Belotero - Dermal Fillers

This is a non-animal Hyaluronic Acid gel (NaHA) created by Anteis. Belotero is a new cross linked hyaluronic acid, monophonic in composition. A product from Switzerland, it is mainly distributed by Merz Pharma UK limited and was launched in the UK in early 2007. Originally, the product was designed from biofermentaion of hyaluronic acid, which is a substance that exists naturally in the human body.

The manufacturers point out that the acid component makes the product totally compatible with the body and that it is fully biodegradable once used. The creation process involves using cohesive polydensified matrix (CPM), a technology that is capable of giving the product remarkable elasticity. Compared to biphasic products, this product can yield better results in terms of volume increase and wrinkle reduction.

Belotero® has a unique, cohesive polydensified structure made of a highly cohesive gel. This gel is easily injected through small diameters during treatment. Normally, no allergy tests are required on the skin before the product can be used for treatment on a patient. The product is non-permanent since the hyaluronic acid gradually brakes down in the body. Over time, there is no trace of the filler left in the body and another injection will be necessary if the results were satisfactory and desired once more.

It comes in three product formulations which are basic, soft and intense. For volume enhancement treatments, Belotero basic is best and Belotero soft is more suitable for superficial wrinkles. Belotero intense is ideal for lines and wrinkles and is injected deeply into the skin by use of a 27G needle. The formulations come in packages of 22.5, 20 and 25.5 mg/ml for basic, soft and intense respectively.

The duration of effect after treatment will depend entirely on factors like age, treatment, correction undertaken and the accuracy of placement by the practitioner performing the treatment. It is recommended by the manufacturers to have two treatments per year and one treatment is will normally last for 6-9 months. Some of the common side-effects that have been found to occur include swelling, redness, discolouration and tenderness in the area treated, but recovery is immediate in most cases.