Skinvive vs Profhilo: Two approaches to injectable skin hydration and glow

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A clinical guide to Skinvive vs Profhilo, explaining two injectable approaches to skin hydration, elasticity and long-term skin quality.

Skinvive vs Profhilo:
Two approaches to injectable skin hydration and glow

3rd January 2025

In recent years, injectable treatments designed to improve skin quality rather than facial volume have become increasingly prominent. Often referred to as skin boosters, these treatments reflect a broader shift in aesthetic medicine; away from structural change and towards improving how the skin looks, feels and functions over time.

Two names frequently discussed in this category are Skinvive and Profhilo. While they are sometimes grouped together, they work in different ways and are suited to different skin concerns.

At the Dr Joney De Souza clinic in Marylebone, skin boosters are seen as part of a wider, considered strategy. Rather than viewing Skinvive and Profhilo as interchangeable, the clinic focuses on understanding how each treatment behaves within the skin, and which approach is most appropriate for an individual patient.

What are injectable skin boosters?

Injectable skin boosters improve hydration, elasticity and texture. They do this without adding volume or altering facial shape. Unlike dermal fillers, they are not meant to contour or lift. Their purpose is to support overall skin quality.

Many patients consider them when skin looks dull, dehydrated or less resilient. This applies even when volume loss is not a primary concern. Results tend to be subtle and cumulative. They develop gradually rather than immediately.

At the Dr Joney De Souza clinic, skin boosters are discussed in the context of long-term skin health. They are not offered as quick aesthetic fixes.

Let’s look at Skinvive and Profhilo skin booster treatments in more detail.

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What is Skinvive?

Skinvive is an injectable hyaluronic acid treatment. It improves skin smoothness and hydration at the surface level. The treatment disperses microdroplets of hyaluronic acid within the skin. This helps enhance hydration and light reflection.

Because of its formulation and placement, Skinvive is often associated with improvements in:

  • Skin smoothness

  • Subtle luminosity

  • Overall skin texture

At the clinic, Skinvive may suit patients concerned mainly with surface quality and radiance. It is less focused on deeper structural or textural change.

Learn more about Skinvive
Before
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After
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What is Profhilo?

Profhilo is also a hyaluronic acid-based injectable. Compared to Skinvive, it behaves differently within the skin. It does not focus on surface hydration alone. Instead, it spreads more widely to stimulate skin remodelling and improve elasticity.

Profhilo is often considered for patients experiencing:

  • Loss of skin firmness

  • Reduced elasticity

  • Crepey or lax skin texture

Rather than creating volume, Profhilo supports the skin’s underlying structure. This encourages a gradual improvement in skin quality over time.

Discover Profhilo skin booster treatments
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“At our Marylebone clinic, we take a ‘less is more’ approach with our clients. During consultations, we will look at all the possible treatments to complement your longer term skin goals.”

– Dr Joney De Souza, in conversation with The Times

Skinvive vs Profhilo: key differences in approach

Both treatments sit within the skin booster category. When comparing Skinvive vs Profhilo in London, their mechanisms and clinical uses still differ.

  • Skinvive is typically focused on surface hydration and smoothness

  • Profhilo is more often used to improve elasticity and overall skin quality

At the Dr Joney De Souza clinic in Marylebone, these differences guide treatment selection. Some patients may be better suited to one approach. Others may benefit from combining injectable hydration with lasers or energy-based devices.

Explore skin boosters in Marylebone
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Celebrity Confidence in Skinvive with Dr Joney, Cat Deeley’s Experience

TV presenter Cat Deeley recently spoke openly about aesthetic treatments in Good Housekeeping. She described how she prioritises natural looking results that support skin quality and confidence. In the article, Cat highlights her skin booster treatments with Dr Joney De Souza. They are part of her routine for maintaining hydration and a fresh-looking complexion.

“I want something that I can go in, do and know it’s going to keep on delivering.”

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Which skin concerns may benefit from each treatment?

The Dr Joney De Souza clinic does not ask which treatment is ‘better’. Instead, its approach centres on suitability.

Skinvive may be considered when the primary concern is:

  • Dull or uneven skin texture

  • Dehydration affecting skin appearance

  • Desire for subtle glow without downtime

Profhilo may be discussed when concerns include:

  • Skin laxity or loss of firmness

  • Thinning or crepey skin

  • Early structural changes without volume loss

In some cases, neither treatment may be appropriate straight away. Preparatory steps may be recommended first, such as improving barrier function or addressing inflammation.

Speak with a specialist
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How injectable skin boosters like Skinvive and Profhilo fit into a wider skin strategy

At the clinic, injectable skin boosters are rarely used in isolation. Instead, they form part of a broader plan that may include:

This layered approach improves hydration, texture and firmness. The changes develop gradually and harmoniously.

