Thursday, May 14, 2009

Collagen and cosmetics

Collagen was the first dermal filler to be used in cosmetic surgery. Collagen is a natural substance in the body and plays an important role in tissue support, strength, and maintaining skin tone and integrity. When collagen levels decrease due to aging or excessive sun exposure, wrinkles and fine lines start to appear.

Collagen injections are widely used to reverse signs of aging. Two decades ago, collagen was widely used to erase fine lines, wrinkles and deep furrows on the face

How many types of collagen fillers are there?

Today, there is both synthetic and animal derived collagen for injection. The one major difference between the two is that the synthetic collagen has little chance of allergy and thus does not require any pretesting. Collagen derived from an animal source must be tested for allergy.

What is collagen used to treat?

Collagen is widely used to treat a number of skin imperfections like fine lines, wrinkles, deep creases, or acne scars. Collagen is also widely used to make the lips plump and luscious.

What preparations are required prior to collagen injections?

There are no extensive reparations required prior to the injection of collagen. If collagen is derived from an animal source, the individual has to undergo allergy testing. This involves injection of a small amount of collagen on the arm or back and waiting for 4 weeks. If the test is negative, one can have the injections. If the test is positive, another dermal filler is recommended.

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