As we age, our skin faces new challenges - loss of elasticity, dehydration, and the early signs of fine lines. Skin boosters like Profhilo and Seventy Hyal have become increasingly popular for anyone looking to address these changes with a treatment that enhances the skin’s natural radiance, texture, and hydration. If you’re seeking a solution to rejuvenate tired, dull, or sagging skin, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about skin boosters. What Are Skin Boosters? Skin boosters are injectable treatments designed to deeply hydrate and stimulate the skin. Unlike traditional fillers, which aim to add volume or reshape, skin boosters like Profhilo and Seventy Hyal disperse evenly within the skin and are intended to improve overall skin quality. They deliver hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant, directly into the skin, enhancing hydration, elasticity, and overall glow, without altering facial contours. What Brands Are Available? Some of the most popular skin boosters on the market today include Profhilo, Seventy Hyal, Jalupro, J uvéderm Volite, Restylane Vital, Viscoderm Hydrobooster and Belotero Revive. Each of these products is uniquely formulated to address specific skin needs and can be used in different ways depending on the skin concern. How Do They Work? As we age, changes occur in multiple layers of the face, from the bones, muscles, fat and skin. Within the dermis layer of the skin, the structure and volume of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (including hyaluronic acid) decrease, and so the skin loses its hydration and its elasticity reduces, resulting in a reduction in skin quality. Skin boosters target improvements in skin quality at the level of the dermis. They contain predominantly hyaluronic acid and are injected intradermally  where they  activate fibroblasts, which in turn promote new collagen and elastin formation, as well as encouraging cellular metabolism and reducing oxidative damage. This leads to a clinical outcome of improved skin hydration, elasticity and surface roughness. What Can Skin Boosters Treat? Skin boosters can treat a variety of concerns , making them versatile treatments for those experiencing: • Dull or dehydrated skin • Loss of elasticity • Fine lines and mild wrinkles • Uneven texture • Mild skin laxity Skin boosters provide several benefits , including: • Deep, long-lasting hydration • Improved skin elasticity and firmness • Enhanced glow and radiance • Reduction in fine lines and early signs of ageing • Support for collagen and elastin production These treatments are especially beneficial for the face, neck, and décolletage but can also be used on other areas showing signs of ageing. They are very versatile and suitable for a wide age-range. What Are the Risks of Skin Boosters? Like any injectable treatment, skin boosters carry some potential risks, including mild discomfort, minor bruising, redness, and swelling at the injection sites. These are usually mild and resolve within a few days. Rarely, allergic reactions or infection may occur. Consulting a qualified, experienced practitioner is essential to minimise risks. What Happens During a Treatment? During a skin booster treatment, your practitioner will cleanse your skin and apply a topical anaesthetic if necessary. The treatment itself involves injecting small amounts of the skin booster into targeted areas.They typically require several injection points for optimal results. The process is usually completed within 30 minutes, making it a convenient treatment option. How Often Are They Needed? To start with, most clients undergo an initial course of two to three treatments, spaced about four weeks apart for optimal benefit. After the initial course, maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months can help preserve the results. How Much Do They Cost? The cost of skin boosters can vary, typically ranging from £150 to £500 per session in the UK, depending on the brand and clinic location. Profhilo is generally at the higher end due to it's formulation and effectiveness in collagen stimulation and skin hydration. If you're interested in learning more then to read 'The Use of Injectable Hyaluronic Acid Skin Boosters in Clinical Aesthetics - A Review of the Literature' which I wrote in 2024. Conclusion Skin boosters offer an effective, natural-looking approach to combating the early signs of ageing. They’re an excellent choice for those who want to invest in long-term skin health without drastic changes to their appearance. Rejuvenating, hydrating, and collagen-stimulating - skin boosters are here to help you put your best face forward!