Book a consultation
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Why consultation is essential

Skin boosters have a reputation as gentle treatments. Even so, they still require careful assessment. Factors like skin thickness, lifestyle, previous treatments and overall skin health all influence outcomes.

At the Dr Joney De Souza clinic, consultations with a skin and laser expert are used to determine:

  • Whether injectable hydration is appropriate

  • Which treatment aligns with the patient’s skin concerns

  • How treatments should be timed and combined

This ensures results stay natural and support long-term skin health goals.

Book your consultation today
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A considered approach to skin hydration and glow

Skinvive and Profhilo represent two distinct approaches to improving skin quality. Understanding how they differ (and when each is appropriate) is key to achieving natural, balanced results.

At Dr Joney De Souza’s clinic in Marylebone, injectable skin hydration is approached thoughtfully, with an emphasis on assessment, suitability and long-term skin health rather than trends or quick fixes.

Clinical assessment allows the team to:

– Identify underlying causes rather than surface symptoms

– Select appropriate treatment intensity and timing

– Avoid unnecessary or poorly timed intervention

– Align treatment plans with long-term skin health goals

This approach helps ensure that outcomes remain subtle, natural and sustainable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ask us your question

What is the difference between Skinvive and Profhilo?

Skinvive is primarily focused on improving surface hydration and smoothness, while Profhilo is designed to improve skin elasticity and overall quality through deeper skin remodelling.

Do Skinvive or Profhilo add volume?

Neither treatment is intended to add volume or alter facial shape. Their role is to support skin quality rather than structure.

How long do skin booster treatments last?

Results vary depending on the treatment used and individual skin factors. Improvements are typically gradual and may be maintained with periodic treatments as advised by the clinical team.

Are skin boosters suitable for all skin types?

Skin boosters can be suitable for many skin types, but not all. Consultation is essential to assess suitability and timing.

Can skin boosters be combined with laser treatments?

Yes. Skin boosters are often combined with laser or energy-based treatments as part of a broader skin health strategy, depending on individual needs.

 4.9 ★★★★★ 268 reviews

Read our reviews

Our patients return to us year after year for natural, balanced results. Every review reflects our commitment to precision, safety and a personalised approach to aesthetic care.

I genuinely wouldn’t trust anyone else with my skin. Dr Joney de Souza remains my top recommendation for anyone seeking expert aesthetic care in London. He has a calm, professional manner and always takes the time to truly listen and understand what you’re hoping to achieve. His approach is natural and refined, you always leave looking like the best version of yourself, never overdone. The clinic is a beautiful, welcoming space in the heart of London, and the entire team is warm, knowledgeable, and highly professional. Dr Joney’s expertise and eye for detail are truly exceptional, and the results speak for themselves.
Daniele Bernardinetti
Daniele Bernardinetti
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I’ve known Dr. Joney de Souza for years and can’t recommend him highly enough. He’s a true expert in aesthetics — always professional, innovative, and genuinely caring. His treatments are subtle, natural, and always tailored to your needs. A standout in London’s aesthetic scene!
Osmar Pinheiro Bacelar Junior
Osmar Pinheiro Bacelar Junior
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I had treatment at Dr. Joney De Souza’s clinic one month ago and had a fantastic experience. Dr. De Souza was friendly, highly knowledgeable, and made me feel completely comfortable and at ease throughout the process. His great sense of humor also helped create a relaxed atmosphere. I’m really happy with the results and will definitely be coming back for regular visits. Highly recommend this clinic!
Daluna London
Daluna London
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The clinic is so very welcoming and really listens to how and what you would like to achieve, i have had several facial treatments and it has made such a difference to my confidence. David and everyone in the clinic are professional and experts in what they do, they treat you with a really personal service. My skin has never looked so clear or glowing .. I’ve had people stop and ask me what and where do I have my treatments .. thank you
Jayne Gates
Jayne Gates
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I had an excellent experience with Dr. Joney de Souza and his team. From start to finish, they were incredibly supportive, making me feel at ease throughout the entire process. Dr. Joney has both a sharp eye and a soft hand, striking the perfect balance between precision and gentleness. The team’s expertise speaks for itself, and their approach is as refined as it is reassuring. Highly recommended.

About us

The Dr Joney De Souza Skin & Laser Clinic is based at 49 Blandford Street in Marylebone. It is known for a refined, personalised approach to aesthetic medicine and skin health. The clinic offers a carefully curated range of advanced treatments. These include Skinvive by Juvéderm, designed to improve skin quality, hydration and radiance while preserving natural facial expression.

