Injectable Collagen Stimulating Treatments


collagen stimulating treatments at Cheshire Lasers Clinic Middlewich


Dr Teri Johnson discusses her experience with injectable collagen-stimulating treatments at Cheshire Lasers Clinic Middlewich. She shares the available options for collagen-stimulating injections, their mechanisms of action, and what to expect from treatment.


What Makes Injectable Collagen Stimulators Special?

As we age, the natural production of collagen decreases, leading to wrinkles and loose, unforgiving skin formation. We also lose bone and fat in our face, which results in loss of volume and sagging. Collagen simulators can address many of these changes, delivering some fantastic results.

I fell in love with injectable collagen-stimulating treatments in 2008 when using Sculptra. This soon became my favourite treatment because of the way it stimulates our natural collagen production.  Sculptra is fantastic. It can create volume like a dermal filler and also improves skin quality. Within a few weeks of treatment, you can often see an improvement in the skin’s elasticity, hydration, firmness, and texture. A few months down the line, the results are even better.

Some collagen stimulators are only suitable for treating certain areas, whereas others are more flexible and can produce collagen wherever you inject them.

Depending on where you inject a Collagen stimulator, the effect is that if used deep, they replace volume and reposition tissues, but if placed in the skin, they improve skin quality.


Types of Injectable Collagen Stimulating Treatments:

Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA)

Poly-L-lactic Acid (e.g., Sculptra): is a biocompatible synthetic polymer that stimulates collagen production when injected into the skin. Sculptra is a popular PLLA filler that gradually improves skin texture and volume over multiple treatment sessions. Sculptra 150mg PLLA has been available the longest since 2004 but has been available since 2000 under the name of New-Fill. It is known for its natural, gradual results, lasting over two years.  In 2021, Lanluma was launched in the UK. It also contains PLLA. There are two types: Lanluma V: 210 mg for the face, which is like Sculptra, and Lanluma X: 630 mg  I for treating large body areas.

PLLA is injected in a suspension. After treatment, the skin looks plumped up for a day or two but quickly returns to normal over a few days.
The results are visible from six weeks and continue to develop over many months.
The results usually last over two years; improvements have been seen in some people with Sculptra up to five years later.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers (e.g., Radiesse): CaHA stimulates collagen production over time. Radiesse is made up of synthetic Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres (30%) suspended in a gel carrier (70%). The carrier gel is an aqueous gel that contains sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), glycerin and high-purity water. Radieese is a flexible product that can create Volume when used deep in the tissues and can improve the skin when injected under the skin. Radiesse is sometimes used off-label in a diluted or hyper-diluted solution to treat and improve skin laxity.

The gel gives an immediate short-term filling effect; over a few months, the gel slowly degrades collagen takes its place.
The results can last up to 24 months.

Polycaprolactone (PCL)

Polycaprolactone (PCL) Fillers (e.g., Ellansé): PCL is a bioresorbable polymer that promotes collagen synthesis and provides long-lasting results. Ellansé is a PCL filler available in different formulations, offering immediate volumisation and gradual collagen stimulation. Ellansé contains PolyCaproLactone (PCL) microspheres suspended in a carrier gel. The carrier gel consists of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) made from non-animal, human or bacterial sources. It has a license for treating volume loss and age-related wrinkles.

The gel gives an immediate short-term filling effect; over a few months, the gel slowly degrades, and collagen takes its place.
The results can last 18 to over 30 months.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Therapy, also known as Dracula Therapy, involves extracting a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate platelets and growth factors, and then injecting it back into the skin. PRP stimulates collagen production and promotes tissue regeneration, improving skin texture and tone.

This treatment is popular as it is natural, and no artificial products are used. After treatment, the skin is slightly swollen but returns to normal after a few days. The results from this treatment are fantastic for improving skin but can be subtle as the platelets do not stay in the skin as long as the other products. It is, therefore, not as good for creating volume unless you have a lot of treatments.
The results can last 6 to 12 months.

Profhilo

Profhilo contains high concentrations of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps maintain skin hydration and elasticity. When injected into the skin, Profhilo spreads evenly and stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin fibres through a process known as “remodelling.” This results in improved skin hydration, firmness, and overall rejuvenation. The product remains in the skin for about a month before fully breaking down, leaving behind your natural collagen.