When it comes to skincare, there’s a big difference between products you pick up at the supermarket and those you get from a doctor or dermatologist. You might have heard terms like over-the-counter (OTC), medical-grade, and prescription skincare, but what do they really mean? In this blog post, we will break down the distinctions among these skincare product types, explore their active ingredients, and outline the benefits and results you can expect from each one. Understanding Over-the-Counter (OTC) Skincare Products ✔️ Available at: pharmacies, supermarkets, beauty retailers (e.g. Boots, Sephora) ✔️ Strength: Mild – lower concentrations of active ingredients ✔️ Best for: General skincare, mild concerns ✔️ Examples: Retinol serums from high-street brands, basic vitamin C serums, own brand hyaluronic acid serums. OTC skincare includes products like basic cleansers, moisturisers, and serums featuring vitamin C or retinol that anyone can buy without a prescription. These products contain low concentrations of active ingredients to ensure they’re safe for the general public. While they can be effective over time, they often take longer to show results because they are not as potent. One significant advantage of OTC products is their accessibility and affordability. Diving into Medical-Grade Skincare Also Called Cosmeceuticals or Professional Skincare ✔️ Available at: Clinics, dermatologists, aesthetic practitioners, medical spas, online ✔️ Strength: Higher concentrations than OTC, but still not prescription-only ✔️ Best for: Targeting specific skin concerns like acne, pigmentation, and ageing ✔️ Examples: ZO Skin Health, Obagi, AlumierMD, SkinCeuticals, Dermalogica, retinol creams stronger than OTC but weaker than prescription tretinoin. Medical-grade skincare sits between OTC and prescription skincare. These products often feature higher concentrations of active ingredients, aimed at more targeted treatments, that have been clinically tested to penetrate deeper into the skin compared to OTC products. While you don’t need a prescription, they are usually recommended by skincare professionals who can guide you on the best routine for your skin type. The Power of Prescription Strength Skincare ✔️ Available at: Clinics, dermatologists, prescribed by a doctor ✔️ Strength: The highest potency, regulated as medicine ✔️ Best for: Severe acne, pigmentation, deep wrinkles, rosacea ✔️ Examples: • Tretinoin (Retin-A, the strongest form of topical Vitamin A) – for acne, photoageing, fine lines and wrinkles • Hydroquinone – for pigmentation and melasma • Azelaic acid (15-20%) – for rosacea, acne, and melasma • Topical antibiotics for acne Prescription strength skincare can only be obtained through a licensed healthcare provider. These products contain the most potent active ingredients, ensuring targeted treatment for conditions like severe acne, significant hyperpigmentation, and advanced ageing signs. These products require a doctor’s supervision because they are contraindicated in certain conditions, can cause irritation, peeling, or other side effects if used incorrectly. Prescription tretinoin stands out among retinoids due to its enhanced effectiveness at the cellular level. Research shows that tretinoin can achieve visible results in as little as six weeks for issues like acne and photoageing. This makes it a go-to choice for individuals seeking swift improvements in their skin’s overall tone and texture. Similarly, prescription vitamin C products often have much higher concentrations than OTC or medical-grade versions. These potent formulations can boost collagen production and target deeper pigmentation, leading to rejuvenated skin and diminished age-related signs. Choosing the Right Product for Your Skin Which Type of Skincare Should You Use? • Mild concerns or prevention? OTC skincare is fine. • Want stronger results with scientifically proven ingredients? Medical-grade skincare is the best balance. • Treating acne, severe pigmentation, or signs of ageing? Prescription skincare gives the most dramatic results but must be used under guidance. Closing Thoughts Navigating the skincare landscape can seem daunting, given the vast array of products available. Understanding the differences between OTC, medical-grade, and prescription-strength items is essential for effective skincare. Incorporating the right products into your regimen can yield transformative results, helping you achieve vibrant, healthy skin. No product will work miracles overnight; consistent use, aligned with a sound skincare routine, is vital for maximising effectiveness. If you’re unsure, a consultation with a skincare professional can help you find the right products for your skin goals!

