CaHa is an injectable collagen stimulator in which calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres sit in a gel carrier. Calcium hydroxyapatite is a mineral compound that also occurs naturally in the body. On application the carrier gel gives the area immediate tissue support, while over the following weeks the microspheres prompt the body to build its own collagen around them. This two stage behaviour is what separates CaHa both from classic fillers that only add volume and from products that only stimulate collagen.
What it addresses
With age the skin's supporting structure weakens, the dermis thins and the lower face starts to feel heavier. CaHa is considered when the aim is both to support the area and to stimulate the tissue's own collagen production. The point is not to inflate the face or change its lines but to support the lines that are already there.
Areas where it is considered
- Loss of definition along the jaw line and lower face
- Flattening across the cheeks and mid face
- Hollowing at the temples
- Areas of reduced skin support such as the neck, décolletage and back of the hands
Which areas are suitable depends on skin thickness and the degree of laxity, and is decided during the examination. Some thin, highly mobile areas such as the lips are not considered appropriate for this product.
Who it suits and who needs closer assessment
It is considered for people with mild to moderate laxity who are not looking at surgery and who want gradual support. It may not be appropriate during pregnancy and breastfeeding, when there is an active skin infection or inflammation in the area, or where there is uncontrolled autoimmune disease or a bleeding disorder. A tendency to keloid scarring, any history of permanent filler in the same area and the use of blood thinners must be shared at the examination. Suitability is decided by a medical assessment.
How the session runs
The visit begins by studying the face at rest and in movement. Your expectations are discussed and it is stated plainly whether CaHa fits them. On the day of treatment the area is cleaned and a topical anaesthetic is applied if you wish. The product is then delivered in a measured way into the planned layer with a needle or a cannula. A cannula can allow a safer pass through areas with dense vasculature and can reduce the likelihood of bruising. The area is checked repeatedly during the application, with attention to symmetry. The session is usually short and rarely requires you to change your day.
Onset and duration of the effect
Part of the effect is visible from day one because of the carrier gel, but that phase is temporary. The real change becomes clearer gradually over a few weeks as the collagen response develops. The effect is usually long lasting rather than permanent. How long it lasts depends on skin type, age, metabolism, smoking and sun exposure. Results vary from person to person and no outcome is promised in advance.
Aftercare
- Avoid heavy exercise, saunas, steam rooms and excessive heat on the first day.
- Do not massage or press the area beyond what your doctor has described.
- Skip make up for the first hours and do not rub the area when washing your face.
- Use sun protection consistently and avoid strong sun in the first days.
- Mild swelling, tenderness or small bruises can occur and usually settle quickly.
Contact the clinic if you notice unexpected pain, pallor or a colour change in the area, or swelling and firmness that persist. Findings like these are best assessed early.
Points that are often confused
CaHa is frequently mistaken for hyaluronic acid filler. The most important difference is that hyaluronic acid can be dissolved with an enzyme if needed, whereas CaHa has no such reversal agent. That is why the quantity and placement are planned conservatively from the outset. Another misconception is that CaHa is permanent. It is long lasting, but the body absorbs it over time. Finally, expecting the collagen support to appear after a single session is not realistic, which is why a review visit is usually planned a few weeks later.