![Official] Smart Skin Clinic｜Aesthetic Dermatology Group (Jimbocho, Yokohama)](https://smartskin-clinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Smart-skin-clinic-ロゴ500-×-100-px.png)
Profhilo - Japan's Highest Standard of Skin Care｜Smart Skin Clinic
*Number of cases | During the period from September 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024
At our clinic, the free consultation is handled directly by a specialist physician, not by a beauty counselor as at major clinics. For this reason, there is no hard selling whatsoever during the free consultation, which has made it very well received even by patients who are new to aesthetic treatments. Please book with peace of mind.
What is Profhilo?
What is a Profhilo injection?"An injectable moisturizer" and "next-generation hyaluronic acid"These are the names given to this injectable treatment.
Its official product name is "Profhilo®." On the market since 2015, it is a hyaluronic acid produced using NAHYCO™, a patented technology developed by the Italian company IBSA.
Because it is a cutting-edge treatment that can address sagging and improve skin quality at the same time, it is drawing attention within the cosmetic medicine field
Profhilo is called the next-generation "hyaluronic acid," but the conventional hyaluronic acid most people are familiar with is"cross-linked"hyaluronic acid.Profhilo is a "non-cross-linked" hyaluronic acid.That is the key distinction.
The major difference between cross-linked and non-cross-linked lies in whether it spreads. Profhilo, a non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, spreads out from the injection site to deliver its effects over a wide area.
Profhilo injections are effective for concerns like these
- I want to improve sagging and wrinkles across the entire face (under the eyes, outer corners of the eyes, cheeks, and neck) all at once, while also improving my skin quality
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Hollows under the eyes
- Fine lines at the corners of the eyes
- Gaunt or sagging cheeks
- Wanting to improve neck wrinkles
- Prominent tendons and wrinkles on the backs of the hands
- Wanting to rejuvenate the whole face naturally
- Wanting fast-acting results from skin treatment
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’ve explained the properties of hyaluronic acid. Here, we’ll explain the characteristics of Profhilo, which incorporate those properties of hyaluronic acid.
“Deep and wide penetration in multiple directions ”
This is the defining feature of Profhilo.
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
・Because it is a cross-linked hyaluronic acid, there are risks and side effects such as vascular embolism
Profhilo at Smart Skin Clinic
We use "Profhilo®."
As of 2020,it has been introduced in more than 80 countriesand is a hyaluronic acid with an extensive track record. More than 500,000 cases have been reported worldwide, and it has also received AMEC & AESTHETICS awards,a hyaluronic acid whose safety and effectiveness are recognized worldwide.
Profhilo is the only treatment that can remodel the skin without the use of a device.
Smart Skin Clinic sets the cost of a single treatment (one 2cc vial) at 59,800 yen (tax included), out of a desire to make it easier for patients to continue receiving treatment.
A board-certified anti-aging specialist with over 3,000 Profhilo procedures to their creditperforms the treatment
At Smart Skin Clinic,A board-certified specialist in anti-aging medicine with extensive experience—over 3,000 procedures using Profhilo alone—and a high level of technical expertisewill always be in charge of the treatment.
This helps ensure not only a high-quality finish but also keeps downtime swelling and pain during the procedure to a minimum.
Below, we share comments we have actually received from our patients.
Since it was on my face, I was worried about injection marks (bruising), but the doctor's technique was excellent and there was zero…
Excerpt from a Smart Skin Clinic review on Hot Pepper Beauty
I had the injection on my way home from work and took care to wash my face gently when bathing; when I woke up the next day,the marks that had looked like mosquito bites had completely disappeared.There was no need for unnecessary face washing before the treatment, and the treatment itself was over quickly in 15-20 minutes. I'm looking forward to my second session on 1/11.
The doctor is remarkably quick to understand and is exceptionally skilled at picking up on what you want.Having had many consultations at cosmetic surgery clinics, this is a clinic I would recommend.！！！！
The treatment, and the needle work, is very skillful. It does hurt, but the finish is outstanding..
Smart Skin Clinic's commitment to injection treatment
Following our director's philosophy, we perform injections with the following "attention to detail."
Safety
Since Profhilo contains absolutely no chemical substances—including cross-linking agents—or biologics, it can be said to be highly safe .
Specifically, this means it is less likely to cause allergic reactions, etc., .
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.
In addition, the high safety profile of Profhilo has been mentioned in several research 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.
Smart Skin Clinic's Profhilo consistently earns high ratings in reviews on Google, Hot Pepper, KireiPass, and more
At Smart Skin Clinic, we think carefully about what our patients truly need and thoroughly cut out unnecessary costs, allowing us to deliver affordability, high quality, and high satisfaction all at once.
As a result,we earn high ratings across a variety of review sites, including Google and Hot Pepper Beauty.we have earned.
