Hydrafill® - Dermal Fillers

The distinguishing feature about this product is that it uses the popular filler, hyaluronic acid. It was launched in the UK market in 2004. It is manufactured by one of the largest known producers of hyaluronic acid, Corneal, while the distribution is done by Inamed Aesthetics which are now part of Allergen.

The generic composition is made of non-animal stabilised hyaluronic acid and is manufactured by use of a bacterial fermentation process. The finished product does not require any form of prior testing before use as it is made of natural ingredients. Given the fact that the main constituent of the product is hyaluronic acid, the product is also non-permanent. It lasts for a short amount of time and requires repeated treatments to maintain the condition of the treated areas.

The product ranges include Hydrafill® Grade 1 which is suitable for very fine lines such as laughter lines and smoker lines. Hydrafill® Grade 2 is appropriate for treating medium wrinkles and lines. For example, it can effectively treat nasolabial lines, glabellar lines and oral commissures at the corners of the mouth. The third range is Hydrafill® Grade 3 which is specifically designed for treating deep wrinkles and lines like nasolabial folds.

Additionally it can be used for chin augmentation and enhancing the border of one's lips. Hydrafill® Softline is designed for the treatment of vertical lip lines, nasolabial folds and forehead wrinkles, among other conditions. Lastly, Hydrafill® Softline Max is developed for increasing lip volume, nasolabial folds, oral commissures, chin lines, deep jaw lines and the areas around the lower cheek.

It should not be used on individuals known to have hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid, autoimmune disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or patients who are likely to develop hypertrophic scars. The degree of treatment required, lifestyle, age and quality of placement by the practitioner are factors which will determine the time it takes for full utilisation after treatment. Based on averages, it should take approximately six to twelve months - meaning that it offers a non-permanent solution and repeated treatments will be needed.

Some of the side-effects that can be experienced include swelling, discolouration, pain, itching, redness and tenderness at the region of the implant. In addition, 1 out of every 2000 patients treated have been reported to develop reactions that are thought to be related to hypersensitivity, but this is quite a low percentage.