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What Is Profhilo? | A Doctor Explains the Effects, Costs, and Downtime
| Sessions | Regular Price | Special Price | Per 1 cc Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 session (2cc) | 52,800 yen | 49,800 yen | 24,900 yen |
| Set of 2 (2cc x 2) | 99,600 yen | 95,600 yen(47,800 yen per session) | 23,900 yen |
| Set of 3 (2cc x 3) | 139,800 yen | 137,400 yen(45,800 yen per session) | 22,900 yen |
"What exactly is Profhilo, and what kind of results can I expect from it?"
"I'm researching clinics for Profhilo and want to compare things like pricing."
Hello, I am a doctor at Smart Skin Clinic, an aesthetic dermatology clinic.
Do you have any of these questions or concerns?
So that questions like these are answered, Smart Skin Clinic, an aesthetic dermatology clinic, explains them clearly from a professional standpoint.
*If you want to know specific information such as pricing, you can jump to it from the table of contents below.
Group Chief Director, Smart Skin Clinic Group
Ishii Kota
Career
Graduated from Juntendo University School of Medicine
Worked at Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital and affiliated facilities
Worked at a major aesthetic clinic in Tokyo
Affiliations / Qualifications
Board-certified specialist, Japan Surgical Society
Board-certified specialist, Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
What is the next-generation hyaluronic acid "Profhilo"?
Profhilo is an injectable formulation containing a high concentration of two types of hyaluronic acid — high-molecular-weight and low-molecular-weight. Because these two types of hyaluronic acid are not cross-linked, Profhilo is called a non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid product.
Hyaluronic acid has the following properties.
- Moisturizing effect
- Promotes tissue repair and regeneration
- Supports cell movement
- Regulates cell proliferation and differentiation
Thanks to these properties of hyaluronic acid, Profhilo is designed to improve skin elasticity and firmness and refine skin texture, supporting overall skin rejuvenation.
Differences from ordinary hyaluronic acid
With conventional hyaluronic acid injections, bone and fat volume lost with age was "filled in" with hyaluronic acid to refine facial contours and improve wrinkles and nasolabial folds.
It targets specific areas such as the under-eyes, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines; the injected hyaluronic acid stays within the treatment area, filling in lost fat and lifting ligaments.
First, hyaluronic acid is a substance distributed not only in the skin but throughout many parts of the body.
There are two types of hyaluronic acid: "cross-linked hyaluronic acid" and "non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid."
The hyaluronic acid found within the body is "non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid," while the hyaluronic acid preparations traditionally used in aesthetics are "cross-linked hyaluronic acid."
"Cross-linking" refers to bonding strands of hyaluronic acid together so that they do not separate.
In other words, the difference between cross-linked and non-cross-linked is whether the hyaluronic acid strands are "bonded" to one another.
Conventional hyaluronic acid preparations are used to add volume and shape contours. Noting that hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in the body and therefore less likely to cause adverse reactions, manufacturers combined it with a production technique called cross-linking. Because cross-linked hyaluronic acid is resistant to breakdown in the body and holds its shape, conventional hyaluronic acid preparations can add volume and shape contours. Because it has solid-like properties, it carries a risk of vascular embolism.
By contrast, non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid has the same characteristics as the hyaluronic acid naturally present in the body and diffuses widely when injected. In other words, non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid improves skin quality by spreading the effects of hyaluronic acid — such as moisturizing and cell activation — throughout the skin.
Recipient of various awards
Profhilo is a product that has received various awards in aesthetic medicine around the world.
Recommended if you have any of these concerns
- Wanting to do something about wrinkles and sagging
- Skin lacks firmness
- Wanting a little more volume in the cheeks
- Concerned about wrinkles not only on the face but also on the neck and hands
- Wanting a natural finish so no one can tell anything was done
- Concerned about nasolabial folds
Effect | Profhilo has a skin-rejuvenating effect
Profhilo offers the following benefits.
