What are collagen-stimulating biostimulators? What are their benefits? How many types are there? 

What are collagen-stimulating biostimulators? What are their benefits? How many types are there? 

As we age, our bodies gradually produce less collagen, resulting in a loss of skin elasticity and firmness. This leads to noticeable signs on the face, such as wrinkles, deep lines, sagging, and dryness. Biostimulators, a group of collagen-stimulating substances, have become a popular choice in the beauty industry. They help restore the skin's structure from within, stimulate new collagen production, and give the skin a naturally youthful appearance. Today, Romrawin Clinic will introduce you to collagen-stimulating substances: what they are, how they work, the different types, and available products. Find the answers in this article!

 

Are collagen-stimulating biostimulators really effective? How many types are there? (Update)

 

 

Getting to know "collagen".

Collagen is a long-chain protein found in the human body, accounting for approximately 30% of all proteins. It is particularly abundant in the skin, bones, tendons, hair, nails, and connective tissue. Collagen acts like glue, holding cells together and providing spring-like elasticity to strengthen, maintain elasticity, and firm the skin's structure. Furthermore, collagen is capable of repairing and regenerating various tissues in the body.

However, as we age, the body's collagen production decreases by an average of 1-2% per year, starting from the age of 20 onwards. This causes noticeable changes in the skin, such as wrinkles, sagging skin, enlarged pores, and dryness. Therefore, increasing collagen is one option for skin care and rejuvenation. This can be done in several ways, including taking supplements, using skincare products, or even injecting collagen-stimulating substances directly into the skin. This helps maintain firmness, elasticity, and a youthful appearance, and delays the appearance of new skin problems in the future.

 

What are collagen-stimulating biostimulators?

Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are substances used to restore skin affected by aging, such as wrinkles, deep lines, sagging, dryness, and loss of firmness. Their primary function is to stimulate the body's natural production of collagen and elastin through the action of fibroblast cells, replacing collagen lost due to aging. When skin's collagen is properly stimulated, it becomes firmer, more elastic, smoother, and looks naturally younger. 

Currently, there are many brands of collagen-stimulating products available, each with different properties and advantages. These include Radiesse, Sculptra, Ultracol, Gouri, and Juvelook. They offer long-lasting and sustainable results, making them suitable for those seeking long-term changes without frequent repeat injections. 

 

How do collagen-stimulating biostimulators work?

The process by which collagen-stimulating agents work is that when injected into the skin, they stimulate the activity of fibroblast cells, which are key cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin beneath the skin. This stimulation of fibroblast cells then triggers the gradual creation of new collagen fibers. This newly created collagen replaces and fills the gaps under the skin where collagen has been lost due to aging, resulting in firmer, more elastic, plump, and stronger skin structure in the long term. 

 

 

How many types of collagen-stimulating biostimulators are there?

Currently, there are various types of collagen stimulants available as biostimulators. The most commonly used collagen stimulants are as follows:

• CaHA (Calcium Hydroxylapatite) collagen stimulant

CaHA (Calcium Hydroxylapatite) , a collagen-stimulating agent , is a synthetic substance designed to mimic the mineral composition of human bone and teeth. It forms uniformly spherical microspheres with particle sizes of 25-45 microns. CaHA directly stimulates fibroblast cells to produce new collagen and elastin fibers, bypassing the inflammatory process in the body. This increases five essential skin components: Collagen Type 1, Collagen Type 3, Elastin, Proteoglycan, and Angiogenesis, resulting in healthier, younger-looking , and firmer skin. After use, CaHA is naturally broken down and does not accumulate in the body.

• Collagen stimulants of the type PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid)

PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid), a collagen stimulant , is a biostimulator derived from plants. It's a medical-grade material that is biodegradable and leaves no residue in the body. PLLA works by stimulating fibroblast cells to produce new collagen and elastin fibers through the action of white blood cells or the body's immune system. This results in an increase in Collagen Type 1, improving skin elasticity, firmness, and strength from within, without causing long-term harm.

• Collagen stimulants of the type PDO (Polydioxanone)

PDO (Polydioxanone), a collagen-stimulating agent , is a synthetic polymer developed from traditional PDO sutures, which are biodegradable medical sutures that leave no residue in the body. Through nanotechnology, it is produced in microsphere form, transforming into a white, water-soluble powder. This PDO works by stimulating fibroblast cells to produce new collagen and elastin fibers, via the action of white blood cells or the body's immune system. This effectively increases Collagen Type 1 and Collagen Type 3 without long-term side effects.

• Collagen stimulants of the type PCL (Polycaprolactone)

PCL (Polycaprolactone) , a collagen-stimulating agent , is a synthetic, semi-crystalline polymer. It's a biodegradable medical suture that leaves no residue in the body. Developed using CESABP technology, it's now available in a fully liquid form, free of microparticles, eliminating the need for pre-dissolution. PCL works by stimulating fibroblast cells to produce new collagen and elastin fibers, resulting in firmer, tighter, and stronger skin from within, without harmful side effects.