Profhilo only improves the collagen within the skin. It has no effect on collagen production deep under the skin and has no filling / volumising effect.
The results can last 6 to 12 months.

Polynucleotides

Nucleofill, Plenhyage, and Plinest are all polynucleotide treatments that regenerate the skin by stimulating collagen and elastin growth. They also improve signs of ageing, reduce laxity and dehydration, as well as improve scars and some pigmentation. The body breaks down the polynucleotides quickly, but the cascade of collagen production can remain for some time after treatment. Polynucleotides appeal to people some people as the particles don’t hang around in your body for months like many of the other collagen stimulators available.

Polynucleotides are excellent for improving skin quality but are not recommended for filling or volumising.

Skin improvements are usually seen 7-10 days after treatment, and continues to improve for 3-4 weeks.

The results can last 6 to 12 months.

HarmonyCa Hybrid Dermal Filler and Collagen Stimulator

HarmonyCa is a two in one treatment combining a hyaluronic acid dermal filler and CaHa collagen stimulator. This treatment provides an immediate filing effect which lasts 6 to 18 months similar to other hyaluronic acid fillers combined with the long lasting collagen stimulating effect of CaHa found in Radiesse.

The results can last for 24 months.


Benefits of Injectable Collagen Stimulating Treatments:

  • Stimulate Natural Collagen Production
  • They target the root cause of skin ageing by promoting the body’s collagen synthesis.
  • Long-lasting Results: Injectable collagen stimulators gradually improve skin texture, volume, and elasticity.
  • The treatments are injectable and have minimal downtime.
  • Most treatments can address many concerns, including wrinkles, volume loss, and skin laxity.

Considerations and Safety:

Side Effects

While generally safe, injectable collagen stimulating treatments may cause temporary swelling, redness, bruising, or discomfort at the injection site.

Irreversibility

Some injectable collagen stimulators remain in the tissues for many months. If you have a side effect or reaction you can not dissolve the product.

This is the case for PLLA, CaHA and PLL the are the three products which are the best for creating volume. Lumps and bumps can develop after these three treatments if you do not massage the area for up to a week after treatment to prevent them. There is also a rare risk of delayed lumps and bumps occurring if the body immunity react to them at any time while the particles are still there.

Fortunately PRP, Profhilo and Polynucleotides are not prone to these issues.

Results are Variable

Different people create different amounts of collagen. Results for the collagen stimulators vary with some people creating a lot more collagen than others. Without trying the treatment it is difficult to predict how good a response you will get. Also some people respond to one treatment better than another.

Maintenance

Depending on the treatment, you will usually need multiple treatments to achieve optimal results, and periodic maintenance treatments if you want to sustain the benefits.


Conclusion:

Injectable collagen stimulating treatments offer an effective and minimally invasive approach to rejuvenating the skin and restoring a youthful appearance. By stimulating the body’s natural collagen production process, these treatments provide long-lasting improvements in skin texture, volume, and elasticity.

Whether you’re seeking to address wrinkles, volume loss, or skin laxity, consult with a qualified provider to explore the options available and embark on your journey to revitalized skin.


Interested in book an Injectable Collagen Stimulating Treatment?

Cheshire Lasers recommends you book a consultation so we can discuss the injectable collagen stimulators in more detail. We can discuss you concerns and what you hope to achieve from your treatment to help decide which treatment meets your needs.


Who performs these Treatments?

The following Doctors and Nurses Perform these injectable collagen stimulating treatments at Cheshire Lasers:

Dr Teri Johnson:

Sculptra, Radiesse, Harmonyca, Ellanse, Polynucleotides and Profhilo

Dr Drinnan

Harmonyca, Polynucleotides and Profhilo

Aesthetic Nurse Moira

Platelet -rich plasma (PRP) Therapy, Polynucleotides and Profhilo

Dr Hazlehurst

Polynucleotides and Profhilo


 

Intimate Dermal Fillers For Genital Rejuvenation


Intimate Genital labial Vaginal Dermal Filler.