〇 Improvement of wrinkles and sagging
〇 Improvement of firmness and elasticity (enhanced, dewy skin)
〇 Lifting effect
〇 Natural volume enhancement
These effects are achieved through the following properties of hyaluronic acid.
- Moisturizing effect
- Promotes tissue repair and regeneration
- Supports cell movement
- Regulates cell proliferation and differentiation
We will explain these properties using the cross-sectional view of the skin below.
The skin consists of three layers, each with its own role.
- Epidermis | Barrier function
- Dermis | Governs firmness and elasticity
- Subcutaneous tissue | Insulation and warmth functions
- Moisturizing effect
Hyaluronic acid has the ability to attract and hold large amounts of moisture in the skin. Once injected into the skin, hyaluronic acid absorbs surrounding moisture and brings hydration deep into the skin. This plumps the skin from within, smooths the surface, and improves fine lines and roughness caused by dryness. - Promotes tissue repair and regeneration
In the skin, hyaluronic acid activates fibroblasts in the dermis. As a result, the production of new collagen and elastin is stimulated, supporting the recovery of damaged skin and skin regeneration. This treatment, in which damaged skin undergoes tissue repair and recovery, is called ECM remodeling treatment.
First, ECM stands for "extracellular matrix," which refers to the spaces surrounding the cells.
ECM remodeling treatment means remodeling (rebuilding) this area outside the cells — in other words, treatment that newly creates it. The cells referred to here are fibroblasts, and the spaces outside the fibroblasts refer to collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, and the like.
Since this is abstract and hard to grasp, we will explain it in concrete terms to make it easier to understand.
First, skin firmness, elasticity, and suppleness are created by collagen and elastin — fibrous tissues in the dermal layer — and by gel-like hyaluronic acid that fills the gaps between them. And it is fibroblasts that produce all three of these tissues.
Collagen
Elastic fibrous tissue that serves as the skin's foundation, forming a three-dimensional mesh-like framework.
Elastin
It gives the skin elasticity, keeping it flexible enough to return to its original shape even as it stretches and contracts with facial movements. It also holds collagen fibers together so they do not come apart, helping to maintain collagen's three-dimensional framework.
Hyaluronic acid
A substance that fills the gaps between fibrous tissues such as collagen and elastin. It strongly attracts water, and when bound with water it swells into a gel, playing a central role in maintaining the skin's elasticity and moisture.
Fibroblasts
They produce collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. Fibroblasts themselves also divide and proliferate.
In other words, the more fibroblasts, collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid there are, the younger and healthier the skin.
Skin sags due to factors such as aging and UV exposure. With age, the number of skin-producing cells (fibroblasts) declines and their function weakens. UV rays also break down fibrous tissues such as collagen and elastin.
When hyaluronic acid stimulates fibroblast activity, collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid are increased and damaged tissue is repaired. The proliferation of fibroblasts themselves is also encouraged. As a result, the skin regains elasticity and firmness from within and becomes healthier.
This treatment, in which the weakened dermal layer is rebuilt by activating fibroblasts in this way, is called ECM remodeling treatment.
- Supports cell movement
Hyaluronic acid is an important component of the ECM (extracellular matrix — the spaces between cells within the skin). When the skin's interior is enriched with hyaluronic acid, it makes it easier for cells such as immune cells to migrate and move. It also helps deliver nutrients and oxygen to cells in the dermis and supports the removal of waste products. This effect promotes skin recovery and helps restore a more even, healthy skin texture. - Regulates cell proliferation and differentiation
Hyaluronic acid has the effect of regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. The specific mechanism is too complex and technical to cover here, but hyaluronic acid provides signals that promote the proliferation of skin cells and their differentiation in the correct direction. This encourages the creation of new skin cells and supports skin rejuvenation.
When can the effects be felt after treatment?
When can the effects be felt after treatment?
Dr. IshiiHow soon the effects are felt varies from person to person, but they are often felt gradually from a few days to a few weeks after the injection. The maximum effect is usually felt around one month after the injection.
How long do the effects last?
How long do the effects last?