As a result, about 80% of those who visit us once return for repeat treatment.
Hot Pepper Beauty rating 4.57/5.00
KireiPass rating4.30/5.00
Kumapon rating4.71/5.00
Gangnam Unni rating9.3/10.0
Trend-conscious influencers visit our clinic, too
Trend-conscious influencers visit our clinic, too
Pricing
| Sessions | Regular Price | Special Price | per vial |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 session (2cc) | 52,800 yen | 49,800 yen | 49,800 yen |
| Set of 2 (2cc x 2) | 99,600 yen | 95,600 yen | 47,800 yen |
| Set of 3 (2cc x 3) | 139,800 yen | 137,400 yen | ¥45,800 |
Below, regular prices
| 1 session (2cc) | |
| Set of 2 (2cc x 2) | (1st vial 52,800 yen) (2nd vial 46,800 yen) |
| Set of 3 (2cc x 3) | (52,800 yen for the 1st vial) (46,800 yen for the 2nd vial) (3rd vial40,200 yen) |
*We offer self-pay (non-insured) treatments only; insurance does not apply.
*Profhilo uses a set of designated injection points known as the BAP technique (treatment at bio-aesthetic points), so at essentially any clinic 2cc covers the treatment area described above.
Prices are shown all-inclusive, covering consultation and needle fees.
There is no separate upselling on the day.
Anesthesia｜None
Since this procedure is relatively painless, we perform it without anesthesia. Because there is no waiting time for anesthesia, the total time from when you arrive until you leave is shorter.
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 February 2024.
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
Risks and Side Effects
At the needle puncture site:
Redness, swelling, pain, edema
Bruising
Temporary raised bumps
Downtime
Redness and raised bumps may occur at the injection site, but in most cases they return to normal in about 24 hours.
Due to the nature of the treatment, subcutaneous bleeding may occur at the needle puncture site, though not always. If bruising occurs, it gradually fades over 10 to 14 days.
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 will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the treated area and what to keep in mind in your daily life.
In addition, with a focus on prevention and maintenance, we recommend appropriate home care products—such as oral medications and skincare products—that can help alleviate your concerns.
Details
| Treatment Time | About 15 minutes (not including counseling) |
| Recommended Number & Frequency of Treatments | ・It is recommended to wait at least 6 weeks and undergo the treatment as a two-session set. ・After that, maintenance treatment is recommended about once every six months. |
| 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. |
FAQ
- How often and how many times should I receive it?
- Dr. Ishii
Results can be gained even from a single session, but for the most effective approach we recommend one of the following.
① Have the first and second sessions one month apart, then continue the same pattern once a year thereafter.
② Have the first and second sessions one month apart, then continue every six months thereafter.
*Profhilo's skin remodeling effect increases the extracellular matrix and rejuvenates the skin. Without maintenance, the extracellular matrix gradually decreases "due to aging" after the treatment reaches its peak. For this reason, we recommend the approach above. - Does it hurt?
- Dr. Ishii
It varies from person to person. We use a fine needle, but you may feel a slight pricking sensation. The center of the face is also said to be more sensitive to pain.
- How long is the downtime?
- Dr. Ishii
Redness subsides in about 24 hours.
- Is one session effective?
- Dr. Ishii
Results can be gained in a single session, and the lifting effect can be felt right away. That said, many people notice the effects from 3 to 4 weeks later, as skin remodeling progresses.
Introducing other injectable treatments at Smart Skin Clinic for those with skin-quality concerns
In addition to Profhilo injections, Smart Skin Clinic also offers other injection treatments that are effective for improving skin quality.
If you are interested in the Juvelook injection shown in the case photo above, please refer to the link below.
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."
Smart Skin Clinic
Smart Skin Clinic
A clinic built on the concept of "making aesthetic medicine more accessible and smart."
Rather than spending on ornate interiors, we keep fit-out costs down, and rather than adding equipment indiscriminately, we carefully select only the devices we need to keep equipment costs down.
We aim to "make aesthetic medicine more accessible" for you.
Address: EX Kanda Nishiki-cho Building 8F, 3-16-1 Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Specialties: Aesthetic Dermatology (aesthetic dermatology, medical hair removal, medical body contouring)
Address: EX Kanda Nishiki-cho Building 8F, 3-16-1 Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Specialties: Aesthetic Dermatology (aesthetic dermatology, medical hair removal, medical body contouring)
About the physician supervision of this site
About the physician supervision of this site
This site is operated under the supervision of Smart Skin Clinic's supervising physicians.
This page is operated as a medical institution's website in accordance with the Medical Advertising Guidelines revised and enforced in June 2018, and is produced under the supervision of our supervising physician.
This page is operated as a medical institution's website in accordance with the Medical Advertising Guidelines revised and enforced in June 2018, and is produced under the supervision of our supervising physician.
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.