Before we dive into the difference between Restylane and Perlane, it’s important to note the two dermal fillers are hyaluronic-acid based. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that keeps the skin, eyes, and connective tissues hydrated so they can function properly. Acting as a humectant, hyaluronic acid attracts water and helps it bind to hydrogen. This lubricating substance depletes as you age, leaving skin wrinkled and dry.
Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane and Perlane—which are manufactured by the same company—utilize hyaluronic acid to reverse common signs of aging: wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. The noninvasive dermal fillers also hydrate, boost the skin’s ability to defend itself against pollutants, tighten the skin, stimulate skin cell production, and repair discoloration. Although Restylane and Perlane provide all of these benefits, the brands are distinctive in two major ways: the average size of the particles and depth of injection.
While both are clear gel formulas, Perlane features a larger particle size of 1,000 microns, and Restylane about 250 microns, according to online physicians medical resource hub Medscape. Due to its larger particle size, Perlane is best for deep dermal injections, while Restylane is used for mid-to-deep injections. Perlane is typically used for tougher areas of the body such as the back of the hands or the middle of the face. Restylane is most commonly used to smooth wrinkles and plump lips.
One of Perlane’s products—Perlane-L—has actually been rebranded as Restylane Lyft. Restylane Lyft combines lidocaine with Perlane to help reduce discomfort during and after treatment. According to clinical studies, 95 percent of patients experience less pain during treatment with Restylane Lyft (formerly Perlane-L) than Perlane. Restylane Lyft is “specifically designed to add fullness to the cheeks, midface area, and the back of the hands to help complete your aesthetic look—for face and hands,” the brand states.
In addition to Restylane Lyft, the Restylane brand offers a variety of products—many more than those under the Perlane name.
- Restylane Kysse adds volume to the lips using XpressHAn Technology, enabling long-term flexible movement.
- Restylane Silk uses the smallest, smoothest hyaluronic particles to create a natural-looking pout.
- Restylane is the original product utilized to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, as well as add volume to the lips.
- Restylane Refyne uses XpressHAn technology to smooth laugh lines, aka nasolabial folds or marionette lines.
- Restylane Defyne has the power to smooth deep laugh lines and define your chin.
- Restylane Contour redefines the cheeks, restoring natural contour.
If you’re interested in reversing the signs of aging, and curious about whether Perlane or Restylane would work best for you, contact Long Island Plastic Surgeon Dr. Anthony Buglino. Schedule a free consultation to discuss which hyaluronic acid filler is best for your skin, the area you want treated, and your goals.
View before and after images of Dr. Buglino’s filler work on his Instagram!
Although Perlane and Restylane are typically safe for a wide range of adults, there are patients who should not use these products. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have recently used blood-thinning medications, are allergic to any of the ingredients, or have bleeding disorders or a known allergy to lidocaine, you should not receive Perlane or Restylane. Inform your doctor of your medical history, allergies, and current prescriptions/supplements.
