Question:
How does an injectable filler of hyaluronic acid differ from collagen?
Answer:
Hyaluronic acid is a big linked sugar molecule known as a mucopolysaccarhide. It is a naturally occurring molecule in your body including skin and joint fluid. The molecule is not species specific and therefore does not have allergic potential. The most commonly used hyaluronic acid fillers are made from a process of bacterial fermentation to generate the product. Collagen is a complex molecule that is part of the skin. It is species specific. Bovine (cow) collagen is utilized in some products even today. These products require a skin test to see if the person is sensitive prior to injection. Collagen products are not widely used as an injectable filler now that hyaluronic acid is available.
Posted by Dr. Buckingham
