- The Mechanism: Unlike fillers (which just fill space), Biostimulators trigger fibroblasts to produce new collagen, thickening the skin from within.
- PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid): Best for gradual, full-face volumising and restoring "glow" over time.
- CaHA (Calcium Hydroxylapatite): Best for immediate structural lift (jawline/chin) due to its rigid gel matrix.
- PDLLA (Poly-DL-Lactic Acid): A hybrid molecule that spreads evenly, making it ideal for thinning skin and texture improvement.
When it comes to anti-ageing, collagen is the currency of youth. Unfortunately, we lose about 1% of it every year after age 20.
While traditional Dermal Fillers can “refill” the tank, they don’t fix the tank itself. This is where collagen biostimulators come in. They are not just about filling a gap; they are about rebooting your skin’s engine to produce its own structural support.
Here is the deep dive into how they work and the differences between the top 3 active ingredients used in Singapore.
What Is a Collagen Biostimulator?
A collagen biostimulator is an injectable treatment that acts as a “seed.” When injected, it doesn’t just sit there like a standard filler. It engages fibroblasts (the cells responsible for building skin) and triggers a controlled regenerative response.
Unlike dermal fillers, which add immediate volume, or neurotoxins, which reduce muscle movement, biostimulators work gradually beneath the skin’s surface to stimulate the skin’s own regenerative processes.
The Process:
- Injection: The product is placed deep in the dermis.
- Inflammation: The micro-particles create a mild, sub-clinical inflammatory response.
- Collagenesis: Your body rushes to repair this “signal” by surrounding the particles with new, fresh collagen fibres.
- Absorption: Over time, the biostimulator gel dissolves, while the strong network of natural collagen remains to support the skin’s structure.
What Areas Can Collagen Biostimulators Treat?
At DermAlly, we use collagen biostimulators primarily to treat areas that lose volume or definition with age:
- Mid-face and cheeks – to restore volume and lift
- Jawline – to improve contour and firmness
- Temples – to correct hollowing
- Chin – to enhance structure and definition
- Lower face – to reduce the appearance of marionette lines or folds
These treatments are not typically used on the lips or around the eyes, where the skin is thinner and more delicate.
What Collagen Biostimulators Are Made Of
Not all biostimulators are the same. Different products use different active ingredients to stimulate collagen. Each material interacts with your body in a slightly different way, influencing how quickly results appear, how long they last, and how best to use the product.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA)
How it works: PLLA is a biocompatible, biodegradable synthetic polymer. It works slowly and does not provide immediate volume. Instead, it disperses widely across the face to create a “blanket” of collagen over 3–6 months.
Best For: Generalised firming, hollow temples, and sunken cheeks. It gives a soft, natural result rather than a sharp lift.
Important Note: PLLA typically requires the patient to massage the area (5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days) to ensure the particles spread evenly and prevent nodules.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
How it works: CaHA is unique because the calcium microspheres are suspended in a thick gel carrier. This gives you immediate, visible volume/lift while the calcium particles stimulate collagen in the long term.
Best For: Structural definition. Because the gel is rigid and stays in place, it is the gold standard for defining the Jawline and Chin.
The Difference: Unlike PLLA, which spreads softly, CaHA offers a “firmer feel” and more precise contouring.
Poly-DL-Lactic Acid (PDLLA)
How it works: This is the newest generation of lactic acid. It combines the benefits of PLLA with a unique porous structure that allows it to disperse very evenly. It is less likely to form lumps than older PLLA formulas.
Best For: Thin, fragile skin or larger areas needing thickening without heavy volume. It improves texture and elasticity beautifully, but offers less “hard” projection than CaHA.
Which One Fits Your Skin Goals?
At DermAlly, we assess your facial structure, skin condition, and aesthetic goals before recommending treatment. We also consider factors such as your age, skin thickness, history of cosmetic treatments, and personal preferences.
| Feature | PLLA | CaHA | PDLLA |
| Primary Goal | Global Volumising & Glow | Definition & Structure | Skin Thickening & Texture |
| Immediate Result? | No (Gradual over months) | Yes (Gel carrier lifts instantly) | Moderate |
| Best Areas | Sunken Cheeks, Temples | Jawline, Chin | Full Face, Thin Skin |
| Consistency | Liquid/Watery | Thick/Firm Gel | Spongy/Soft Microspheres |
| Downtime | Minimal (Massage required) | Moderate (Swelling) | Minimal |
Can You Combine Biostimulators With Other Treatments? (The "Stacking" Method)
Yes. In fact, collagen biostimulators often work best when paired with other modalities. Combining treatments can enhance results, addressing different layers of the skin and different stages of ageing.
Biostimulator + HIFU or Ultherapy
A high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment targets deeper tissue layers to stimulate collagen at the structural level. When paired with biostimulators, it can enhance skin-tightening effects and improve definition. This is especially effective in the lower face and neck.
Fillers
Fillers provide immediate volume, while biostimulators work over time. Used together, they offer both instant and long-term results, especially in mid-face and jawline treatments. We may recommend this combination for a full-face rejuvenation.
Threads
Thread lifts reposition sagging skin and stimulate collagen as they dissolve. When paired with biostimulators, the collagen response is amplified, improving firmness and contour. Threads provide scaffolding, while biostimulators add depth and support.
Energy-Based Devices
Devices like radiofrequency (RF), microneedling RF, and laser therapies stimulate superficial collagen and improve skin tone. Combined with biostimulators, they target both surface and deep structural layers for more comprehensive skin renewal.
Skin Boosters
Skin Boosters deliver hydration and improve skin texture. Layering them with collagen biostimulators helps achieve a radiant, lifted look with better elasticity and moisture retention. This pairing is ideal if your skin feels thin, dull, or dehydrated.
Explore Facial Treatments That Stimulate Collagen Production
Collagen biostimulators are one part of a broader, layered approach to skin rejuvenation. Whether you’re aiming to firm or subtly lift your skin, we’ll help you choose the right treatment plan. Book a consultation with our DermAlly dermatologists to find out if biostimulators can achieve your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are biostimulators reversible?
No. Unlike Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fillers, which can be dissolved, biostimulators cannot be removed once injected. They must break down naturally over time. This is why choosing an experienced doctor is critical.
How long do results last?
Because you are building your own tissue, the results are long-lasting.
- PLLA: Up to 24 months.
- CaHA: 12–18 months.
- PDLLA: 18–24 months.
Is it painful?
Most biostimulators are mixed with lidocaine (numbing agent) before injection, making the procedure quite comfortable. You may feel mild soreness or “fullness” in the area for 2–3 days.
Can I use this under my eyes?
Generally, no. The skin under the eyes is too thin, and placing thick collagen stimulators there can cause lumps. We prefer using specialised Skinboosters or tear-trough fillers for this delicate area.
Our articles are written and reviewed by Dr. Coni Liu (MRCS, FAMS) and Dr. Heng Jun Khee (MRCP, FAMS), Ministry of Health-accredited Consultant Dermatologists at DermAlly.
Both are Fellows of the Academy of Medicine (Dermatology) and previously served as Consultants at the National Skin Centre (NSC), bringing extensive experience in medical, surgical, and aesthetic dermatology. They are committed to making expert-led skin education accessible, practical, and clear, helping patients look and feel their best through evidence-based care rooted in science and compassion.
