Restylane

Restylane® contains hyaluronic acid, naturally found in the human body and is thought to help increase moisture in the skin. Restylane® uses NASHA technology, said to be unique to the product. As this is a pharmaceutical medication, the label information with a complete list of ingredients is not available.

NASHA stands for Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the connective tissues that hydrates and provides protection and helps increase the elasticity of the skin. Many products include forms of hyaluronic acid that are derived from roosters and cows; this product does not use animal proteins because, according to the website, diseases can be transmitted this way and risk for allergic reactions to products increases with exposure to animal-derived proteins.

The product is only available through a doctor’s prescription, and as mentioned, is meant to treat people with severe facial wrinkles and nasolabial folds. For those who feel they may benefit from a pharmaceutical drug, the product may be a desirable option. However, as with most prescription medications, side effects are likely to occur.

The website warns that redness and swelling could occur for up to seven days after treatment, and exposure to sunlight should be avoided during this time. Over the counter options are available as well, and many have no side effects associated with them and are proven to be effective in reducing the signs of aging. These types of products may be preferable for those interested in less harmful treatment methods.

• Website posts links to scientific research
• Product claims to be free of animal extracts

• Label information is not provided
• Side effects such as redness and swelling may occur for some
• Use of product increases sensitivity to UV rays
• Many customers have spoken of their disappointments with this product on consumer blogs. Click here to read more about these on the Restylane blog.
• Product is available through prescription only

Without a complete list of ingredients, it is difficult to accurately assess how effective this method of treatment is. Hyaluronic acid is often used in anti-aging formulas, and is thought to be effective, but is generally included with other ingredients. From what we do know, however, injections can be painful, and have potential side effects like swelling and redness, plus increased sensitivity to ultra-violet rays. The web site posts an extensive list of warnings, precautions, contraindications and adverse effects associated with this product’s use; because of this and the need for prescription, this method of treatment is only an option for those with severe damage to the facial tissues. For those interested in a simpler, gentler approach, many other products are available using different treatment methods.

Over the counter products are available that contain hyaluronic acid plus a blend of other effective ingredients designed to boost collagen production. These products generally come in topical creams, and have been shown to be effective without the negative side effects.