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!