Scientists at Columbia University in New York discovered hyaluronic acid in 1934 in a cow's eye. Before cosmetic use, it was used in eye surgeries and injected into arthritic joints, according to Allergan. Restylane, or hyaluronidase, was approved by the FDA in 2003 for use as a cosmetic filler on the face. FDA literature states that this acid is naturally produced by the body.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a sugar complex that adds volume to the skin's surface. It is able to absorb more than 1,000 times its own weight, and is found in all living animals. Over time, as the body ages and is exposed to ultraviolet rays and environmental pollutants, the cells cannot produce as much hyaluronic acid as it once did. This volume loss leads to wrinkle formation. The MayoClinic.com also warns against smoking, which causes skin to age prematurely.
Restylane Characteristics
According to Daily Med, the amphadase component of Restylane is a protein enzyme obtained for human use from purified bovine testicular hyaluronidase. This hyaluronidase allows the hyaluronic acid, found naturally in the connective tissue, in the vitreous humor of the eye, and in the umbilical cord to spread out.
Wrinkle Prevention
Always protect skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen daily, even in winter, to protect against wrinkly development, the MayoClinic.com recommends. Seek out moisturizers and other facial products which contain sunscreen. Use moisturizer regularly to help skin hold moisture better. Remember that lotions and creams are considered as cosmetics by the FDA, and while they may help, there is no guarantee that they will reduce or prevent wrinkles. Finally, avoid smoking. Smoking takes its toll on the skin in the form of surface wrinkles and cell damage.
Drug Interactions
Restylane should not be given to aid absorption and dispersion of alpha agonist drugs and/or dopamine, according to Drugs.com. It should not be used with local anesthetics such as lidocaine, as this increases the risk of systemic reaction. High doses of drugs such as salicylates, ACTH, cortisone, antihistamines or estrogens can cause less Restylane to be absorbed, which may mean that a larger dose will be required.
Warnings
According to Restylane USA, Restylane should not be used in persons under 18 years of age, or on those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should not be used along with blood thinners or drugs that prevent blood clotting. Restylane-L and Perlane-L, other drugs in the Restylane family, should not be used by those who are allergic to lidocaine. Those with a history of bad allergies, especially to gram-positive bacteria, should also avoid using it.
It should not be used near the site of pimples, rashes, hives, cysts, or cold sores until completely healed. If used in those with a history of cold sores, Restylane could cause another outbreak. The dose should be limited to 6.0 mL per treatment, and should not be used in those with bleeding disorders.
Member Comments