Restylane® and Perlane® are both hyaluronic acid injectable fillers. They are manufactured by the same company, Medicis Inc. Both are intended to be injected under the skin to provide volume, to stop the skin from sagging, and to smooth out wrinkles. However, there are some key differences between the two products.

Perlane

Perlane® was approved to smooth out moderate to severe lines and wrinkles, such as lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth. It is a highly cross-linked version of hyaluronic acid, meaning it is thick and resists dispersion after injection. The cross-linking also allows it to last longer after injection.

Restylane

Restylane® has also been approved to smooth out moderate to severe lines and wrinkles. Also, it has been approved for use in adding volume to the lips. It is not as highly cross-linked as Perlane®, meaning it is “runnier” and doesn’t last quite as long after injection.

Perlane vs. Restylane

The lower viscosity of Restylane® makes it ideal for sensitive areas with thin skin, such as around the eyes, around the mouth, and for use in the lips. In these areas, its propensity to flow allows it to create a very natural look. A thicker product such as Perlane® tends to create an unnatural over-full or lumpy look in thin-skinned areas. However, Perlane®’s resistance to flow makes it ideal for adding volume to the cheeks, chin, and lines running from the nose to the mouth. It is usually injected deeper into the skin than is Restylane®, making it the appropriate method for filling deep creases and adding volume to the face to help support sagging skin.

Duration

Restylane® can last about a year when injected under the skin, and six months when injected into the lips. Perlane® may last 4 to 6 months longer than Restylane®. However, there are individual differences between people that affect the duration of these products. Because hyaluronic acid can induce the skin to produce more collagen, repeated use of these products in the same locations require less filler with each injection, and the duration between injections can be prolonged.

Safety Issues

There is no difference in safety between Restylane® and Perlane®. They are both composed of hyaluronic acid, a compound that is naturally found in the skin and joints, so there is no risk of a severe reaction.

If you are interested in wrinkle reduction, contact Rao Dermatology. We are dedicated to helping patients attain their cosmetic goals and leaving them satisfied with the results. We will be able to help you decide whether Restylane® will be needed for your procedure. Make an appointment with us today.