Many women use injectable hydration treatments to replenish skin moisture and delay aging. However, our experts point out that hydration injections may increase the burden on the kidneys. Is this true?
Injectable hydration far surpasses topical moisturizers in effectiveness
According to cosmetic specialists, hyaluronic acid possesses exceptional water-retaining properties. Recognized as nature's most potent moisturizing agent, it is hailed as an ideal natural moisturizing factor. It enhances skin nutrition and metabolism, resulting in softer, smoother skin, reduced wrinkles, increased elasticity, and anti-aging benefits. Beyond hydration, it also acts as an excellent transdermal absorption enhancer.
Hyaluronic acid typically exists as a gel-like substance within the skin's dermal tissue, where it stores moisture and increases skin volume. It possesses sponge-like water-absorbing capabilities, with one molecule of hyaluronic acid able to bind approximately 500 times its weight in water molecules. If collagen is the elastic fiber network of the skin, hyaluronic acid is its reservoir of water. Consequently, most moisturizing masks, creams, and serums contain hyaluronic acid.
The hydrating and moisturizing effects of injectable hyaluronic acid far surpass those of topical skincare products containing it. This is because the skin's natural barrier function acts as a barrier against relatively large molecules like hyaluronic acid and collagen. When applied topically, these substances are often naturally "blocked" by the skin and struggle to be absorbed, resulting in limited efficacy.Injected hyaluronic acid, however, is a purified form. Once injected, it stimulates collagen production, promotes skin repair, and directly binds with the skin's existing hyaluronic acid in the dermis. This enhances the skin's ability to absorb and retain moisture. Consequently, even a small amount of injected hyaluronic acid can achieve perfect hydration and sustainably maintain the skin's moisture balance.
One injection provides lasting hydration for six months to a year.
Hyaluronic acid injections for hydration differ slightly from those for wrinkle filling, primarily in injection location and depth. Depending on skin aging, laxity, and dryness levels, hydration injections can target the dermis or subcutaneous layer. Generally, deeper layers are used for more aged skin, while younger skin responds well to subcutaneous injections.Hyaluronic acid injections for hydration and moisture retention can be administered across the entire face, in specific facial areas, or tailored to individual needs on the neck, hands, chest, etc.
Once injected, the hydrating hyaluronic acid is gradually absorbed by the body. Depending on individual metabolism, results typically last six months to one year.
Precautions
Avoid water contact for 4 hours post-injection. Refrain from touching the injection site and do not apply ice or heat packs.
Avoid spicy, irritating foods, tobacco, and alcohol for several days after treatment, as these may shorten the hydration and moisturizing effects.
Avoid environments with extreme temperature fluctuations. Research indicates significant temperature differences can damage skin health.Extreme temperature fluctuations cause significant skin dehydration, posing greater harm than intense sun exposure. Therefore, avoid saunas for one week post-treatment. Additionally, minimize the temperature difference between air-conditioned rooms and outdoor environments to preserve treatment efficacy.
Consume foods rich in chondroitin sulfate, such as chicken skin, shark fin, and fish heads. These promote collagen, hyaluronic acid, and moisture production, enhancing skin elasticity.
Doctor's Perspective
Hydration Injections Carry Certain Risks
Plastic surgery specialists note that "hydration injections" or "hydration boosts" are not cosmetic procedures but medical treatments. While they lack the risks of surgical complications, they still involve various hidden dangers.Hyaluronic acid, the primary material used in hydration injections, offers excellent hydration and moisturizing effects. It is favored by cosmetic doctors because it is absorbed by the body post-injection. However, its use still carries certain risks.
When undergoing hydration injections, individual suitability must be carefully considered.For instance, areas with skin diseases, inflammation, or related symptoms should be avoided during hyaluronic acid treatment. Furthermore, no clinical studies have been conducted on pregnant or breastfeeding women, so injections are not recommended for these groups. Additionally, individuals with compromised immune systems or undergoing immunosuppressive treatments face increased infection risks from such injections.
Excessive injections may strain the kidneys
Nutrition experts note that while hyaluronic acid is marketed as a naturally occurring substance in the body, the injectable form primarily consists of non-animal, stable hyaluronic acid produced through bacterial fermentation. This differs slightly from the body's natural hyaluronic acid. Although the body can metabolize and absorb it, excessive injections may still burden the kidneys. Individuals with impaired kidney function should exercise caution.
Additionally, during injection, the needle may accidentally puncture a blood vessel, disrupting blood flow and causing temporary discoloration at the injection site. If tissue necrosis occurs, it may lead to scarring. Therefore, injectable hyaluronic acid should be avoided near the eyes.