Every aesthetic treatment gets the same attention to detail and clinical integrity. The focus stays on long-term skin health rather than short-term cosmetic change. Through thorough consultation and tailored treatment planning, patients are guided towards subtle, effective solutions. These support healthy, luminous skin over time.

About Dr Joney De Souza
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Kind words that made our day 🤍

We were so touched to receive this lovely feedback from a recent client following her PicoSure face treatment with Roma - this one’s for David, Roma, and Dr Joney.

“From the moment I arrived, David and Roma made me feel so welcome and completely at ease. Roma was caring, professional, and took the time to explain the treatment thoroughly, making sure I felt comfortable and reassured throughout. Even after just one session, my skin already feels smoother and looks much more refreshed.”

Moments like this are exactly why we do what we do. It’s not just about the results (although we’re so pleased with how her skin is already responding!), it’s about making every client feel genuinely cared for from the second they walk through the door.

Thank you to our amazing client for such kind words, and to David, Roma, and Dr Joney for the warmth and care you bring to every single appointment 🫶HydraFacial: the secret to that red-carpet glow ✨

Ever wondered what actually happens during a HydraFacial? Here’s a look inside the treatment, step by step, at Dr Joney De Souza.

It begins with a deep cleanse and exfoliation to clear away impurities and prepare the skin, followed by gentle extractions that refine congestion with complete comfort and precision. 

From there, targeted serums and boosters are infused into the skin, tailored entirely to your individual needs, before LED light therapy supports the skin’s long-term health and renewal. 

The treatment finishes with an antioxidant infusion, sealing in radiance for that lit-from-within finish.

This particular treatment was our Deluxe HydraFacial, though for those wanting to elevate the experience further, our Platinum HydraFacial also includes lymphatic drainage, perfect for extra de-puffing and detoxification alongside all the usual glow-boosting benefits.

The result is skin that looks cleansed, replenished, and effortlessly glowing, delivered with the precision and care that defines every treatment here.

📍 Marylebone, London | 020 7043 0748 📱Sculptra vs Juläine: which biostimulator is right for you? 💭

Both Sculptra and Juläine are poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) biostimulators - meaning rather than simply adding volume, they work by encouraging your skin to produce its own natural collagen over time, for results that look and feel truly you.

Sculptra is the original PLLA injectable, with a long-established track record for stimulating collagen and improving skin structure and firmness gradually over several months, with results that can last up to two years.

Juläine is a newer generation PLLA treatment, using more uniform, highly purified microspheres engineered to mix more evenly, which can help reduce inflammation caused by treatment. Like Sculptra, results build gradually, with visible improvements from a few weeks in and full effects developing over a few months. 

Both are excellent options for restoring facial volume, improving skin quality, and softening lines. The right choice really depends on your skin, goals, and what your practitioner recommends for you.

Not sure which is best suited to your skin and goals? Get in touch with us today to book your consultation.

📍Marylebone, London | 020 7043 0748 📱Product Spotlight | Daily Power Defense ✨

ZO Skin Health’s Daily Power Defense is one of those products that quietly does a lot of the heavy lifting in a skincare routine, and it’s become a firm favourite of ours here at the clinic.

Formulated with Vitamins A and E, it helps protect the skin against environmental damage and free radicals, while supporting barrier restoration and long-lasting hydration.
Over time, this can mean fewer visible signs of premature ageing and a stronger, more resilient complexion.

It’s a lightweight daily step, but one that adds up - the kind of product that supports your skin quietly in the background, day after day.

If you’re curious whether it fits into your routine, drop us a DM, or ask at your next appointment 📅

How can you find us?

Our clinic is located in Marylebone, London, in the heart of one of Central London’s most prestigious and renowned medical districts. Perfectly positioned for convenience and discretion, we are easily accessible from across the capital and beyond.

We welcome patients from Mayfair, Harley Street, Marylebone, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Chelsea, Kensington, Fitzrovia and St John’s Wood, as well as international patients visiting London for specialist treatment.

Our location benefits from excellent transport connections, with close proximity to major Underground stations, mainline rail links and direct access to Heathrow, Gatwick and London City airports. Several secure parking facilities and convenient chauffeur drop-off points are available nearby, ensuring a seamless and comfortable visit.

Whether you are travelling from elsewhere in London, across the UK or internationally, our clinic offers a calm, private and exclusive setting in one of the world’s leading medical destinations.

Opening hours
Monday
9 am to 6 pm
Tuesday
9 am to 6 pm
Wednesday
9 am to 6 pm
Thursday
9 am to 6 pm
Friday
9 am to 6 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed
Dr Joney De Souza
49 Blandford St, London W1U 7HH
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