Dr. IshiiThey are said to last from about 6 months to 1 year. For lasting results, we recommend regular injections for maintenance.
Profhilo's characteristic | Penetrating power that reaches deep and wide in multiple directions
So far we have explained the properties of hyaluronic acid. Here, we will explain the characteristics of Profhilo, which also incorporate those properties of hyaluronic acid.
Penetrating power that reaches deep and wide in multiple directions"
This is what makes Profhilo distinctive.
Profhilo is a special formulation of two types of hyaluronic acid, using NAHYCO™, a technology internationally patented by IBSA of Italy.
High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid hydrates the surface layers of the skin, while low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid penetrates deep and delivers its effects there. Thanks to these two different molecular types of hyaluronic acid, Profhilo has the characteristic of reaching a wider area and deeper — across the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue.
This penetrating power is strong even compared with other non-cross-linked hyaluronic acids, reaching deeper layers.
Through this penetrating power, the action of hyaluronic acid is thought to reach the subcutaneous fat in the subcutaneous tissue, making the skin healthier and plumper.
What is the difference between Profhilo and Volite?
What is the difference between Profhilo and Volite?
Dr. IshiiVolite is also a type of hyaluronic acid, but the major difference is the presence or absence of cross-linking. Volite is a cross-linked hyaluronic acid. Although cross-linked, it is designed through a special manufacturing process to spread naturally and achieve an even distribution.
Some of the characteristics of Volite include the following.
Effective for fine expression lines on the face and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth
Brings firmness and moisture to the skin, contributing to a more youthful appearance
Long-lasting effect and a natural finish
No ECM remodeling effect, so it does not improve skin firmness and elasticity or support skin conditioning
Being a cross-linked hyaluronic acid, it carries risks and side effects such as vascular embolism
Case photos (before/after)
Profhilo Injection Side Effects and Risks
Because Profhilo contains no chemicals such as cross-linking agents and no biological agents,it can be considered highly safe..
Specifically,it is less likely to cause allergic reactions and the like.That is the point.
The reason for this is that Profhilo contains no "cross-linking agent."
Cross-linking agents may cause allergic reactions, immune reactions, and inflammation. Although very infrequent, allergic reactions have been reported. Conventional hyaluronic acid injectables contain a substance called a cross-linking agent.
It is the creation of new chemical bonds that bridge chain-like strands of hyaluronic acid together. As a result of cross-linking, hyaluronic acid takes on a three-dimensional structure. This three-dimensional structure slows the absorption and breakdown of hyaluronic acid at the injection site, giving it a longer-lasting effect.
Also,Profhilo's high level of safety has been noted in several published papers.
Based on three years of post-market experience, the safety profile of the medical device in this study is favorable.
Daniel Cassuto, et al. (2020) Safety Assessment of High- and Low-Molecular-Weight Hyaluronans (Profhilo®) as Derived from Worldwide Postmarketing Data. Biomed Res Int.
Possible side effects include the following.
At the needle puncture site:
Redness, swelling, pain, edema, temporary raised bumps
Bruising
Drawbacks of Profhilo injections
Profhilo has no major drawbacks worth noting. The minor drawbacks are as follows.
- The effects are not permanent, so repeated treatments are needed to maintain results.
- The effects of Profhilo vary from person to person.
- Temporary redness and swelling may occur after injection. These usually resolve within a few days but may affect appearance right after the treatment.
- The cost is high. Profhilo itself is an expensive product, so the general market price runs about 80,000–150,000 yen for one session and 150,000–300,000 yen for two.
The drawbacks of Profhilo are explained in detail in this article.
Treatment Area / Method
Profhilo isthe BAP technique (bio-aesthetic point technique)injected using this designated method.
It is said that standardizing the areas to be injected makes it possible to achieve effective and even results.
10 points each on the face or neck.
These 10 points are centered on the lower third of the face, where skin tends to atrophy with age, and are areas considered anatomically safe, without large blood vessels or nerves.
