Collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are the skin components primarily responsible for contributing to the skin’s appearance. Levels of these constituents diminish significantly as we age, resulting in a less youthful skin appearance. The dermis, rife with nerves, blood vessels, and sweat glands, is composed mostly of collagen and, as the layer of the skin between the epidermis and subcutaneous fat, is responsible for skin thickness. Therefore, the condition of the dermis plays a significant role in the cosmetic appearance of the skin. The theoretical basis for soft tissue augmentation using dermal fillers is to achieve a temporary, more youthful look in facial skin by replacing some of the building blocks of the dermal layer of skin lost through aging.

Collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are the skin components primarily responsible for contributing to the skin’s appearance.