Radiesse (Calcium Hydroxyapatite)

Understanding Radiesse (Calcium Hydroxyapatite)

In the skin Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA) results in active physiologic remodelling of the extracellular matrix by stimulating a 2 step process, whereby collagen type I gradually replaces collagen type III. Increased elastin synthesis stimulated by CaHA also indicates active remodelling.

The injection of diluted CaHA into the buttocks and thighs has been shown to increase neocollagenesis, with the highest conversion of collagen type III into collagen type I occuring at 90 days.

CaHA is designed to be injected into deeper planes of the skin such as the subdermal layer. Injection of diluted CaHA more superficially can produce a yellowish discolouration of the skin, therefore in addition to increasing volume to atrophic striae, CaHA may also add color to provide a more natural appearance to white striae.