you choose an expert who uses a reputable brand of filler. You are not going to find such an expert in your "family doctor."

Is there a such thing as just pure hyaluronic acid for fillers?

Answers (6)

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