Profhilo vs Skin Boosters: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?

​

If you are researching injectable skin treatments, you will have probably discovered Profhilo and skin boosters. While they are often grouped together, they work differently and are suited to different skin concerns.

In this guide, we will explain:

​

• What Profhilo is

• What skin boosters are

• How they work

• The key differences

• Who is suitable for each treatment

​​

What Is Profhilo?

​

Profhilo is an injectable treatment made from highly purified hyaluronic acid (HA). Unlike dermal fillers, Profhilo does not add volume or structure. Instead, it spreads beneath the skin to improve overall skin quality.

Profhilo works by stimulating the production of:

​

• Collagen

• Elastin

• ​

This improves skin firmness, elasticity, hydration, and texture.

​

How Profhilo Is Administered?

​

Profhilo is typically injected using a specific 5-point technique on each side of the face. The treatment usually requires:

​

• 2 sessions

• 4 weeks apart

​​

Results gradually develop over 4–8 weeks.

​

What Profhilo Treats

​

Profhilo is ideal for:

​

• Skin laxity (mild sagging)

• Crepey skin

• Dull or tired looking skin

• Early signs of ageing

• Loss of firmness

​​

It is commonly used on the:

​

• Face

• Neck

• Décolletage

• Hands

​​

What Are Skin Boosters?

​

Skin boosters are injectable treatments designed primarily to deeply hydrate the skin and improve its texture.

Like Profhilo, they contain hyaluronic acid. However, skin boosters are usually injected more superficially and are designed to target hydration and fine lines rather than stimulate significant collagen remodelling.

There are different brands of skin boosters available, and they vary in thickness and longevity.

​

How Skin Boosters Are Administered?

​

Skin boosters are typically injected using:

• Multiple small micro-injections across the treatment area
  or

• A cannula technique, depending on the product used

​​

Most patients require:

​

• 2–3 sessions

• 3–4 weeks apart

​​

Maintenance treatments are usually recommended every 6–9 months.

​

What Skin Boosters Treat

​

Skin boosters are particularly effective for:

• Dehydrated skin

• Fine lines

• Rough skin texture

• Acne scarring (mild)

• Tired or dull skin

​​

They are often used on:

​

• Face

• Under-eyes

• Neck

• Hands

​​

Profhilo vs Skin Boosters: Key Differences

Although both treatments improve skin quality, they are not the same.

​

1. Purpose

Profhilo

• Focuses on improving skin laxity and firmness

• Stimulates collagen and elastin production

Skin Boosters

• Focus primarily on deep hydration

• Improve surface texture and fine lines

​​

2. Injection Technique

Profhilo

• Fewer injection points

• Product spreads widely under the skin

Skin Boosters

• Multiple small injections across the area

• More targeted placement

​​

3. Best For Ageing Skin?

Profhilo is often better suited for patients noticing:

• Skin thinning

• Loss of firmness

• Mild sagging

Skin boosters are often better for:

• Younger patients

• Early fine lines

• Dehydrated or dull skin

​​

4. Results Timeline

Both treatments require a course of sessions, but:

• Profhilo results become noticeable over several weeks as collagen stimulation occurs

• Skin boosters can improve hydration relatively quickly, often within 1–2 weeks

​​

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

The right choice depends on your primary concern.

​

Choose Profhilo If You:

• Feel your skin is becoming looser or less firm

• Want subtle lifting without adding volume

• Prefer a treatment that stimulates long-term collagen

​​

Choose Skin Boosters If You:

• Have dehydrated or dull skin

• Want smoother texture

• Are targeting fine lines

• Are looking for a glow-enhancing treatment

In some cases, treatments can be combined as part of a personalised plan.

​

Can Profhilo and Skin Boosters Be Combined?

​

Yes, but not usually at the same time.

A practitioner may recommend:

• Profhilo to improve structure and firmness

• Skin boosters later to enhance hydration and texture

Treatment planning should always be based on a full consultation and skin assessment.

​

Are They the Same as Dermal Fillers?

No.

Dermal fillers:

• Add volume

• Contour facial features

• Replace lost structure

​​

Profhilo and skin boosters:

• Improve skin quality

• Do not significantly change facial shape

• Provide subtle, natural-looking improvements

​​

If you are looking for cheek volume or lip enhancement, dermal filler would be more appropriate.

​

Are These Treatments Safe?

​

Both Profhilo and skin boosters are considered safe when administered by a qualified and experienced medical professional - only our team of doctors carry out these treatments at SE1 Medical.

​

Common side effects may include:

• Mild swelling

• Bruising

• Redness

• Small injection bumps (temporary)

​​

A full consultation is essential to determine suitability and discuss risks.

​

How Long Do Results Last?

Profhilo:

• Typically lasts around 6 months

• Maintenance is usually recommended twice yearly

​​

Skin Boosters:

• Typically last 6–9 months depending on the product used

• Maintenance treatments are recommended

​​

Longevity varies depending on:

• Age

• Skin condition

• Lifestyle

• Smoking status

• Sun exposure

​​

Final Thoughts: Profhilo vs Skin Boosters

​

While both treatments improve skin quality, they serve different purposes.

​

• Profhilo is best for improving firmness and skin laxity.

• Skin boosters are best for hydration and surface texture.

​​

Neither treatment dramatically changes facial shape, making them ideal for patients seeking natural, subtle rejuvenation.

The best way to decide is through a professional consultation where your skin concerns, goals, and medical history can be properly assessed.