Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occurring compound in the body which can be manufactured and used in a variety of restorative and rejuvenative treatments:

Skin Booster:

HA in skin boosters is a non-crosslinked type. This gives the booster it's rejuvenative properties to replenish the loss of HA due to ageing, to maintain hydration, improve tone and elasticity of the skin and act as a filler for small lines such as crow’s feet, smile lines or smoke lines surrounding the mouth. 

Dermal Filler:

HA in dermal fillers is crosslinked. The cross-linking makes the material more gel-like and longer lasting. It also makes it more water absorbent. In the skin HA attracts water and allows the skin to be more hydrated. This firmer HA also fills loss in volume due to ageing effects on the bone, muscle, fat and skin thinning. 

Joint Viscosupplement:

HA is also similar to synovial fluid, which occurs naturally in joints and acts to lubricate and protect against shock and stress. HA is commonly used for conditions such as knee, hip, shoulder, hand and ankle arthritis. Reducing pain, improving function and facilitating rehabilitation.

Dr Westwood uses Durolane® HA injection. This treatment is proven to be safe and effective, resulting in increased mobility and enhanced joint protection. Pain relief with this typically lasts at least 6 months and only one injection is required (as opposed to 3 separate injections required with other brands).

Cingal®, a combination HA and corticosteroid is also available providing the benefits of both treatments in a single injection. 

Joint injection with HA has been shown to delay total knee replacement surgery by three or more years. 

You can read more about both Durolane® and Cingal® by clicking on the 'Learn more...' links below.