Popular dermal filler can regenerate collagen

According to a recent study from the University of Michigan, the cosmetic wrinkle treatment Restylane can actually make the skin regenerate natural collagen, which in turn can help maintain the elasticity and moisture levels in the skin.

"The aging process breaks down collagen.

This re-stops the breakdown increases production and fills the gap," said research dermatologist Dr. Steve Grekin, DO, a Missouri-based dermatologist.

He added that the research work carried out at the university indicated that the filler gave 'new life' to aging firbroblasts, the cells in the skin that make collagen.

Because of the boost from the Restylane to the fibroblasts the skin is consequently able to make new collagen, enabling the skin to hold on to the existing collagen levels, while also helping to renew it as well.

"In addition to the plumping, the effects could be longer because of the collagen made by these new fibroblast cells," Dr. Grekin said.

The University of Michigan study only looked at Restylane, although there are numerous similar products on the market.

Restylane's effects are said to last for six months, but the university research suggests that the effect it has on collagen could be longer-lasting.

Restylane, which is marketed by Arizona-based Medicis Aesthetic, has been approved by the USFDA for treatments carried out by dermatological experts, Although manufacturers of other dermal fillers have claimed that dermal fillers can help to promote the production and renewal of collagen, few have been able to provide independent scientific evidence to back these claims up.

A recent survey, carried out by dermal fill producer BioForm medical, showed that 22 million women over the age of 35 would contemplate using dermal filler as a means of fighting back signs of facial evidence, a figure that reflects the growing trend away from more radical and expensive treatments such as plastic surgery.