The Ultimate Guide to Skin Boosters

We have extended our range of skin boosters to give you options for improving the texture and vitality of your skin.

Whatever your skin type and particular needs, our expert practitioners will recommend the right skin booster to achieve your desired results.

Here, our team of Save Face accredited aesthetics experts explain our range of skin boosters and the characteristics that give each of them a unique, rejuvenating effect in the skin.

• About skin boosters
• Which skin booster treatments are available?
• Skin booster before and after
• What it’s like to have skin booster treatment
• What are skin boosters used for?
• Having skin booster treatment in the UK
• Safe use of skin boosters

About skin boosters

What are skin boosters?

Skin boosters are an injectable treatment that is formulated to deeply hydrate the skin, improve texture, tone and elasticity.

The main ingredient in skin boosters is hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring chemical that the body uses to retain water in the skin and support its plumping collagen and elastin.

Skin booster injections are ideal for patients who would like to target dryness, crepey skin and fine lines.

Skin boosters are a very versatile treatment that can be used on lots of areas of the body including the face, neck, décolletage, hands, arms, inner thighs, and knees.

What are skin boosters made of?

The key ingredient in skin boosters is hyaluronic acid. This naturally occurring chemical is used by the body to keep cells hydrated and well supported. Around 50% of the body’s hyaluronic acid is found in the skin.

What are the benefits of skin boosters?

Levels of hyaluronic acid decrease with age, which contributes to loss of volume in the skin.

Skin boosters can offer several benefits.

Through their deeply hydrating action, they can treat and prevent skin ageing, restoring skin elasticity and plumpness.

Skin boosters can be used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, including expression lines, as well as improving dark circles (which are multifactorial*) and eye bags. They are also an effective treatment for acne scarring and sun damage.

* Dark circles can be influenced by several factors including genetics, skin tone, facial anatomy and lifestyle.

How do skin boosters work?

Skin boosters are delivered by a series of small injections to deeply hydrate the skin and create a visibly restored and volumized effect. The result is firmer, more radiant skin.

The unique combination of ingredients in the various types of skin boosters work on a cellular level in the skin. This means that they continue to stimulate a prolonged, rejuvenating effect by encouraging regeneration.

What colour are skin boosters?

Skin boosters are transparent.

Are skin boosters vegetarian or vegan?

Hyaluronic acid is vegan as it is derived from plant extracts or artificially synthesized.

Having said this, each skin booster product will have been tested on animals at some point, as this is a legal requirement.

Are skin boosters kosher?

Yes, skin boosters are not consumed and therefore, strictly speaking, they are kosher.

What is the difference between skin boosters and dermal fillers?

The main ingredient in both dermal fillers and skin boosters is hyaluronic acid. However, each treatment is formulated to perform different functions in the skin.

Dermal fillers are designed to stay in a single place, adding instant volume to sagging skin.

Skin boosters work in a different way. They provide a more generalised hydration to subtly add elasticity to the skin, whilst improving its texture.

Certain skin boosters are formulated to integrate with the skin to trigger the patient’s own, natural, anti-ageing processes.

Both treatments have different, but equally impressive, benefits.

Profhilo vs skin boosters – what’s the difference?

Profhilo is type of skin booster. It consists of hyaluronic acid injections to increase hydration and stimulate your natural collagen and elastin production.

Every brand of skin booster has a slightly different formulation, and therefore each is marketed in different ways.

Which skin booster treatments are available?

Profhilo

Profhilo skin boosters are a very popular treatment for patients who want to reduce the effects of ageing and restore youthful radiance.

Practitioners also recommend Profhilo as a preventative measure for skin ageing. This is achieved as Profhilo integrates with the skin to trigger the patient’s natural, anti-ageing processes.

Profhilo stimulates the cell receptors in the skin to counteract slackness and promote firmness.

Profhilo contains pure, high grade hyaluronic acid, it does not contain synthetic additives such as BDDE.

BDDE is a chemical which is cross-linked (or bonded) to hyaluronic acid in many dermal fillers to slow the rate at which the body breaks them down. Because Profhilo doesn’t contain BDDE there is a lower risk of hypersensitive reactions to the treatment.

Sunekos

Sunekos skin boosters stimulate the natural production of collagen and elastin in the skin. The result is deeply hydrated, plumped skin.

Sunekos uses a patented formula, which combines amino acids with hyaluronic acid.

The unique ingredients in Sunekos work together with the skin’s Extra Cellular Matrix to promote the production of collagen and elastin.

Sunekos deeply hydrates the outer and deeper layers of the treated skin, this has a plumping and lifting effect, to reduce and prevent the signs of ageing.

Jalupro

Jalupro skin boosters have a unique ‘bio revitalising’ action. Jalupro may be recommended for patients who would like to address textural issues through to acne scarring for example.

Jalupro stimulates the skin’s natural ability to regenerate, resulting in deeply hydrated, smoothed skin.

The cells of the subcutaneous connective tissue in our skin are called fibroblasts. These cells produce collagen and are responsible for skin tone and elasticity.