Here at Cheshire Lasers, Moira Grobicki of Jouvence Aesthetics performs dermal fillers for genital rejuvenation. Moira has over 20 years of experience in genital sexual health work, including 16 years as a Sexual Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in the NHS.


Which Intimate areas do Dermal Fillers treat?

The treatment involves dermal filler injections into the outer lips of the vulva, known as the labia majorum and or the vagina. The treatment can benefit the entire vulva area, including the inner and outer labia, the clitoris, the urethra, and the vaginal opening.


Why Consider Dermal Fillers for the Genital Area?

Normal ageing, hormonal changes linked to menopause, weight variations, pregnancy and childbirth may all lead to a loss of volume and shape in the labia majora, affecting the appearance of the genital area.

As we age, the body starts to produce less collagen and elastin. Many women notice this change in their faces, and similar changes take place in the genital area.

The labia majora has a protective role as it covers the labia minora, the urethra and the vaginal opening. If the labia becomes thinner, it may lead to vaginal dryness, vulval discomfort, irritation and burning, plus sexual problems as intercourse may become painful. Certain exercises may also become uncomfortable, such as cycling or horse riding.

Common problems include:

  • Flattening or sagging of the labia 
  • Uneven labia (asymmetry) 
  • Poor vaginal lubrication
  • Discomfort during sex due to smaller labia majora 
  • Loss of confidence due to changes in appearance

Injecting special hyaluronic acid dermal fillers into the labia majora will increase the volume of the area to achieve a fuller, plumper appearance.  It can also correct asymmetries or any contour deficiency.


Which Dermal Fillers Improve the Genital Area

At Cheshire Lasers, Moira uses DESIRIAL® Plus, a hyaluronic acid-based injectable filler from Laboratoires VIVACY. It rejuvenates the labia majora to improve its appearance and function as well as promoting natural healing and cell regeneration. It also contains Mannitol, which has an antioxidant effect. 

DESIRIAL® Plus is indicated for women with moderate hypotrophy or atrophy (volume loss) of the vulvar labia majora.

Desirial Plus Intimate Genital labial Vaginal Dermal Filler.


What are the benefits of a Desirial Plus Treatment?

This treatment is sometimes called the Labial Puff treatment.

Benefits can include:

  • Evens out asymmetries in your labia
  • Improves the appearance of your vulva
  • Improves vaginal lubrication
  • Protects your labia minora, making sex more comfortable
  • Regenerates your vaginal walls, increasing sexual pleasure
  • Restores your sexual confidence
  • Reduce discomfort with certain exercise, such as cycling or horse riding.

What does a Desirial Plus Treatment involve?

The treatment involves injecting small amounts of hyaluronic acid dermal filler into the labia majorum and sometimes other key areas of the vulva. This then plumps, firms, and improves the structure of your labia and stimulates the regeneration of collagen and elastin cells to give a more youthful labia majora.

Depending on the problems you’ve been experiencing, the vaginal wall may also need treatment.  The treatment may be given alongside PRP Genital Rejuvenation, depending on your needs.

Aesthetic Nurse Moira uses a combination of topical creams and local anaesthetic injections to numb the areas before injecting the filler.

The entire treatment process usually takes around 30 minutes.

You won’t require any recovery time, so you can return to your normal schedule the same day.


Results and Maintenance:

Results will be noticeable in the labia immediately following the dermal filler treatment and continue to improve in the weeks to follow as your body rebuilds new collagen and elastin cells.

Most people require a single treatment session to get the desired results, which usually lasts 6-24 months.

You can arrange a repeat treatment as and when you require it to help prolong the results.


Post Procedure Advice

Avoid sex for five days following your labial puff treatment to give your body time to adjust. You can then resume your normal sexual activity.


Treatment Prices for Intimate Area Dermal Fillers

Moira Grobicki performs labial and vaginal Dermal fillers at Cheshire Lasers

She is an experienced and highly qualified Registered Nurse with over 20 years of experience in genital sexual health work, including 16 years as a Sexual Health Clinical Nurse Specialist in the NHS.

View More information about Moira and her Prices for Intimate Area Dermal Fillers here. 