*Additional note
Because Profhilo has a "spreading" property, treating just 10 injection points is sufficient. Specifically, once injected the effect spreads about 2cm square from each injection site, so the injection method above has been shown to deliver sufficient results.
A small, shallow amount of 0.2cc is injected per point. One vial (2cc) is used per treatment.
Facial injection sites
Neck injection sites
Injection sites on the backs of the hands
Which layer is it injected into?
Injectable formulations vary in both their ingredients and intended purposes.
Therefore, it is extremely important to administer each formulation at the appropriate “depth” and “volume” to ensure optimal results.
In the case of Profhilo, the main injection layer is the "deep dermis."
The skin has a layered structure, from the surface inward: the "epidermis," the "dermis" (superficial, middle, and deep layers), the "subcutaneous fat layer," and the "muscle layer," each playing a different role. The deep dermis lies at the deepest part of the dermis and is the layer that forms the skin's foundation, supporting its structure and elasticity.
The deep dermis is the layer where Profhilo's ingredients and intended effects can be drawn out most fully, and this is the medical rationale for injecting this formulation into that layer at our clinic.
Profhilo Body, the body-dedicated Profhilo
Around the middle of 2023, a body-dedicated Profhilo formulation was introduced in Japan.
Profhilo could also be injected into the body, but Profhilo Body is dedicated to the body and is a formulation optimized for it.
It can be applied anywhere on the body, with especially recommended areas being the décolleté, the backs of the hands, and the abdomen.
If you are interested in the details, please also take a look at the article below.
Recommended number / frequency of treatments | Treatment schedule
The recommended number of treatments and the timing of the third session are as follows.
- After the first injection,about 4 to 6 weeksit is recommended to space them out and perform a set of 2 treatments.
- For the third session and beyond, it is recommended to either repeat the same pattern once a year or receive maintenance injections every six months.
Profhilo at Smart Skin ClinicOur characteristic | Our "attention to detail" with injectable formulations
Following our director's philosophy, we perform injections with the following "attention to detail."
Who cannot receive this treatment
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Those with abnormal immune function or a history of it, and those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy
Those prone to keloid formation, hypertrophic scarring, or pigmentation disorders
Those with a bleeding tendency, or those taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or anticoagulants such as warfarin
Those with excessive sunburn, eczema, dermatitis, severely inflamed acne, or scabs at the Profhilo injection site
Downtime
As a general guide, expect bulging, redness, and swelling at the injection site for about one to two days (typically within 24 hours, up to 48 hours at most).
With non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, the injection site is only slightly raised right after injection, and even that swelling is said to be absorbed within 48 hours.
The above generally holds true, but there is a small (a few percent) chance of "bruising."
When you bump part of your body hard, you may develop a "bruise." That is bruising. Medically, blood vessels within the skin rupture, blood leaks out, and it congeals within the skin.
Whether or not this occurs is influenced by the following two factors, so please understand that it is difficult to prevent 100% of the time.
- The physician's skill
- The individual's physical characteristics
If bruising occurs, it gradually fades over one to two weeks.
Dr. IshiiThe reaction after injection is relatively minor, and you can apply makeup right after the treatment, so if you wear a mask you can go about your day without worrying about how it looks.
Our Profhilo treatment pricing
The injection site and volume for Profhilo are standardized under the BAP technique*, and one vial (2cc) is used per treatment. In other words, the amount of Profhilo used in a single treatment is essentially the same at any clinic, making it simple to compare treatment details and prices.
*There may be slight individual differences, and customized treatment is sometimes provided.
Profhilo
| Sessions | Regular Price | Special Price | Per 1 cc Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 session (2cc) | 52,800 yen | 49,800 yen | 24,900 yen |
| Set of 2 (2cc x 2) | 99,600 yen | 95,600 yen(47,800 yen per session) | 23,900 yen |
| Set of 3 (2cc x 3) | 139,800 yen | 137,400 yen(45,800 yen per session) | 22,900 yen |
Prices are shown all-inclusive, covering consultation and needle fees.
There is no separate upselling on the day.
