What is Profhilo?
Profhilo is IBSA’s injectable product made of high-concentration hybrid hyaluronic acid complexes. It is used to support skin quality and is not designed to shape the face like a filler.
In Profhilo, hyaluronic acids of different molecular weights are combined into hybrid complexes. The manufacturer describes this structure as allowing the product to spread through the tissue and support hydration. According to the manufacturer, this is also what allows it to be placed through a small number of injection points. Unlike classic fillers, it is not used to add volume to an area or create contour.
Profhilo is often described as a skin booster or biorevitalisation product. The information here is neutral and for guidance only; it is not compared with other products in terms of superiority. Which product suits you is decided by the physician after examining your skin and discussing your goals. The packaging and batch number should be shared with you, and the licensing status of the product checked.
What is the BAP technique and how is treatment carried out?
The BAP (Bio Aesthetic Points) technique places the product as small deposits at five points on each side of the face, chosen away from major vessels and nerves. The product then spreads into the surrounding tissue.
On the day, the skin is cleansed, the points are marked and the product is placed with a fine needle or cannula. The BAP technique is commonly described as using five points on each side of the face; your physician may consider additional areas depending on your facial structure. Because there are few injections, treatment usually takes 15–30 minutes. A mild stinging and fullness may be felt briefly.
Small bumps are visible at the points immediately afterwards and usually flatten within 24 hours. Different layouts may be used for the neck, décolletage or backs of the hands, and whether these areas are appropriate is decided at consultation. If you are travelling to Istanbul, the timing of your second session and follow-up can be planned around your trip at the first appointment.
What can Profhilo do, and what can it not do?
It can gradually support hydration, elasticity and skin texture. It does not lift marked sagging, does not remove deep wrinkles on its own and does not replace lost volume.
Profhilo is mainly considered when skin is beginning to thin, lose hydration and lose elasticity. In some people it can help the skin look plumper, better hydrated and more rested. Changes are gradual; results are usually assessed a few weeks after the planned sessions and vary between individuals. Daily habits such as sun protection, adequate sleep and consistent skincare also influence how long results are maintained.
Noticeable jawline laxity, mid-face volume loss or deep static wrinkles are not problems Profhilo can solve alone. Dermal fillers, collagen stimulators, botulinum toxin or energy-based devices may be relevant in those situations, and Profhilo may sometimes form one supporting step within a wider plan. A realistic plan is put together with you at consultation.
Who may not be suitable?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding, active infection or cold sores in the area, known allergy to hyaluronic acid and certain medical conditions may mean treatment is postponed or not advised.
If there is active acne, a cold sore or infection at the injection points, treatment is postponed until it has healed. If you have ever reacted to a hyaluronic acid product, please let your physician know. Blood-thinning medicines and some supplements can increase bruising; do not stop any medication without medical advice. Recent laser, peels or injections should also be mentioned, as they can affect timing.
Elective injections are generally postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Autoimmune conditions and bleeding disorders are assessed separately, and if filler or another injectable was recently placed in the same area, timing is planned around it. If you are hoping for volume or lifting, other options are discussed openly. Suitability is decided by the physician.
How many sessions are needed, and what aftercare is advised?
An initial course of two sessions about four weeks apart is common, with maintenance timed according to your response. Avoiding make-up and massage on the first day is advised.
The commonly described starting plan is two sessions about four weeks apart, although a different plan may be suggested depending on age and skin type. Your skin’s response is observed between sessions and the plan adjusted if needed. Maintenance timing is agreed at your follow-up. How long results last varies between people, and no fixed duration can be predicted.
Avoiding make-up and not massaging the points on the first day, and avoiding saunas, hammams and strenuous exercise for a day or two, are commonly advised. Bruising, swelling and tenderness are frequent; infection, allergic reaction and nodules are less common. With any hyaluronic acid injection there is a small risk of injection into a blood vessel, so report unexpected pain or skin colour change promptly.
Frequently asked questions
Is Profhilo a filler?
No. Although it contains hyaluronic acid, it is used to support skin quality rather than to add volume or shape like a filler.
How long do the bumps last after Profhilo?
The small bumps at the injection points usually flatten within 24 hours. Any bruising may last a few days.
Can Profhilo be used on the neck?
The neck is among the areas that may be considered. The injection layout and suitability are decided at consultation.
How does Profhilo differ from salmon DNA treatments?
Profhilo contains hybrid hyaluronic acid complexes, whereas salmon DNA products contain polynucleotides. They are different product categories, and the physician makes the choice.
Can I have Profhilo while visiting Istanbul from abroad?
It is possible, but the second session and follow-up should be planned around your travel dates at your consultation.
Can I fly after Profhilo?
Flying after Profhilo is not a problem for most people, although some physicians suggest avoiding a long flight in the first 24–48 hours where possible. This gives the bumps at the points time to flatten and lets your physician assess any early reaction. Drinking plenty of water and not sleeping with your face pressed against the window or a pillow also helps.
Can Profhilo be used on the backs of the hands?
Yes, Profhilo is also considered for the backs of the hands, to support hydration and texture in skin thinned by age that shows veins and tendons more clearly. The hands need a different injection layout from the face. Profhilo does not fade sun spots or replace lost volume like a filler, so sun protection and, where needed, other methods are added to hand care.
How can I tell if Profhilo is genuine?
Genuine Profhilo comes as a pre-filled syringe in sealed packaging carrying IBSA’s manufacturer details, and the packaging should be opened in front of you before treatment. The batch number and expiry date on the box and syringe should match, and the batch should be recorded in your patient file. An unusually low price is a sign that the product’s source should be questioned.
How often should Profhilo be repeated?
After the first two sessions, Profhilo maintenance is usually planned every few months, often about every six months. The interval may be shorter or longer depending on age, skin type, sun exposure and how your skin responded to those sessions. Maintenance timing is set at follow-up rather than by the calendar; skin looking dry and dull again can be a sign it is due.
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This content is for general information and does not replace a personal medical assessment.