Finding the right clinic shouldn't take forever...
Gain a deeper understanding of aesthetics by booking a Face-to-face hour with Dr Yiannis. This is your chance to discover our unique approach, with no pressure to book.
Subscribe to our newsletter for £100 OFF this initial consultation.
Learn how Profhilo compares to Dermal Fillers, Sculptra, Polynucleotides and Sunekos to improve skin texture, laxity, and hydration.
It’s exciting to see just how far the world of aesthetics has evolved from simply addressing wrinkles. Today, we’re able to improve skin texture, hydration, and overall appearance thanks to a wide range of advanced injectables. From fillers and skin boosters to bio-stimulators and Polynucleotides, each treatment offers unique benefits.
However, with so many options available, it’s easy for patients (especially new ones) to feel unsure about what’s truly best for your skin.
One treatment that’s gained significant attention is Profhilo, known for its ultra-pure hyaluronic acid formulation and its ability to bio-remodel the skin without adding volume. While traditional fillers restore structure and skin boosters target hydration, Profhilo sits in its own category – supporting firmness, elasticity, and overall skin quality [1].
Let's take a closer look at what makes this treatment stand out.
Profhilo is neither a filler, a skin booster, nor a collagen stimulator. It’s considered a bio-remodeller, thanks to its high concentration of stabilised hybrid cooperative hyaluronic acid complexes (HyCoHyA) which behave differently from cross-linked hyaluronic acid fillers [1].
Now I know that sounds very scientific, so here’s what that means in simple terms.
Unlike fillers that remain in place to add lift or contour, Profhilo spreads beneath the skin, providing deep hydration and stimulating collagen and elastin [1][2]. Once injected, it disperses gradually and interacts with fibroblasts – the cells responsible for producing collagen – to support firmer, smoother, more elastic skin [1][3]. Over time, this leads to healthier-looking, more resilient skin with improved hydration and reduced laxity, without altering face shape.
Here’s how Profhilo compares to some of the most common injectable treatments on the market
As mentioned, Dermal Fillers use cross-linked hyaluronic acid. This enables them to restore volume, sculpt contours, and soften wrinkles. Fillers remain exactly where placed, and provide structure and projection [4].
On the other hand, Profhilo spreads evenly within the skin, supports collagen and elastin production, and deeply hydrates dermal tissue – without adding volume [1][2]. This makes Dermal Fillers ideal for applications like hollow cheeks, jawline definition, and deeper wrinkles. Profhilo is better suited for thin, dehydrated, or lax skin needing overall rejuvenation rather than reshaping.
Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which is a clinically studied collagen stimulator used to gradually increase dermal thickness and restore facial volume [5][6]. Sculptra stimulates long-term collagen over several months, and is ideal for significant volume loss. Results for Sculptra can also last up to two years [6].
In contrast, Profhilo hydrates the skin instantly and improves both elasticity and overall skin quality, rather than providing lift. The effects of Profhilo also wear off faster due to its pure hyaluronic acid composition so it tends to dissolve and absorb more quickly as the body metabolises it [1].
If you're after instant hydration and skin tightening, Profhilo is the better choice. But if your main focus is gradual volumisation and thicker skin, I may recommend considering Sculptra.
Polynucleotide injectables are becoming a go-to choice for many of my patients looking to repair and regenerate their skin. These injectables work at a cellular level to support elasticity and skin repair, enhance hydration, reduce inflammation, and improve microcirculation [7][8]. Polynucleotides are particularly effective around the under-eyes, forehead, and areas with scars or pigmentation.
Comparing the two, Profhilo remains the better choice for fast hydration and improved firmness, especially if like some of my patients – you want instant and noticeable radiance. However, Polynucleotides definitely excel in repairing weakened or damaged skin, and offer much broader regenerative benefits.
For a few of my patients, Sunekos is often a top contender to Profhilo as both aim to improve skin hydration and contain two molecular weights of hyaluronic acid. However, they differ in formulation and how they act within the skin.
Profhilo contains stabilised hyaluronic acid complexes in one syringe, which spreads evenly under the skin. It gives an overall boost in hydration, firmness, and elasticity, and is suitable for the mid and lower-third of the face [1].
Sunekos takes a more targeted approach. It separates its hyaluronic acids into two products – Sunekos 200 and Sunekos 1200 – allowing for more tailored treatment. It also contains six amino acids that assist in natural collagen and elastin production. Additionally, Sunekos stimulates fibronectin – the glue-like protein which links different types of collagen together to support both structure and repair. Sunekos helps improve fine lines, texture, and hydration, and typically requires 3–4 sessions with gradual effects that offer long-term improvement [9].
Unlike Profhilo, Sunekos works in harmony with your body and doesn’t create any stress. This makes it ideal for delicate areas like under the eyes, the forehead, and neck. Where Profhilo offers fast, visible results – Sunekos supports deeper, more natural regeneration.
At my clinic, I’ve seen Profhilo become particularly popular among patients in their 30s to 50s who are starting to notice the first signs of aging. However, it can also be a great option for younger individuals looking to maintain their skin and prevent future concerns, as well as older patients who want to improve skin firmness without turning to more invasive treatments.
Profhilo is also beneficial after environmental stress such as sun exposure or harsh weather, and for lifestyle-related skin dullness (like smoking or high-sugar diets).
Profhilo truly stands out as a unique injectable offering hydration, elasticity, firmness, and collagen support without altering facial structure. I like to think it sits comfortably between fillers, skin boosters, and bio-stimulators – offering a balance of immediate improvement and gradual skin remodelling.
If you’re looking to enhance overall skin quality, improve laxity, and boost elasticity with minimal downtime, Profhilo is an excellent treatment option.
Book your consultation with the Anti Wrinkle Clinic today and allow me, Dr Yiannis, to help you find the perfect treatment for your skin concerns and long-term goals.
[1] Dalfrà V, et al. Hybrid cooperative complexes of hyaluronic acid in skin rejuvenation: A review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021.
[2] Profhilo – IBSA scientific dossier.
[3] Papakonstantinou E, et al. Hyaluronic acid: Skin hydration and biological function. Dermatoendocrinol. 2012.
[4] De Boulle K, et al. Hyaluronic acid fillers for facial aesthetic enhancement. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol.
[5] Vleggaar D, Fitzgerald R. Poly-L-lactic acid and collagen stimulation. Aesthetic Plast Surg.
[6] Bernardin A, et al. Long-term effects of poly-L-lactic acid. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2025.
[7] Kim J, et al. Polynucleotide-based injections and skin regeneration. J Cosmet Laser Ther.
[8] Cervelli V, et al. Use of polynucleotides in aesthetic and regenerative medicine. J Craniofac Surg.
[9] Papadopoulos L, et al. Amino acid + HA combination products for ECM support. J Cosmet Dermatol.
Learn more about our 5 Step Journey and book your Face-to-face hour with Dr Yiannis for a truly different consultation process.
5 Step Journey
