Beauty for All
Walks of Life

Understanding Hyaluronic Acid

The Basics of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is like clay in sculpting.
The key is determining the right amount and placement to achieve a beautiful, natural-looking result.
With a bit of technique, some experience, and a good sense of aesthetics, the possibilities are endless.

Injection Process and Mechanism

Hyaluronic acid fillers contain hyaluronic acid and cross-linking agents, which determine their firmness and longevity.

Firm fillers are suited for deeper injections.
Soft fillers work best in superficial areas.
A simple analogy:

Placing a hard ball under a thick mattress results in a smooth, volumized appearance.
Placing soft slime under a thick mattress creates little to no change.
Placing a hard ball under a thin tablecloth creates visible bumps.
Placing soft slime under a thin tablecloth results in a natural, even lift.

Longevity and Effectiveness Comparison

The type and concentration of cross-linking agents influence how long hyaluronic acid lasts.

Higher cross-linking → Firmer texture, longer-lasting.
Lower cross-linking → Softer texture, shorter duration.
Precise formulation details are best left to specialists.

Major Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Juvederm Vista: Features and Characteristics

Manufactured by Allergan, this brand includes two well-known series:

Vycross Series: Recognizable by product names starting with “Vol” (Volux, Voluma, Volift, Volbella, Volite).
Volux: The firmest.
Volite: The thinnest, with a lightweight, smooth texture.
Hylacross Series: An earlier-generation formulation, including Ultra Plus XC.
Absorbs more water, requiring skilled application to avoid excessive swelling.

Restylane: Effects and Uses

Manufactured by Galderma, a Swedish company.

Restylane Lidocaine: Softer texture.
Restylane Lyft Lidocaine: Firmer texture for added lift.

Differences Between Voluma and Volift

Voluma: Slightly firmer, providing more volume.
Volift: Softer, blending more naturally into the skin.

Choosing the Right Hyaluronic Acid for Each Area

Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines)

For injection at the periosteal level (deep layer) → Voluma
For injection into the subcutaneous layer (superficial layer) → Volift
Other fillers may also be suitable depending on individual needs.

Lip Augmentation

Most commonly used: Volbella
Ideal for those who want a subtle, natural enhancement that isn’t noticeable when kissing.
For dramatic volume: Ultra Plus XC
Absorbs more water, creating a fuller effect.

Under-Eye and Tear Trough Treatment

For injection under the skin or near the lash line: Volbella
For deeper injections into fat layers (SOOF, DMFP): Voluma

Hyaluronic Acid Injection Process

Consultation and Choosing the Right Doctor

Sharing your desired results with the doctor is crucial.
Using reference photos can help communicate expectations clearly.

Step-by-Step Injection Procedure

Like sculpting with clay:

The necessary amount is applied according to the design.
The filler is smoothed and blended into the surrounding tissue.
The area is disinfected, injected, and gently massaged to ensure even distribution.

Post-Treatment Care and Precautions

Pressing the area firmly can help the filler settle, but excessive pressure may alter the results.

Yoshiko Kuno