Collagen and Other Injectable Fillers

Collagen injection, as well as other injectable fillers are administered to make the skin smoother and plumper in appearance. Currently, collagen is the most popularly known and used filler. But there are also other available substances that can be used to make the skin plumper. Besides synthetic materials, doctors can even use body fat.

What is Collagen?
Collagen is the main protein of a connective tissue found in animals. It is the most abundant protein in mammals and it accounts for 25% of their total protein content. Unlike the globular proteins like enzymes, collagen performs a different function in the body. Collagen fibers, which are tough bundles of collagen, form part of an extracellular matrix, which supports most tissues. The matrix also gives structure to cells from the outside.

Collagen possesses a great tensil strength and it is an essential component of the cartilage, fascia, tendons, ligaments, teeth, and bone. The protein plays a key role in the development of tissues and helps in strengthening blood vessels. It is also present in the lense of the eye and the cornea in crystalline form. Collagen is also responsible for skin elasticity and strength. The degradation of collagen results in the development of wrinkles. The protein is used for burns and cosmetic surgeries.

How does collagen injection work?
Collagen injections boost the skin's natural collagen. Since collagen is responsible for skin elasticity and strength, increasing or restoring its amount improves the natural beauty of the skin. Currently, there are various kinds of collagen products available in the market.

Zyplast and Zyderm are bovine derived collagen treatments that are used to replenish the amount of collagen in the skin. These two substances are injected just beneath the skin, particularly in the dermis where the substances are readily accepted by the body. Meanwhile, CosmoPlast and CosmoDerm are bioengineered human collagen treatments. These products are more advantageous considering that they do not require a skin test before the initial collagen treatment. Collagen should be injected into your skin only by a trained and experienced health care professional.

Other Injectable Fillers

• Artecol - This filler material is synthetic. As such, patients who use this substance have a higher risk of experiencing allergic reactions. But the effects of this filler last longer than those of the other options.
• Autologen - This filler is extracted from your body. While this collagen does not produce allergic reactions, its effects are only temporary.
• Dermalogen - This filler is taken from deceased human donors. This form of collagen treatment produces results similar to those of the autologen.
• Fascia - This collagen treatment uses a specific type of connective tissue that is extracted from your body or from that of a deceased human donor. It can either be injected or implanted surgically. The downside of this treatment is that your body will reabsorb the fascia within a year after the injection.
• Fat - Fat from your own abdomen or thighs can also be used for collagen treatment. It can either be implanted surgically or injected. This option is advantageous considering that it does not produce allergic reactions and that its results may become permanent.
• HylaForm - This filler is developed from a natural substance of the body called "hyaluronic acid. Since its result is only temporary, you will need to undergo this treatment repeatedly.
• Restylane
  This filler is a clear gel, which also contains hyaluronic acid. The disadvantage of this treatment is that your body absorbs the gel within six months after the injection.

Which Is the Best Treatment?
If you are planning to undergo a collagen treatment, it is important to consult with your doctor as to whether you need the cosmetic procedure or not. Your doctor will also determine which filler is appropriate for you and how many injections you will need. It is important for your doctor to know your medical history in order to determine whether you are fit for the cosmetic procedure and to avoid complications during and after the collagen treatment.