What is Collagen? Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, acting as a key structural component in skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and connective tissues. It provides strength, elasticity, and hydration to our skin while supporting the integrity of joints, ligaments, and even the gut lining. There are 28 recognised types of collagen, but Types I, II, and III are the most prevalent, each with specific roles in the body. Type I is the main collagen found in skin, type II is found in cartilage which provides joint support as well as having a role in gut health and immune function, and type III is found in muscles, arteries, as well as skin. How Much Collagen Do We Lose as We Age? Collagen in the skin is produced by cells cause fibroblasts. Fibroblasts become less active hence reducing the production of collagen as early as our mid-20s. This can be accelerated by smoking, poor nutrition and sun exposure. By the age of 40, we may lose up to 1-1.5% of collagen each year, and women experience an even steeper decline after menopause. This loss contributes to signs of ageing such as wrinkles, sagging skin, joint stiffness, and weaker bones. Why is Collagen Important for Skin Health? Collagen is a critical component of skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness. It helps the skin maintain its structure, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When collagen levels drop, the skin becomes thinner, drier, and more prone to sagging. Boosting collagen can support skin rejuvenation, making it a cornerstone of anti-ageing skincare. Why is Collagen Important for Immune Function, Gut, and Overall Health? Immune function: The amino acids in collagen, particularly glycine and proline, are essential for maintaining healthy tissues and promoting repair after injury. A strong gut lining, which relies on collagen, is key for keeping harmful pathogens at bay, making collagen a crucial player in a healthy immune system. Joint Health: Collagen is a key component of cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints. As collagen levels drop, we may experience joint pain and stiffness. Supplementing with collagen can help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis and improve joint mobility. Gut Health: Collagen supports the gut lining, helping to prevent conditions like leaky gut, which can lead to inflammation and autoimmune diseases. Other Benefits: Collagen also promotes healthy hair and nails, supports muscle mass, and contributes to heart health by strengthening blood vessels. How Can We Boost Our Collagen Levels? Diet Research is currently limited into how much diet can affect collagen levels but consuming foods rich in collagen-boosting nutrients are likely to offer benefits. Incorporate: Bone broth Chicken Oily fish Eggs Citrus fruits or berries (for Vitamin C, which aids collagen synthesis) Leafy greens Beans (contain lysine which is necessary for collagen production)   Supplements Collagen supplements are widely available and can support skin, joints, and gut health. Look for products that contain at least 10,000mg of hydrolysed collagen (collagen protein that has been broken down into smaller pieces) as either a powder or liquid supplement (to aid absorption), and include Vitamin C for optimal absorption. My personal favourite, which I take myself and I recommend to clients, is Totally Derma® , due to it’s wide- ranging benefits on both skin and overall health which is backed by clinical studies. It’s a bovine hydrolysed collagen which includes types I,II and III as well as hyaluronic acid, high levels of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and minerals for collagen production and repair, to improve both the skin and the body’s internal health. It was originally sold as a supplement for improving cartilage and joint health, until its benefits for skin were also noted. Skincare Collagen as a cream is unlikely to penetrate the skin as the molecules are too large to be absorbed, so is not worth the money beyond it perhaps providing some hydrating effects by sitting on the skin. However topical products containing retinol, peptides, or hyaluronic acid do have some evidence that they can stimulate collagen production. Regular use of sunscreen is also vital, as UV exposure breaks down collagen. In Clinic Treatments That Boost Collagen   Microneedling  Microneedling creates micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating the body’s natural healing process and boosting collagen production. Skin Boosters and Polynucleotides  Injectable treatments like Profhilo and polynucleotides hydrate and plump the skin while encouraging collagen and elastin production. Laser Treatments  Fractional lasers promote collagen remodelling by heating the dermis and stimulating new collagen synthesis. Radiofrequency and Ultrasound  Energy-based devices tighten the skin by delivering heat to deeper layers, triggering collagen production over time.   Conclusion  Collagen is much more than a buzzword—it’s a vital protein that keeps us looking and feeling our best. Whether you’re focused on youthful skin, strong joints, or overall wellness, supporting your collagen levels through diet, supplements, skincare, or treatments like microneedling and skin boosters can help you age gracefully. Start taking steps today to invest in your collagen bank and enjoy the benefits for years to come!