 

PRP for Intimate Areas


intimate PRP Cheshire o shot p

Moira Grobiki’s Guide to Intimate PRP Treatments at Cheshire Lasers:

Moira was an NHS Clinical Nurse Specialist in Sexual Health for 16 years before specialising as an Aesthetic Nurse. Therefore, training in intimate PRP was a natural progression, allowing her to practice in her two areas of expertise here in Cheshire. She holds a BSc (Hons)  Diploma in Nursing and specialist sexual health and PRP training.


What is PRP?

PRP is short for Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy.

Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy is a non-surgical treatment that utilizes your own body’s healing abilities to stimulate skin and follicle recovery. It is a natural treatment that uses the platelets from your own blood. These activated platelets secrete and release at least seven different growth factors, which enhance the natural healing process of the skin and hair follicles. The growth factors & proteins activate stem cells and stimulate cellular repair and regeneration. In addition, collagen production and the formation of new blood vessels occur and further aid in tissue repair.

During a PRP Therapy treatment, Moira takes a small amount of blood like a standard blood test. The tube containing your blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the plasma and platelets from the other blood components. This PRP layer is what we inject into the treatment area using a small sterile needle.

PRP is frequently used to rejuvenate the face, scalp and body. Specialist nurses and doctors who are also trained in sexual health, gynaecology or urology are also using intimate PRP to help improve vaginal, vulval, urinary and penile function.

Find out more about PRP in general here.


Intimate Rejuvenation with PRP

PRP can help improve vaginal/vulval/urinary & penile function. It will improve many symptoms associated with natural ageing.

Women

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) can help to improve sexual health and function in women, including the ability to orgasm. It is sometimes known as the ‘O Shot’ and has been used for a number of years.

Childbirth, menopause, ageing and other natural factors change the health and anatomy of womens vulva, urethra & vagina. The resulting effects of vaginal laxity, dryness, painful sex, vulval and vaginal shrinking and tightening, stress incontinence,  episiotomy scar pain, and lack of orgasm. These effects fundamentally change the lives of women in a way that quite often is very difficult to share and discuss even with the closest of friends, meaning women often tolerate the symptoms & suffer in silence.

Women receiving the treatment report the following improvements after vaginal PRP:

  • Increased Blood supply to the area which can lead to increased stimulation and arousal
  • Increased ability to orgasm
  • More intense orgasms
  • Reduced pain during sex
  • Reduced pain at the episiotomy site
  • Improved continence

Labial PRP can also be used to improve vulval shrinkage and discomfort, improving the appearance and comfort of the vulva (this may also be used with specialist dermal fillers)

The treatment consists of taking a sample of your blood, spinning it in a machine to obtain the platelets, then injecting the platelets into the area between the bladder & the vagina and behind the clitoris. Only two injections are needed & numbing cream is used beforehand to reduce discomfort. Labial PRP to improve vulval appearance and comfort requires two injections into the vulva. 

Men

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) can help to improve sexual function, including the ability to orgasm. It is sometimes also known as the ‘P-Shot’ and is a relatively new treatment.

Most men occasionally fail to get or keep an erection. This is usually caused by stress, tiredness, anxiety or drinking too much alcohol, and it’s nothing to worry about. If it happens more often, it may be caused by physical or emotional problems.

Erectile dysfunction is common in men over 40 years old, with approximately 40 percent being affected to some degree.

PRP treatment promotes blood supply, production of growth hormones & healing to strengthen the area.

Men receiving the treatment report the following improvements after penile PRP:

  • Better overall blood flow to the penis                     
  • Stronger, firmer erections
  • Easier to achieve and maintain erections (i.e., improved sexual stamina)
  • Improvement in or resolution of penile curvature
  • Resolution of penile pain with erection
  • Increased sensitivity in the penis and increased ability to orgasm.

The treatment consists of taking a sample of your blood, spinning it in a machine to obtain the platelets, then injecting the platelets into the side of the penis. Moira then applies numbing cream to the treatment area. Once this has taken effect, most people require four injections to cover the treatment area.       


How many treatments will I need?

While responses to treatment vary, many people will require one session, which usually lasts 6-12 months.

There is no limit to the number of treatments you can have, some patients find repeat treatments every 3-6 months very beneficial.


