Gels, Vol. 11, Pages 487: A Scientific Framework for Comparing Hyaluronic Acid Filler Crosslinking Technologies

Gels doi: 10.3390/gels11070487

Authors:
Anto Puljic
Konstantin Frank
Joel Cohen
Karine Otto
Josef Mayr
Andreas Hugh-Bloch
David Kuroki-Hasenöhrl

Hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers represent a cornerstone of modern esthetic medicine, providing a minimally invasive solution for facial volume restoration and skin rejuvenation. However, the diversity of available products, each utilizing distinct crosslinking technologies, presents a challenge for objective comparison and clinical decision making. This study introduces a scientific framework to evaluate and categorize the physicochemical properties of HA fillers based on two key parameter groups: dynamic parameters (e.g., rheology and gel content) and consistency parameters (e.g., extrusion force, water uptake, and gel particle size). Using standardized methodologies, 23 commercially available fillers from five major manufacturers were analyzed, enabling cross-technology comparisons. The findings reveal how specific crosslinking approaches influence the rheological behavior, handling characteristics, and potential clinical applications. By offering an integrated and reproducible assessment, this work helps practitioners select the most suitable filler for individualized treatment plans and encourages manufacturers to enhance product transparency through harmonized testing protocols.

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Anto Puljic www.mdpi.com