Know about cross-linking agent
As the need of hyaluronic acid dermal filler injection is growing rapidly, more and more people need inject hyaluronic acid to get back to the youthful appearance of correct the facial flaws. Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide naturally present in human tissues, known for its excellent moisturizing and filling properties. It is commonly used in the field of medical aesthetics, such as filling facial wrinkles and increasing lip fullness. However, you may wonder, what is cross-linking agent? Which is usually seen in dermal filler products. This article is going to tell you what is cross-linking agent.
The usage of cross-linking agent?
The crosslinking agent in hyaluronic acid is a chemical substance used to alter the way hyaluronic acid molecules are connected, thereby increasing their stability and longevity. Currently, there are two commonly used hyaluronic acid crosslinking agents: BDDE (1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether), DVS (1,4-divinylbenzene). Non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid can only be maintained in the human body for 2 to 7 days, and is quickly degraded into water and carbon dioxide under the action of various enzymes. To prolong its existence in the body, hyaluronic acid must be cross-linked to form larger molecules. And that requires the use of cross-linking agent. The main function of the crosslinker is to convert hyaluronic acid from liquid to gel state, and to bridge the linear molecules of hyaluronic acid, so that hyaluronic acid forms a three-dimensional network structure of substances.
The addition of crosslinking agents can make hyaluronic acid more durable and long-lasting, so it can often be seen in some medical beauty products. According to size, concentration and use, hyaluronic acid is roughly divided into three categories: small molecules, medium molecules and large molecules.
What is the difference between BDDE and DVS?
The difference between BDDE (1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether) and DVS (1,4-divinylbenzene) crosslinking agents lies in their chemical structures and functionalities.
Chemical Structure:
BDDE is a bifunctional crosslinking agent containing two epoxide groups, which can react with hydroxyl groups on hyaluronic acid molecules to form crosslinks.
DVS is also a bifunctional crosslinking agent, but it contains two vinyl groups, which undergo addition reactions with hydroxyl groups on hyaluronic acid, leading to crosslink formation.
Crosslinking Effect:
Some studies suggest that DVS-crosslinked hyaluronic acid may exhibit higher crosslink density and greater stability, but it may also potentially induce higher immune responses in certain cases.
BDDE-crosslinked hyaluronic acid is more widely used in the market and is generally considered to have good stability and safety profiles.
Clinical Application and Research:
BDDE-crosslinked hyaluronic acid products have been widely used in the field of medical aesthetics and are supported by numerous clinical studies demonstrating their safety and efficacy.
DVS-crosslinked hyaluronic acid products have also been utilized in some markets, but there is relatively less clinical research and practical experience with them.
Warning
When considering cosmetic injections, it is important to ensure that you choose a professional institution and that the injections are administered under the guidance of a qualified physician. Qualified doctors use high quality products and strictly follow health and safety standards. They will take the necessary steps to ensure that the risk of infection and complications is minimised.