• Collagen stimulants of the type PDLLA (Poly-D,L-Lactic Acid)

PDLLA (Poly-D, L-Lactic Acid), a collagen-stimulating agent , belongs to the biostimulator group. It's a synthetic polymer derived from natural sources, developed from biodegradable polymers. The combination of D-form and L-form structures allows PDLLA to adhere well to the skin. It exists as porous, spherical particles similar to a sponge, and is naturally biodegradable, leaving no residue in the body. PDLLA works by stimulating fibroblast cells to produce new collagen and elastin fibers through the action of white blood cells or the body's immune system. This leads to an increase in Collagen Type 1, resulting in firmer, smoother skin and a reduction in wrinkles and deep lines effectively, without causing lumps after injection.

 

 

Which brand of collagen stimulant biostimulator is good?

Currently, there are many brands of collagen-stimulating biostimulators available. The most popular brands are as follows:

• Radiesse

Radiesse is a collagen-stimulating biostimulator containing CaHA (Calcium Hydroxylapatite) and CMC (Carboxymethylcellulose). Developed and manufactured by Merz Aesthetics, it has seen global usage of over 15 million syringes and is supported by over 250 published research papers. It has also been approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2006. Radiesse is known for filling wrinkles and deep lines, adding volume to the skin, and stimulating natural collagen production. It is suitable for injection in the cheeks, nasolabial folds, temples, jawline, and back of the hands. The effects of Radiesse typically last up to two years, depending on skin condition and post-injection care.

• sculptra

Sculptra is a collagen-stimulating biostimulator containing PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid), CMC (Carboxymethylcellulose), and Mannitol. Developed and manufactured by Galderma Laboratories, LP, it is backed by over 50 published research papers and was the world's first collagen stimulant approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1999. Sculptra excels in skin tightening, restoring aging skin structure, and gradually stimulating new collagen production. It is suitable for injection in the cheeks, temples, and jawline. The effects of Sculptra typically last up to two years, depending on skin condition and post-injection care.

• Ultracol

Ultracol is a collagen-stimulating biostimulator containing PDO (Polydioxanone) and CMC (Carboxymethylcellulose). It was developed and manufactured by Ultra V Medical Aesthetic in collaboration with Seoul University Hospital and Chung-Ang University Hospital, and is also FDA-approved. Ultracol is known for increasing skin density, brightening skin tone, reducing fine lines, and stimulating collagen production from within. It 's suitable for injection under the eyes, on the cheeks, temples, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines. The effects of Ultracol typically last 6-8 months, depending on skin condition and post-injection care.

• Gouri

Gouri is a collagen-stimulating biostimulator containing PCL (Polycaprolactone) , developed and manufactured by DEXLEVO and approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Gouri is known for reducing wrinkles and deep lines, increasing skin density, improving skin quality, and stimulating new collagen production for a natural-looking result. It is suitable for injection into the face, neck, and back of the hands. The effects of Gouri typically last up to one year, depending on skin condition and post-injection care.

• Juvelook

Juvelook is a hybrid biostimulator that uses PDLLA (Poly-D, L-Lactic Acid) and Hyaluronic Acid (HA) as components. Developed and manufactured by Huons, it is also approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Juvelook is known for its ability to tighten pores, reduce wrinkles, brighten skin tone, and stimulate collagen production from within. It is suitable for injection in the forehead, under the eyes, nasolabial folds, and neck. The effects of Juvelook typically last up to 2 years , depending on skin condition and post-injection care.

 

What are the properties of collagen-stimulating biostimulators?

Each type of collagen-stimulating biostimulator has different properties and advantages, depending on several factors. However, the general benefits of collagen-stimulating injections include the following:

• Collagen biostimulators help stimulate collagen and elastin production through natural processes.
• Collagen-stimulating biostimulators help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and other facial lines.
• Collagen-stimulating biostimulators help to lift sagging skin, restoring firmness and tightness.
• Collagen stimulators (biostimulators) help restore and support the skin's structure, keeping it strong.
• Collagen-stimulating agents (biostimulators) help increase skin density, giving the skin volume and a plump appearance.
• Collagen biostimulators help increase elasticity, making the skin look younger from within.
• Collagen-stimulating biostimulators help tighten pores and fill in acne scars, resulting in smoother skin.
• Collagen-stimulating biostimulators help increase hydration, making the skin look healthy, plump, and improving makeup longevity.
• Collagen biostimulators help to even out skin tone and brighten the complexion, reducing skin dullness.
• Collagen biostimulators help to slow down and prevent premature skin aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging.

 

 

Who is a collagen stimulant biostimulator suitable for?