Need for anesthesia | Low
This treatment generally does not require anesthesia.
We would like to keep this pricing, so if you would like numbing cream we charge[5,500 yen (tax included) per session]for it. (*This is because anesthesia adds about 20 minutes to the treatment time.)
Monitor Requirements
①Intended Use｜We may publish your photos on our website, Instagram, and similar media with the eye area concealed, or show them to other patients as treatment examples [please picture typical case photos].
②Procedure｜You pay the regular price at your first visit, and we refund the difference (between the regular price and the monitor price) when the monitor photos are taken (3 to 7 days after the second treatment).
Market pricing
At aesthetic clinics in the Kanto region, the market rate for injecting Profhilo into the face is around 65,000–80,000 yen per session, 130,000–170,000 yen for a set of two, and about 200,000 yen for three.
*Surveyed in June 2025.
Profhilo Body
*Treatable areas
Anywhere on the body except the face
e.g., décolleté, backs of the hands, abdomen (upper and lower), above the elbows, fingers, above the knees, thighs, etc.
*Required dosage
3cc per area is the guideline. When treating both left and right, or both the upper and lower abdomen, a total of 6cc per session is recommended.
| 1 session (3cc) | 59,800 yen |
| Set of 2 (3cc x 2) [Includes 1 bottle of dedicated body cream] | 109,600 yen (59,800 yen for the 1st vial) (49,800 yen for the 2nd vial) |
| Set of 4 (3cc x 4) [Includes 2 bottles of dedicated body cream] | 194,200 yen (59,800 yen for the 1st vial) (49,800 yen for the 2nd vial) (44,800 yen for the 3rd vial) (39,800 yen for the 4th vial) |
| [Monitor Price] Set of 2 (3cc x 2) [Includes 1 bottle of dedicated body cream] | 99,600 yen |
| [Monitor Price] Set of 4 (3cc x 4) [Includes 2 bottles of dedicated body cream] | 184,200 yen |
*We offer self-pay (non-insured) treatments only; insurance does not apply.
Profhilo Treatment Flow
You can easily book from your smartphone.
A smart, effortless check-in: just give your name and our clinic IT system completes reception right away.
During counseling, please feel free to share any concerns. Rest assured, there is no pushy sales.
After marking is done, we perform the injection while checking in with you as we go.
We explain in detail how to care for the treated area and what to keep in mind in daily life. From a prevention and maintenance standpoint, we also suggest suitable home care, such as oral medications and skincare products that can support improvement of your concerns.
For Your Daily Care
To every day beyond,
Skin-nurturing care.
&DR.is a skincare brand born from the findings of cosmetic dermatology. Its first product, BAKU, is a skin-nurturing serum that focuses on gentleness, centered on the plant-derived skin-conditioning ingredient BAKUCHIOL. It can be used gently every day, both in the morning and at night.
Details
| Treatment Time | 15–30 minutes (not including counseling) |
| Recommended Number & Frequency of Treatments | A set of 2 treatments spaced at least 6 weeks apart is recommended. After that, maintenance about once every six months is recommended. |
| Downtime | About 24 hours |
| Treatment on the day of counseling | Available |
| Makeup | Possible right after the treatment |
| Skincare | Possible right after the treatment |
| Shower | Possible from the same day |
| Pain | A slight pricking sensation when the needle is inserted. |
We also recommend these treatments
At Smart Skin Clinic, we focus on skin-conditioning injectable treatments. We currently offer 11 formulations, so we can suggest a treatment suited to your concerns and budget.
If you are not sure which treatment is right for you, please feel free to come in just for a consultation first.
We have briefly summarized the characteristics of the other injectable formulations, so please take a look if you are interested.