How much is Intimate PRP at Cheshire Lasers?

The cost depends on the treatment areas please see below:


Intimate PRP – Vaginal

PRP injections into the genital area promote healing, increase collagen & strengthen ligaments. The treatment consists of only two injections. Vaginal PRP can improve vaginal dryness, painful sex, stress incontinence & sexual function (ability to orgasm).

Effects can last up to 6 months.

One treatment is £600

If Labial PRP added treatment cost is £900 for both treatments


Intimate PRP – Labial

Used to improve labial atrophy – as we age the labia may appear to shrink & diminish. PRP injections in the labial area increase collagen production, improves the labial skin and also improves the appearance of the labia.

One treatment is £600

If added to Vaginal PRP treatment cost is £900 for both treatments.


Intimate PRP- Penile

Treatment of the penile area can increase collagen production and also improve sexual function (ability to orgasm). Effects can last up to 6 months.

One treatment is £600


Find out more about Aesthetic Nurse Moira who performs this treatment here. 


Intimate PRP FAQ’s

Do I need to see a specialist?

The treatment is highly specialised and usually given by registered nurses and doctors who are also trained in sexual health, gynaecology or urology. Every patient requires a medical consultation and examination before the procedure to ensure that the treatment is appropriate for you.

Does it hurt?

We will use topical anaesthetic cream to numb the area before injections.

How many treatments and how often is this therapy needed?

While responses to treatment vary, most people will require one session, which usually lasts 6-12 months. There is no limit to the number of treatments you can have, some patients find repeat treatments every 3-6 months very beneficial.

Your practitioner will determine your treatment protocol according to your needs.

What results can I expect from PRP treatments?

Most people notice results 2-3 months after the first Intimate PRP treatment.

Are there possible side effects of PRP facial rejuvenation?

Minimal swelling and redness for 12-24 hours.

How long do results last?

Treatment results vary, however, in most patients the results last 6-12 months. Repeat treatments (every 3-6 months) will maintain the results.


 

Genital Skin Lesion Removal


advance electrolysis electrocautery cheshire

Jouvence Aesthetics offers a fully confidential cosmetic service for patients requiring the removal of genital skin lesions. The service is private & discreet and you do not need a referral from your GP.

Common genital lesions can be treated without having to see your GP or attend NHS Sexual Health Services. Although NHS Sexual Health services are free some patients prefer to use a discreet private service instead.

Who performs genital skin lesion removal at Cheshire Lasers?

Moira Grobicki performs all the genital skin lesion removal treatments at Cheshire Lasers Clinic.  Moira is a Registered Nurse and an Independent Prescriber, she has worked in NHS Sexual Health Services for 16 years as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and was the nurse manager for the hospital service in East Cheshire.

Which Genital Lesion can you remove?

Genital warts

These are usually treated with cryotherapy however there is a topical home treatment available.

Skin tags

These are usually removed with electrocautery

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum go on there own with time when the body creates antibodies and removes them on its own. However, some people prefer to treat them with cryotherapy or electrocautery for cosmetic reasons especially if they are causing concern or embarrassment.

Cysts

Moira can treat some cysts with electrocautery.
Moira has many years of experience treating these conditions as well as:
  • Genital Herpes (genital cold sores) lesions, usually treated with tablets. Which can require ongoing/ long term care and treatment.
  • Folliculitis and Itchy conditions, such as thrush or dermatitis.

How do I arrange an appointment for genital skin lesion removal?

You can book online here please select a consultation with Moira of Jouvence Aesthetics.
Book an appointment with Cheshire Lasers
If you require further information or you would like us to book your appointment please contact us.

How much is genital skin lesion removal?

It usually costs:
£120 to remove a simple skin lesion with Electrocautery.
£75 to remove a simple skin lesion with Cryotherapy however you may need more than one treatment for total clearance.
If you have a cluster of lesions, treatment of the additional lesions are at a reduced price.

Advanced Electrocautery Frequently Asked Questions


advance electrolysis electrocautery cheshire

 


What is Advanced Electrocautery?

Electrocautery, also known as diathermy, uses electrical energy to create heat at the tip of a small needle, which enables the precise removal of skin lesions.


