Hyaluronic acid
Also known as: hyaluronan, HA, hyaluronate
A naturally occurring moisture-binding polysaccharide whose stabilised, laboratory-made form is injected to plump lips and restore facial volume.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of skin — a polysaccharide that binds up to 1,000 water molecules to each molecule of its own. Hyaluronic acid has a dual use: on one hand, it is an ingredient in beauty-salon-level moisturising serums; on the other, it is an injectable filler used in clinics holding a Health Board (Terviseamet) operating licence to shape lips and facial contours. Both forms are widely used in Estonia, but fall under entirely different regulation.
How does hyaluronic acid work?
Applied topically to the skin, hyaluronic acid fills the micro-cracks in the stratum corneum and binds moisture in the surface layer — the effect is an immediate plump glow and softened fine lines. Low-molecular-weight forms penetrate deeper and support longer-lasting hydration.
As an injectable (dermal filler), hyaluronic acid is delivered into the skin as a cross-linked gel — it adds volume to the lips, cheekbones or chin, or fills the nasolabial folds. The injected result lasts 6–18 months, depending on the gel's density and the treatment area. In Estonian aesthetic clinics, only a doctor may inject it.
Hyaluronic acid in Estonia
As a moisturising serum, you'll find hyaluronic acid in Estonian beauty salons, pharmacies and cosmetics stores — priced at €15–80 per product. As an injectable, lip filler typically costs €250–400 (per 1 ml syringe), and facial contour filler €350–600. The Estonian directory lists 25 dermal filler providers — all Health Board-licensed aesthetic clinics in Tallinn, Tartu and Pärnu.
Frequently asked questions
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is skin's natural moisture-binding substance. In cosmetics it is used in serums to hydrate the surface layer, and in aesthetic clinics as an injectable filler to shape the lips and facial contours.
Is hyaluronic acid safe in Estonia?
In moisturising serums, hyaluronic acid is completely safe for every skin type. As an injection, it is safe at Health Board-licensed aesthetic clinics and in a doctor's hands — always choose a licensed clinic and ask to see the doctor's credentials.
Where can I learn more about hyaluronic acid?
For moisturising creams, consult a cosmetologist at an Estonian beauty salon. For injections, see an aesthetic-medicine doctor at an aesthetic clinic, who will explain the expected result and any contraindications.
Related pages
This service in Estonia
Guides