Skin-conditioning injectable products other than Profhilo (Jalupro, Sunekos, Rejuran, Juvelook, Gouri injection)
To share our conclusion first:
[For overall skin hydration, radiance improvement, and overall rejuvenation] Juvelook, Profhilo, Jalupro Super Hydro
[For improving sagging] Gouri, Juvelook Volume (Lenisna), Jalupro Super Hydro, Profhilo
[For improving deep wrinkles and nasolabial folds] Gouri, Juvelook Volume (Lenisna), Jalupro HMW
[For improving concerns around the eyes (fine lines, sagging, firmness)] Sunekos, Rejuran i, Jalupro Classic
[For improving post-acne marks and scar depressions] Juvelook, Rejuran, Rejuran HB
There are many kinds of skin-conditioning injectable formulations, so it is best to decide by weighing your concerns, the effects you hope for, your budget, and whether a nearby clinic offers the product.
One important thing to keep in mind is that the effects of injectable treatments vary from person to person. After receiving several treatments over a short initial period, the effects can be maintained with maintenance treatments every six months to a year. You can feel results from a single treatment, but please also remember that continued treatment is needed to sustain them.
If you would like more details on each injectable formulation, please read the articles below.
Laser-based and surgical procedures (HIFU, thread lift) for improving sagging
Laser-based and surgical procedures are effective treatments for improving sagging.
Taking a different approach from Profhilo, these treatments aim to tighten and lift the skin.
With surgical procedures as well, results vary from person to person. And to maintain the sagging-improvement effect, these treatments too need to be continued.
*We do not offer HIFU at our clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions about Profhilo
- Is there anything I should be careful about after a Profhilo injection?
-
The injection site may swell after injection, and it is recommended to avoid touching or pressing on that area excessively. After the treatment, please avoid strenuous exercise, prolonged bathing (extended time in direct sunlight or a sauna), and excessive alcohol consumption.
- How often should I get Profhilo injections? Maintenance after the second session
-
After the first injection, it is recommended to have the second injection as a set at least 6 weeks later.
For the third session and beyond, it is recommended to either repeat the same pattern once a year or receive maintenance injections every six months. - When can I expect to feel the effects of Profhilo? Is it effective even with just one session?
-
Results vary from person to person, but some people notice an improvement in skin texture soon after the first treatment. Most people feel the effect around 4 weeks later.
- Can Profhilo be combined with other aesthetic dermatology treatments?
-
In general, it can be combined with other aesthetic treatments. If you are also considering other treatments, please consult the doctor during your counseling.
- Can I receive Profhilo while pregnant or breastfeeding?
-
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding cannot receive this treatment.
- Can it be done under the eyes?
-
Profhilo is administered using the BAP technique, but we also offer customized injections. Since the product diffuses and penetrates widely after injection, it can be expected to help with concerns around the eyes, including under the eyes.
[Legal Notices]
Profhilo treatment includes procedures using medications or medical devices not approved in Japan. The medications and devices used are personally imported at the discretion of our clinic's physicians.
Please refer to this page for information on medications and similar items that require caution in personal importation.
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, "Medications and Similar Items That Require Caution in Personal Importation."
Related Pages
Physician Who Supervised This Page
Smart Skin Clinic, Chief Medical Director / Physician
Kota Ishii
We oversee treatment policies across the entire group, tailored to the skin condition of each individual patient. The content on this page has been reviewed and approved in line with our clinic's treatment policies.
Interview with Director Kota Ishii
Kota Ishii, our Chief Medical Director, shares our clinic's approach to patient care.
Clinic List
Jimbocho Clinic
〒101-0054
3-16-1 Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, EX Kanda Nishiki-cho Building 8F (general reception) / 7F
Hours: Mon–Fri 11:00–20:00 / Sat & Sun 10:00–19:00
Yokohama Clinic
〒221-0835
TS Plaza Building 2F, 2-23-2 Tsuruya-cho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
Hours: 10:00–19:00
About the physician supervision of this site
This site is operated under the supervision of a Smart Skin Clinic supervising physician.
This page was produced in accordance with the Medical Advertising Guidelines Medical Advertising Guidelines revised and enforced in June 2018, under which we produce and provide this information.
- Scope of supervision: treatment descriptions, risks and side effects, price display
- Last supervision date: June 26, 2025