Do you want to be completely sure about what the BIO-related terms actually mean?
Then watch the video below, where MD Amanda Palmér, Medical Science Liaison at IBSA Nordic, gives you an overview of the differences.
The aesthetic medicine market is flooded with products, each claiming to deliver superior results. Among the many buzzwords in the industry, ‘BIO’ has become particularly prominent.
Terms such as biostimulator, biorevitalization, biocomplementation, and bioremodeling arc frequently used, often leading to confusion among clinicians.
As a result, many practitioners may be drawn to trending terminology rather than evaluating the physiological effects these products have on the skin.
A clear understanding of the underlying mechanisms of action is essential for categorizing aesthetic products effectively. This knowledge helps differentiate between various treatment options and supports informed decision-making based on their actual impact on skin physiology.
Among the components in Table 1, Hybrid Cooperative Complexes (HCC) and linear hyaluronic acid are known for their hydrating and antioxidant properties.
When selecting products that stimulate collagen production, it is crucial to consider the type of collagen being stimulated. The primary collagen types in the dermis are Type I and III, while the dermal-epidermal junction is composed mainly of Type IV and VII collagen.
Of all the components listed in Table 1, HCC is the only one proven to stimulate Type IV and VII collagen production, whereas most biostimulators primarily induce Type I collagen synthesis.
The products tailing under the category biostimulators promote collagen production through a controlled subclinical inflammatory response.
A study by Kim JS. published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, investigated the long-term effects of polycaprolactone (PCL) injections one year post-treatment. The findings revealed a persistent immune response, characterized by:
These findings underscore the importance of understanding how biostimulators interact with the immune system, allowing practitioners to make informed choices when selecting treatment modalities.
By prioritizing scientific evidence and mechanism-based selection, clinicians can ensure optimal results while avoiding the pitfalls of marketing-driven products and terminology.