The combined ingredients of amino acids and hyaluronic acid in Jalupro stimulate the skin’s fibroblasts to encourage the production of collagen. This promotes better elasticity, firmness and tone, to reduce the signs of ageing, scarring and sun damage.

Jalupro stimulates a prolonged effect in the skin where the process of repair continues after treatment.

Restylane

The formulation of hyaluronic acid in Restylane skin boosters refreshes the skin by hydrating it, restoring a smooth, soft texture.

Restylane skin boosters boost the elasticity of the skin to provide a healthier, radiant appearance. They are particularly effective at reducing the effects of sun damage and reducing smoker’s lines.

Skin booster before and after

What it’s like to have skin booster treatment

What should I ask before I have skin booster treatment?

There are a few things you should check before you go ahead with your treatment:

• Find out the name of your practitioner and look up their qualifications and experience. Ensure that they are accredited by appropriate medical and aesthetic registers.
• Find out how many treatments they expect you to need for the outcome you want and the cost of the treatments.
• Ask what they will do to minimise pain or discomfort during the treatment.
• Ask about any risks or side effects of the treatment.
• Find out whether you will have a follow-up appointment.
• Ask what they will do if something goes wrong or if you’re not happy with the results.
• Ask what aftercare is recommended.
• If you are in any doubt about the safety of your treatment or the abilities of the practitioner, do not proceed with treatment.

What should I expect to be asked in the consultation?

Your practitioner should ask you for details of your medical history and any medication you are taking. They should discuss the outcome you’re looking for and why you want to have skin booster treatment, to ensure that it is the right choice for you.

If they don’t believe that the treatment is right for you, then they should explain why and, if appropriate, discuss alternatives.

How many skin booster treatments will I need?

Every patient is different, so what we recommend will depend on the results you’re looking for and your practitioner’s assessment of your skin. Generally, patients initially require two or three treatments over a three to four week period.

How much do skin boosters cost?

The cost of your treatment will depend on the skin booster treatment that is recommended for your desired results, along with the area of the skin to be treated.

We will ensure you have full information at your free initial consultation, before you proceed with treatment.

How long should a skin booster treatment take?

Depending on the area that is being treated, each treatment usually takes around 15 minutes. Including your consultation, the full appointment will take around 30 minutes.

Do skin boosters work straight away?

You will start to see results of skin booster treatment approximately seven to ten days after the first session.

With Profhilo for example, patients may feel an immediate improvement thanks to the hydrating effect. However, it can take a few weeks before the full results of treatment are achieved, as Profhilo encourages the body to produce its own anti-ageing collagen and elastin.

How long do skin boosters last?

Depending on the patient and their skin type and condition, results can last for up to six months.

Can I have skin boosters at the same time as other treatments?

Yes, skin boosters are an ideal partner for other aesthetic treatments.

Skin boosters are often recommended to prepare the skin for certain treatments, such as peels and dermal fillers, because it can help to prolong their effects.

Skin boosters also work well in combination with botox. While botox reduces wrinkles caused by specific muscles, skin boosters give overall hydration and volume to complement the botox.

Your practitioner will recommend the best approach for your desired outcome.

Do skin booster injections hurt?

There may be a slight stinging feeling at the injection point, but this only lasts a few seconds. Your practitioner may use a local anaesthetic, applied topically or by injection, to reduce any discomfort.

Will I be sore after my skin booster treatment?

You might be a little sore, but this will settle down within a week.

You’ll be able to go about your normal life immediately after treatment. Your practitioner will provide you with full aftercare instructions.

Will I have bruises from my skin booster treatment?

A small amount of swelling or bruising is possible.

After the treatment, you may experience some tenderness for the first 24-72 hours.

What are the side effects of having skin boosters?

Normal side effects include small amounts of swelling, bruising, redness and soreness.

Most of these will subside after a couple of days and be gone within ten. If you are still experiencing problems after ten days you should contact your practitioner for advice.

Will I feel ill after having skin booster treatment?

No, you shouldn’t feel ill. You may feel a little tender in the areas which have been injected, but that’s all.

If you feel unwell, particularly if you have a temperature, you should contact your practitioner and, if appropriate, your GP for advice.

What precautions should I take after having skin booster treatment?

Make-up should not be worn for 12 hours.

You are advised to avoid alcohol and vigorous exercise for 48 hours.

Avoid sun bathing, and extremes of heat or cold for 14 days post treatment.

It is advisable to avoid aspirin and alcohol for 12-48 hours after treatment.

Are skin boosters permanent?

Hyaluronic acid-based treatments are not permanent. Eventually the ingredients will be absorbed by the body. This is a gradual process, so they won’t suddenly disappear overnight.

After your initial treatments, a skin booster treatment every six months should be sufficient to maintain the benefits. This timing will be influenced by the initial skin complaint and factors including lifestyle.

What should I do if I’m not happy with my treatment?

So long as you felt that your treatment was administered safely, you should speak to your practitioner if you are at all unhappy with the outcome.

If you weren’t happy with how the original treatment was administered or felt at all unsafe in the clinic, then we would recommend visiting an alternative practitioner to resolve any issues. While this may not be the most cost-effective route, your safety should be your primary concern. Use a register such as Save Face to ensure that you select an accredited practitioner.

