Is Profhilo a filler? How effective is it at hydrating dry skin? We speak to DR RACHEL HO of La Clinic to learn more about this hyaluronic acid injectable treatment – and give it a try ourselves!
What exactly is Profhilo and how does it work?
It’s an injectable moisturiser made of high and low molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to hydrate the dermis. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that retains moisture. Hence, it’s able to hydrate dry skin from within to give a lit-from-within glow and improve skin texture.
This hyaluronic acid injectable also has the benefit of stimulating collagen and elastin production in the skin. This improves skin elasticity, firms up saggy skin and reduces signs of ageing. It can also brighten dull skin and shrink enlarged pores.
Is Profhilo a filler? How does it compare to other injectables like dermal fillers?
No, Profhilo is not a filler. Like dermal fillers, it contains hyaluronic acid, but there are differences in their rheology, benefits and injection techniques. Profhilo is injected into the dermis at bio-aesthetic points, allowing the hyaluronic acid to spread evenly and enhance skin quality across the injected region. In contrast, dermal fillers are injected into soft tissue or onto the bone to add volume and contour specific areas, with no spreading or improvement in overall skin quality.
This hyaluronic acid injectable treatment gradually enhances skin quality and addresses the signs of ageing by stimulating collagen and elastin production. Meanwhile, dermal fillers provide immediate, localised results for volume and contouring without affecting skin quality.
What are the pros and cons?
The benefits include improved skin quality, including enhanced hydration in dry skin, a more radiant glow, smaller pores, lifted saggy skin and reduced fine lines for a more youthful appearance. It also has minimal downtime, can treat conditions like depressed acne scars, and is suitable for patients of all skin tones, unlike certain laser treatments. However, the main con is that it requires a bit longer to see noticeable results, about four to six weeks.
Who is the ideal candidate? Is it a good option for someone new to injectables?
It’s ideal for individuals with dry skin and early signs of ageing (for example, mild to moderate skin laxity, enlarged pores and fine lines) who are seeking natural-looking rejuvenation without altering facial volumes. It’s also a great option for those new to injectables, as it focuses on enhancing skin health rather than changing facial features, making it more acceptable to new patients.
I’m a bit worried about the hyaluronic acid injectable adding puffiness or lumpiness to my face. Should I be?
Profhilo doesn’t cause long-term puffiness in the face. But there may be mild swelling, especially during the first few days after the treatment, that may be perceived as increased puffiness in the first week. Swelling typically subsides after one to three days.
Do you use this hyaluronic acid injectable with any other treatments?
I combine it with other treatments as required, depending on the patient’s concerns. For example, I may also use lasers to treat dark spots or botox injections to address expression wrinkles.
When can we see results and how long do they last?
Results can be seen in most patients within four to eight weeks. The typical protocol involves two initial sessions, spaced one to two months apart, followed by repeat treatments every six to nine months.
How much does it cost?
$1,400 per session at La Clinic.
Curious about this hyaluronic acid injectable treatment? Read on for Georgina’s review!
Honestly, there are so many clinics in Singapore that offer cosmetic procedures and prices are fairly standardised. Spoilt for choice, what I look for is a well-located, clean and calming clinic with an experienced doctor and a good bedside manner. I’d been recently to Dr Rachel Ho for baby botox so I felt very lucky to return to her lovely clinic, which ticks all of these boxes. La Clinic has a premium feel being in Paragon, and Dr Ho always makes me feel informed, at ease and pampered.
My friend recently had Profhilo, and her face looks fresh and plump, so I was keen to give this hyaluronic acid injectable a try. I haven’t delved into the world of injectable moisturisers, so I like that this procedure is minimally invasive for a more natural glow. I’m using hyaluronic acid skin care products on my dry skin, so I was intrigued to see how much more effective it is in “bio-remodelling” from within.
First, we had a consult where Dr Ho explained the procedure. Once settled under a blanket in the treatment room, the nurse applied numbing cream to my cheek area. After she covered the area with plastic film to allow for more effective penetration, I had a little chill with the lights off for around 20 minutes. Dr Ho then marked my face to find the perfect location for each of the eight injection sites. It’s important to get this correct! The injections were slightly more intense than botox, but very bearable and done in less than five minutes.
Dr Ho then put me under the LED lights for 10 minutes to reduce redness. And the nurse applied antiseptic cream, moisturiser and a little foundation. I like that there’s zero downtime!
The verdict
A week after the procedure, the hyaluronic acid has spread evenly under the skin, deeply hydrating it and triggering a natural firming and lifting effect. I feel great, with my skin feeling smoother, especially with the combined effect of the earlier baby botox to my forehead. I’ve also noticed my makeup sits better for an airbrushed finish.
– Georgina Hockley
La Clinic
#08-01/02 Paragon Medical Centre, 290 Orchard Road
6235 4040 | laclinic.com.sg
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This article first appeared in the January 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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