Elevating Anti-Aging with Biostimulators
As dermatology providers, we are often asked about cosmetic concerns due to aging skin. Many of our patients are concerned about achieving “natural results” while also wanting to see improvements to their skin quality. Biostimulators can be a good fit for patients who are okay with waiting longer to see anti-aging results and are willing to be consistent with treatments.
As our skin ages, collagen production decreases and elastic fibers become thinner, which causes skin to sag. Biostimulators are injectable treatments that stimulate the production of collagen and strengthen elastin (elastic fibers) of our skin. Typically, biostimulators take a series of treatments spaced weeks to months apart to achieve the patient’s desired result. In contrast to hyaluronic acid fillers, which provide more immediate satisfaction, the results take about six weeks to visualize but also tend to last longer (approximately 1-2 years). Biostimulators currently available include calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, and platelet-rich fibrin.
Calcium hydroxylapatite, a biostimulator otherwise known as Radiesse, was approved by the FDA in 2006. Radiesse is made of microscopic spheres of synthetic bone mixed in a carboxymethylcellulose gel. It stimulates natural collagen production, which improves skin texture and volume.
Poly-L-lactic acid, or Sculptra, was initially FDA approved for facial atrophy in HIV patients in 2006 and again in 2009 for facial aging. Sculptra is a synthetic polymer that induces collagen production by causing a foreign body response. It must be reconstituted with saline and lidocaine to make an injectable hydrogel. Injections of Sculptra usually take place at the periosteum along bony contours and are typically utilized to correct nasolabial folds, temples, cheeks, jawline, pre-jowl sulcus, and chin.
Additionally, Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a biostimulator that requires reconstitution with the patients’ own platelets. It can be applied topically or injected. Benefits of PRF include increased collagen and elastin, faster healing, and skin regeneration.
These biostimulator treatments provide subtle, natural, and long-term results for patients with minimal downtime. Even if your practice does not include cosmetics, being able to discuss these options with patients in the clinic and provide education is key in the anti-aging treatment landscape.
References:
Fisher SM, Borab Z, Weir D, Rohrich RJ. The emerging role of biostimulators as an adjunct in facial rejuvenation: A systematic review. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2024 May;92:118-129. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.02.069. Epub 2024 Mar 6. PMID: 38518624.
Sclafani AP, Azzi J. Platelet Preparations for Use in Facial Rejuvenation and Wound Healing: A Critical Review of Current Literature. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2015 Aug;39(4):495-505. doi: 10.1007/s00266-015-0504-x. Epub 2015 Jun 5. PMID: 26044392.
Pavlovic V, Ciric M, Jovanovic V, Trandafilovic M, Stojanovic P. Platelet-rich fibrin: Basics of biological actions and protocol modifications. Open Med (Wars). 2021 Mar 22;16(1):446-454. doi: 10.1515/med-2021-0259. PMID: 33778163; PMCID: PMC7985567.
Jenny Laminack resides in Alpharetta, Georgia, with her husband, Joey. She enjoys traveling and hiking in her free time. She has worked as a dermatology PA since 2015 and has been with the Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Diseases since 2017.