What are skin boosters used for?

Where on the body can skin boosters be used?

Skin boosters can be used to improve the signs of ageing on the face (particularly the eye area and cheeks), the neck, décolletage, chest, stomach, inner arms, hands and knees.

What do skin boosters treat?

Skin boosters are particularly effective in treating skin laxity and improving the quality and overall radiance of the skin.

Generally, patients report an overall improvement in skin hydration, brightness, smoothness and firmness.

Can skin boosters help with scarring?

Yes, skin boosters can be used to treat acne scarring.

Will people know that I’ve had skin booster treatment?

Skin booster treatment creates very natural skin improvements – friends will notice you look great, but they won’t realise why!

Having skin booster treatment in the UK

What regulations control skin booster treatment?

The skin boosters we use are licensed medical devices with a European CE mark.

The CE mark signifies that products sold in the EEA have been assessed to meet high safety, health, and environmental protection requirements. However, this only means that they adhere to certain manufacturing standards and does not say anything about their efficacy.

Currently there are no other regulations in place.

Who can carry out skin booster treatment?

There are currently no regulations in the UK controlling who can carry out dermal treatments such as skin booster injections.

We would strongly recommend that you only allow a fully trained and experienced healthcare professional (a doctor, nurse or dentist) to administer the injections. While skin booster treatments are safe, in the hands of someone who is not both medically and aesthetically trained, they can be very dangerous.

How do I find a safe and high quality skin booster practitioner?

Save Face is a national register of accredited practitioners who provide non-surgical cosmetic treatments. The register is accredited by Professional Standards Authority and is recognised by the Government, The Department of Health, NHS England and The Care Quality Commission.

Save Face practitioners have been individually assessed on-site by a Save Face Clinical Assessor, using a stringent set of standards for accreditation.

All Melior Clinics clinics are Save Face accredited. Find out more about Save Face.

Do I need to have a prescription for skin boosters?

No, a prescription is not required for skin boosters.

How old do I have to be to have skin boosters?

As long as you are over 18, there are no other age restrictions when it comes to skin boosters. However, a reputable practitioner will not treat anyone who they feel is too young or not suitable for any other reason.

Generally, from the age of 30 and up is suitable as skin boosters are an ideal treatment for patients who have noticed the first signs of skin laxity, or have visible signs of skin ageing.

Safe use of skin boosters

Are skin boosters safe?

Yes, so long as the treatment is administered by a suitably trained, qualified and experienced medical practitioner.

Your practitioner will ask about your medical history and any ongoing conditions or medications you are taking, so they can check the treatment is right for you.

Can I have skin booster treatment if I’m pregnant?

No. You shouldn’t have any injectable treatments if you are pregnant. The risks are not known and, therefore, no reputable practitioner will treat a pregnant woman.

Can I have skin booster treatment if I’m breast feeding?

No. It is not known whether there is any potential risk in having injectable treatments when you are breast feeding, therefore you should not have the treatment.

Can I have skin booster treatment if I have an infection?

If you have a skin infection near the area to be treated, you will not be able to have skin booster treatment until it’s cleared up.

If you have a cold or any other illness, you should tell your practitioner. They can then judge whether treatment will be safe for you.

Can I have skin booster treatment if I’m diabetic?

Yes, this shouldn’t be a problem. However, it’s important to inform your practitioner of your condition and any medication you are taking, prior to your treatment.

Can I have skin booster treatment if I’m on antibiotics?

If these are for a skin infection in the area to be treated or if they are for an ear, sinus, nose, throat or dental infection, then you are unlikely to be suitable for skin booster treatment until the infection has fully cleared up.

If you are on antibiotics for another reason, you should discuss this with your practitioner before your treatment to ascertain if you can go ahead.

Can you be allergic to skin boosters?

Yes, it is possible to have an allergic reaction to skin boosters.

If you have any history of allergic reactions, you should discuss this with your practitioner before your treatment.

What are the risks of having skin booster treatment?

When skin booster treatment is administered by someone who is appropriately qualified, trained and experienced, the risks of something going wrong are very low.

However, in inexperienced hands, skin booster injections can be very dangerous. For example:

• If the product is contaminated or injected with poor technique this can lead to severe skin reactions. These include rashes, excessive swelling or ulcers.
• If the person carrying out the treatment doesn’t have a thorough understanding of human anatomy there is a small risk that they could inject the skin booster into a bloodstream and block it, reducing your blood supply.
• Poor hygiene can cause infections leading to permanent facial scarring and potentially spread to other parts of your body.

Are there any other reasons I shouldn’t have skin booster treatment?

You should discuss any medical conditions you have and any medication you are taking with your practitioner before the treatment goes ahead.

Can I inject skin boosters myself?

Skin boosters are now widely available online. However, it is dangerous to inject it yourself or allow anyone without the appropriate qualifications and training to administer it for you.

The risks of incorrectly administered treatments are numerous. They range from the relatively minor problem of creating a lopsided appearance to the far more serious risks of blindness, skin death (necrosis) and stroke.