Written by Kerri Otto, PA-C
If you have frequented Sutton Ryan Aesthetic Center recently, you have most likely heard us all talking about our newest product, HA5. This product has quickly become one of my “must-have” products and I wanted to take just a few minutes to explain why this is the case.
As a medical provider, I look for validation of a product by clinical research, or essentially proof that the product does what the company says it should. In the January 2016 issue of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, the results of a study evaluating SkinMedica’s HA5 were discussed. Here is a quick overview of this company’s newest skin enhancing product.
A significant characteristic of young skin is its ability to retain water. As we age, this ability decreases. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a key molecule involved in maintaining hydration of the skin. We have been using hyaluronic acid to increase the appearance of the skin in the form of fillers (Juvederm, Restylane) injected into the dermal layers of the skin for many years. This is a very important part of helping the skin to retain its youthful appearance.
Hydration of the first layer of skin (epidermis) is also important for maintaining youth and the integrity of the skin. Until now, this has not been achievable due to the inability of topical HA products being able to penetrate the skin. The key properties of HA5 include a breakthrough technology termed VitisenSCE and the combination of five different forms of HA. These properties have allowed absorption of the product, thus enabling the top layer of the skin to remain hydrated. Although there are several topical HA products on the market, SkinMedica’s HA5 is the only HA product that has the capability of true absorption into the epidermis.
The results of the study exemplified statistically significant improvements in fine lines/wrinkles as well as tactile roughness WITHIN 15 MINUTES of application to the skin! The long term effects of HA5 were evaluated at weeks 1, 4, and 8 and showed:
1). Ninety-six percent of subjects noticed an improvement in the smoothness and softness of their skin after one week of twice daily use.
2). Eighty-eight percent of subjects agreed that HA5 increased skin radiance and softened the appearance of lines at week 4.
3). Eighty-seven of subjects stated their skin felt rejuvenated by week 8.
Along with the above, skin moisture content was measured by corneometer instrumentation and also showed a statistically significant improvement. The statistics from this study as well as my own personal observations with the product (I have been using it faithfully twice a day since January), have made me a firm believer in this product. If you are looking for an adjunct to your skincare regimen that will help achieve superior hydration, radiance and enhance your regular dermal filler sessions, HA5 is the product for you!
