Biostimulators vs Bioremodelling: What’s the Difference?

I keep seeing terms like “biostimulators” and “bioremodelling”, and it’s getting confusing.  Are they actually different, or just names for the same thing?

Anon, Hobsonville

It is understandable to be confused, especially as the names are similar and with the growing cosmetic industry, there always seems to be a new term to learn!  The short answer is yes, there is a difference, but they are more closely related than you might think.

Biostimulators such as Sculptra® and Radiesse® are treatments designed to encourage your skin to produce more of its own collagen.  Rather than adding volume, they work by stimulating your body’s natural processes to improve firmness, structure and skin quality.

Bioremodelling, on the other hand, focuses more on improving the skin’s behaviour.  Treatments such as Profhilo® spread through the skin to also stimulate collagen whilst enhancing hydration, elasticity and texture.  If we simplify it, biostimulators are about rebuilding support whereas bioremodelling is about improving skin quality.  In practice, both approaches do the same thing by creating healthier, more resilient skin.  The difference lies in how they get there and what they prioritise.

Which one is more suitable depends on what you are noticing in your skin.  The important thing is not the label.  It is choosing the right injector who will guide you to the best approach for your skin, and use it in a way that still looks like you.

Quick Answers

Are biostimulators and bioremodelling the same thing?

Not exactly. Biostimulators and bioremodelling are related, but they work slightly differently and are usually chosen for different skin goals.

What do biostimulators do?

Biostimulators encourage the skin to produce more of its own collagen. They are often used when the goal is to improve firmness, structure and support over time.

What does bioremodelling do?

Bioremodelling focuses more on improving skin quality. It helps with hydration, elasticity and texture, rather than adding volume or changing facial shape.

Is Profhilo® a biostimulator?

Profhilo® is usually described as a bioremodelling treatment rather than a traditional biostimulator. It can support collagen and elastin activity, but its main focus is skin hydration and quality.

Are Sculptra® and Radiesse® biostimulators?

Yes. Sculptra® and Radiesse® are commonly described as biostimulators because they are used to encourage collagen production and improve skin support.

Which is better: biostimulators or bioremodelling?

Neither biostimulators nor bioremodelling is automatically better. The right option depends on what your skin needs, what you are trying to improve, and how your face is assessed during consultation.

If you have a question for Dr. Heather you would like answered anonymously, please email askdrheather@allor.co.nz.

Written by Dr. Heather Anderson, MBChB, BSc, FRNZCUC, PGDip Cosmetic Medicine, NZSCM | ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine, Auckland

Sculptra® Medical Device Class III, to increase volume of depressed areas, particularly to correct skin depressions. Sculptra® has risks and benefits. Contains Poly-L-Lactic acid implant suspension.  Ask your doctor if Sculptra® is right for you.  For product information check with your doctor or from product  details with the supplier. Click for further details.  Galderma Australia Sydney. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland.

Radiesse® Medical Device Class III. Lidocaine injectable implant is indicated for plastic/reconstructive procedures in adults, including deep dermal and subdermal soft tissue augmentation of the facial area and is also intended for restoration and correction of fat or volume loss (lipoatrophy) in the facial area and for rejuvenation of the hands. Radiesse® has risks and benefits. Contains Calcium Hydroxylapatite. Ask your doctor if Radiesse® is right for you. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Merz, Sydney. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland.

Profhilo® containing low & high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, is a Class III medical device for the treatment of the face and body for contours redefinition and laxity remodelling where skin laxity is a problem. Profhilo® has risks and benefits. Do not use with treatments such a laser resurfacing or medium deep skin-peeling. Caution in people on blood thinning medicines. Do not inject into inflamed areas or intravenously or intramuscularly. Possible side effects: pain and swelling at injection site. Accelagen Pty.  Ltd. Whanganui.