What does the procedure involve?

Although slight local discomfort is felt during the heat application, it does not usually require a local anaesthetic. The procedure often lasts a matter of seconds; however, this depends on the type of skin lesion, its thickness and size. For lesions that take longer to treat, topical anaesthetic or local anaesthetic injection can be used.


How does the skin appear after Electrocautery?

The area at the base of the lesion will appear dark or black initially & slightly tender to the touch, and the area around it will usually be red and slightly swollen.

Over the following days, a crust or scab usually forms as the area dries out and this will then slough off over the next week.

It’s essential not to pick at any scabs to prevent scarring. Usually, the treatment area will return to normal after a few weeks, although scarring and discolouration is possible. This includes hypo or hyperpigmentation (skin becoming lighter or darker).

Depending on the nature of the lesion, more than one treatment may be necessary and this is usually repeated at regular intervals if required.

Possible side effects shortly after treatment:

Pain –

Diathermy is usually well-tolerated but can sometimes be uncomfortable during or after treatment.

Using your aftercare cooling gel will help to make the area feel less uncomfortable after treatment. Apply with a damp, clean cotton wool pad (pads & gel can be kept in the fridge to aid cooling).

Swelling, skin sensitivity and redness –

This is a normal immediate response to heating the skin & may last for 48 hours, depending on the lesion treated. For a short while the area may also ooze a watery fluid, which will then crust & dry.

Crusting or scabbing – this is also a common consequence of treatment and any crusting or scabbing will usually resolve over the next week. Itching may occur as the skin heals.

Infection –

Infection can occur, but this is uncommon. If it does occur, the discomfort usually increases, and the area may develop a discharge.  This will require treatment in the form of a topical antiseptic or antibiotic therapy.
If this occurs, it’s essential to let your Practitioner know as soon as possible so you can start treatment before it worsens.

Subsequent side effects:

Scarring –

Sometimes, the treated area may leave a small scar, which will fade over time.

Pigmentation changes –

The skin around the treatment site may lighten or darken in colour. This can occur in anyone but is much more common in people with darker skin tones. This usually improves with time but may be permanent.

Results are not always permanent –

This is more likely for some thread veins, which may refill over time and require further treatment.
Warts & skin tags can also reoccur, especially if you are susceptible to them.


Which Lesions Can Electrocautery Treat

Electrocautery/ Diathermy is excellent for treating skin tags, milia, sebaceous hyperplasia, seborrhoeic keratosis, some cysts and facial telangiectasia.

Aftercare following Electrocautery

It is important not to pick at the scab as this will encourage scarring.

A dressing or plaster is not usually necessary but may be advisable if the treated area is likely to be knocked or rubbed by clothing.

  • Avoid all perfumed products in the area until the skin has healed.
  • Avoid make-up/body lotion until the area is healed.
  • Use gentle soaps/cleansers & pat dry.
  • void flying for 48 hours following vascular treatment.
  • Salt water bathing will help if the skin feels irritated.
  • Avoid UV light directly on the area until it has healed. Consider covering the area or using a broad-spectrum sun cream with SPF50.
  • Avoid activities stimulating blood flow, e.g very hot baths/ showers, moderate exercise, hot/spicy foods, alcohol, saunas/steam rooms, and
  • Try to keep the area as dry as possible.
  • Avoid rubbing or irritation of the area.
  • Avoid facial treatments and waxing until the area has completely healed.

How much is Advanced Electrocautery

Aesthetic Nurse Moira performs advanced Electrocautery.

View more information about  Moira and all her up-to-date price list here.

As a guide, the treatment of one lesion with electrocautery is £140

Treatment of additional lesions at the same appointment costs an extra £80 per lesion.

Some skin lesions respond better to cryotherapy (cold therapy) may be the best treatment.

Cryotherapy tends to be less uncomfortable but may need two or more treatments a month apart for best results.

How do I book a treatment?

You have two options:

Book a consultation with Moira

She can assess your skin lesion/ concern. She can then diagnose your problem and advise you on further management and the costs.

Book a consultation and treatment on the day

To book, phone 01606 841255 or book your appointment with Moira online here:

Book an appointment with Cheshire Lasers