Biostimulators such as Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) and Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) are widely used in aesthetic medicine to restore skin volume and improve skin quality by inducing collagen production. Among the various types of collagen synthesized in the skin, Types I and III are predominant and play distinct roles in skin structure and healing. Understanding how biostimulators influence the expression of these collagen types provides insight into their mechanisms of action and clinical efficacy.
Case Overview
In a clinical case involving patients undergoing biostimulation treatment with PLLA and CaHA, skin biopsies were analyzed to assess the expression levels of collagen Types I and III over a treatment course. Biopsies taken before treatment, at 3 months, and 6 months post-treatment revealed differential expression patterns that correlate with clinical improvements in skin firmness, elasticity, and texture.
Findings and Discussion
Collagen
Type I
Collagen
Type I is the most abundant collagen in mature skin, responsible for tensile
strength and structural support. Following biostimulator treatment, an increase
in Type I collagen expression was observed as early as 3 months post-injection,
contributing to enhanced skin firmness and resistance to mechanical stress.
This upregulation continued through 6 months, indicating sustained tissue
remodeling.
Collagen Type III
Collagen
Type III is primarily found in early wound healing and is associated with skin
elasticity and pliability. The case study showed a significant early increase
in Type III collagen expression at 3 months, which gradually normalized by 6
months as Type I collagen synthesis became predominant. This suggests that
biostimulators may initially promote a reparative, elastic matrix before
stabilizing into a more robust structural framework.
Clinical Implications
The
temporal pattern of collagen synthesis initially favoring Type III followed by
sustained Type I production, aligns with natural skin repair processes.
Biostimulators harness this physiological mechanism, offering patients improved
skin quality and rejuvenation with results that evolve over several months.
Recognizing these dynamics can guide clinicians in treatment planning and
patient education regarding expected timelines for visible improvement.
Conclusion
This
clinical case highlights that biostimulation treatments effectively modulate
collagen synthesis by promoting a sequential increase in collagen Types III and
I. Such modulation supports both immediate improvements in skin elasticity and
long-term enhancement of skin strength and structure. These findings reinforce
the rationale for using biostimulators in skin rejuvenation protocols.