• Collagen stimulating biostimulators are suitable for those with wrinkles, deep lines, and fine lines on the face.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are suitable for those with sagging, loose, and less firm skin.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are suitable for individuals who experience collagen deficiency due to aging.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are suitable for those with loose, lackluster skin. 
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are suitable for individuals with weak skin structure.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are suitable for those with skin that has lost elasticity and looks older than their age.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are suitable for those with dry, dull, and dehydrated skin.
• Collagen stimulating biostimulators are suitable for those with enlarged pores and loose pores.
• Collagen stimulating agents (biostimulators) are suitable for those with acne scars, blemishes, and uneven skin texture.
• Collagen stimulating biostimulators are suitable for those with dull skin and uneven skin tone.
• Collagen biostimulators are suitable for those who want to slow down the aging process of their skin.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are suitable for those who want long-term skin care.

Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, it is advisable to consult a doctor and provide them with a detailed medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, allergies, current treatments, and medications you are currently taking.

 

Who is a collagen-stimulating biostimulator not suitable for?

• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are not suitable for pregnant women.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are not suitable for women who are breastfeeding.
• Collagen stimulants Biostimulators are not suitable for people with easy bleeding problems.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are not suitable for individuals with a history of allergic reactions to collagen stimulants.
• Collagen stimulants (biostimulators) are not suitable for individuals with skin inflammation or infection at the injection site. 
• Collagen biostimulators are not suitable for those who desire quick and noticeable results. 

Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, it is advisable to consult a doctor and provide them with a detailed medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, allergies, current treatments, and medications you are currently taking.

 

How to prepare before receiving a collagen-stimulating biostimulator.

• Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, it is advisable to consult a knowledgeable and experienced doctor to assess your skin problems prior to the injection.
• Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, refrain from taking supplements or medications that affect blood clotting.
• Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, refrain from consuming alcohol and smoking. 
• Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, refrain from undergoing treatments, laser procedures, scrubs, exfoliation, and waxing.
• Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, refrain from using products or skincare items that contain exfoliating ingredients.
• Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, avoid strenuous exercise and activities that increase blood circulation.
• Before receiving collagen-stimulating injections, ensure you get enough rest and drink plenty of water.

 

How to care for yourself after receiving a collagen-stimulating biostimulator injection.

• After receiving collagen-stimulating injections, refrain from using cosmetics and applying makeup to the injection area.
• After collagen-stimulating injections, avoid touching or massaging the injection site vigorously.
• After collagen-stimulating injections, avoid exposure to heat and strong sunlight. 
• After receiving collagen-stimulating injections, refrain from consuming alcohol and smoking. 
• After collagen-stimulating injections, refrain from treatments, laser procedures, scrubs, and waxing.
• After collagen-stimulating injections, refrain from using products or skincare items that contain exfoliating ingredients.
• After collagen-stimulating injections, avoid strenuous exercise and activities that increase blood circulation.
• After receiving collagen-stimulating injections, you should drink water regularly, at least 1.5 – 2 liters per day.

 

 

The results after injecting a collagen-stimulating biostimulator.

• Collagen stimulants help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and deep lines.
• Collagen stimulants help to firm and tighten the skin.
• Collagen stimulants help to make the skin firm, plump, and voluminous.
• Collagen stimulants help to make the skin smoother and more refined.
• Collagen stimulants help to make the skin strong and elastic.
• Collagen-stimulating agents help keep skin moisturized, plump, and radiant.
• Collagen stimulants help to brighten the skin and even out skin tone.
• Collagen stimulants help tighten pores and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
• Collagen-stimulating agents help promote healthy, youthful-looking skin.

 

Are collagen-stimulating biostimulators dangerous?

Collagen stimulants in the biostimulator group, such as CaHA, PLLA, PDO, PCL, and PDLLA, are bioavailable and well-compatible by the body. Therefore, they pose no risk when injected by a knowledgeable and experienced physician in a standard clinic. Furthermore, it is advisable to use collagen stimulating products approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA), such as Sculptra, Radiesse, Ultracol, Gouri, or Juvelook.

 

What are the side effects of collagen-stimulating biostimulators?

Side effects from collagen-stimulating injections in the biostimulator group are mostly common and harmless, and usually resolve on their own within 1 week. These include:

• Swelling and redness
• bruises
• Stiffness
• Itchy, irritated skin. 

In the event of any dangerous side effects from collagen-stimulating injections, such as skin discoloration, lumps, redness, or unusual swelling, you should consult a doctor immediately for appropriate treatment. 

 

Collagen-stimulating biostimulators are a great option for long-term skin care. Their properties and mechanisms gradually stimulate collagen production, resulting in natural-looking and comprehensive benefits, including reducing wrinkles and deep lines, firming the skin, restoring skin structure, and improving overall skin quality. However, before deciding on collagen-stimulating injections, it's essential to consult a doctor for a detailed skin assessment and to develop a treatment plan recommending the most suitable product for effective and satisfactory results.

 

*Results may vary depending on individual skin conditions. Consult a doctor before undergoing this procedure.

*Terms and conditions apply as specified by the company regarding collagen stimulants.